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HISTOEY 



OF 



PORTAGE COUNTY, 



OHIO. 



Containing A History of the County, its Townships, Towns, 
Villages, Schools, Churches, Industries, etc.; Portraits of 
Early Settlers and Prominent Men; Biographies; 
History of the Northwest Territory; His- 
tory OF Ohio; Statistical and Mis- 
cellaneous Matter, ETC., ETC. 



ILLTJSTI^J^TEID. 



CHICAGO: 

WARNER, BEERS & CO 

1885. 



o 



<2. 



CHICAGO: ^ ») 

■ ^— y^" John Morris Company » 'j^ < 
*• ^ PRINTERS. Vv 



PREFACE. 



TN submitting the Histor}' of Portage County to the public, the publishers 
-■- trust that it will be received in that generous spirit which is gratified at 
honest and conscientious eftbrt. The impbrtance of rescuing from oblivion 
and preserving, in a permanent form, the pioneer annals of the county and 
its various local communities has been duly appreciated by its citizens, 
whose assistance has contributed materially to the success of the work. 

In the compilation of the many chapters it has been the earnest 
endeavor of our writers to disengage from the great mass of facts those 
which relate to the permanent forces of the county, or which indicate the 
most enduring featiu'es of its growth and prosperity. Free use was made 
of the State reports and county records, as well as of all reliable sources of 
information bearing on the history of this section of Ohio, such as Howe's 
"Historical Collections," Gen. Lucius V. Bierce's sketches of the first set- 
tlements on the Western Reserve, Christian Cackler's reminiscences of pio- 
neer times, the late John Harmon's recollections of the war of 1812, Reid's 
"Ohio in the War," and the early newspaper files so wisely preserved by 
Col. William Frazer, and now in possession of his son Homer C. Frazer, Esq. , 
of Ravenna, who kindly gave our historians free access to said files at all 
times. In every part of the county descendants of the pioneers were inter- 
viewed, and their recollections carefully sifted and compared. Private 
papers and family manuscripts have thus been drawn forth from their hiding 
places, and every effort made to glean from the husks of tradition the scat- 
tered grains of truth. 

For the convenience of its readers the book is divided into four parts: 
Part I contains a condensed history of the Northwest Territory. Part II, a 
history of the State of Ohio. Part III embraces the general history of 
Portage County, its townships, towns and villages. The general history 
of the county. Chapters I to XIII inclusive, was written by Mr. R, C. 
Brown, of Chicago, 111., and Chapters XIY to XXXIV inclusive were mostly 



iv PREFACE. 

compiled by Mr. J. E. Norris of the same city; while the complimentary 
sketches in Part IV were obtained by a corps of solicitors, and a copy of 
each sketch submitted for correction to the subject or his friends, on whom 
we have depended for accuracy. 

The publishers avail themselves of this opportunity to thank the county, 
township, town and village officials, the editors of the several newspapers? 
and the members of every profession and calling throughout the county 
who in any way assisted the historians in their labors, for their generous 
sympathy toward the enterprise. Special acknowledgments are due to 
Enos P. Brainerd, Esq., Homer C. Frazer, Esq., Samuel D. Harris, Esq., 
Hon. Marvin Kent and Dr. A. M. Sherman, all of whom rendered impor- 
tant aid to the general historian and his assistants in gathering authentic 
historical data. We place the volume in the hands of our patrons with the 
belief that it will be found a valuable contribution to local historical liter- 
ature. 

THE PUBLISHERS. 








CONTENTS. 



PAET I. 

HISTORY OF THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



PAGE. 

Geogiaiiliical I'osition 17 

Early Explorations 17 

Discovery of the Ohio 2G 

English Explorations and Settlements 28 



PAGE. 

Aiucrican Settlements 53 

Division of the Northwest Territory 58 

Tecumseh and tlicWarof 1S12 Gl 

Black Hawk and the Black Hawk War (11 



PART 11. 

HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 



History of Ohio ;... 7s 

French History 7G 

Ordinance of 1787, No. 32 87 

Comments upon the Ordinance of 1787, from the 

Statutes of Ohio. Edited by Salmon P. 

C'hase, and Published in the year 1833 91 

The War of 1812 107 

Banking Ill 

The Canal System 113 

Ohio Land Tracts 114 

Improvements 119 

State Boundaries 121 



Organization of Counties 122 

Description of Counties 122 

Early Events 122 

Governors of Ohio 143 

Ancient Works 157 

Some Genera! Characteristics 160 

Outline Geology of Ohio 1G2 

Ohio's Rank During the War of the Kebelliou... 165 
A Brief Mention of Prominent Oliio (ienerals... 177 

Some Discussed Subjects 172 

Conclusion isi 



PART III. 

HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 



OHAPTEPt I.— iNTROnucTORY — Organization — 

Area and Population 187-197 

Primitive Appearance of the Country — 
The Claims of Virginia and Connecticut— 
The Connecticut Western Keserve — Dona- 
tion of Fire Lands, and Sale of the Balance 
to the Connecticut Land Comi)any — Indian 
Titles Extinguished — Ordinance "of 1787— 
Arrival of the First Surveying Corps at 
Conueaut — The Reserve Surveyed into 
Townships— Trials and Sulferings of the 
Surveyors— Erection of .lett'erson and Trum- 
bull Counties — Organization of Franklin 
Township— Portage County Erected, and 
Selection of its Seat of Justice— First Elec- 
tion, and Organization of the County — 
Minutes of the First Meeting of the Com- 
missioners — Original Townships — Tax 
Levies and Collectors of 1808— First Year's 
Receipts and Expenditures — Changes in the 
AVestern Boundary Line— Present Bound- 
aries — Origin of the Name of the County — 
The Portage Path — Areas and Townships — 
Population Statistics. 

CHAPTER II.— Portage County Ninety 

Years Ago— Geology 198-217 

Portage County Ninety Years Ago — Tim- 
ber and Fruit-Bearing Trees and Vines — 
Roots and Herbage — Wild Animals, Birds 
and Reptiles — Big Hunts — General Topog- 
raphy, Streams and Lakes — Geology of 
Portage County — Surface Features and De- 
posits — Geological Structure — Coal Measures 



— Coal No. 1 — Coals Nos. 3 and 4 — Fire Cllay 
— Altitudes in Portage County above Lake 
Erie. 

CHAPTER III.— Archeology— Indian His- 
tory 217-228 

The Pre-llistoric Races — Mound-Builders 
— Their Great Anti()uity— Occupation of the 
Country — The Wonderful Monuments 
Which They Left Behind Them — Some Evi- 
dences of TheirEx-istence in Portage County 
- -The North American Indians — Their j->up- 
posed Origin— Brief Sketch of Them- In- 
dians of Portage County — The Great Trail — 
— The Indian Chiefs Bigson, Stignish and 
Big Cayuga— Extracts from the Reminis- 
cences of Christian Cackler of the Indians 
of this Section. 

CHAPTER IV.— Pioneers— First Settle- 

HENT.s 228-240 

The I'ioneers of Portage County — Their 
Heroic Perseverance and Privations— New 
England Transplanted on the Connecticut 
Western Reserve— The First Settlement 
Made Within the Limits of Portage County 
—First Settlers of Mantua, Ravenna, Auro- 
ra and Atwater Townships — Atwater Hall, 
the First White Child Born in the County- 
First Settlers of Palmyra, Dcerfield, Nelson, 
Rootstown, Randolph, Sutfield, Charles- 
town, Hiram, Franklin, Shalersville, Edin- 
burg, Windham, Paris, Brimtield, Freedom, 
Streetsboro and Garrettsville Townships — 
The Portage-Summit Pioneer Association. 



CONTENTS. 



PAGE. 

CHAPTER v.— Pioneer Days— Habits, Cus- 
toms, ETC 241-260 

Pioneer Days and Trials — Habitations of 
the First Settlers — Furniture, Food and 
Medicine^ — Habits, Labor and I)ress — Early 
Manners and Customs — Bees and Weddings 
— The Hominy lilock and Pioneer Mills — 
Prices of Store Goods and Produce — Items 
From an Old Cash Book — Mode of Livinfc — 
Churches and Schools — Period of the War 
of ]8r2^Prices After the War — First Crops 
Raised in the County — Agricultural Imple- 
ments of the Pioneers, and Subsequent Im- 
provements Made in Them — Pioneer Farm- 
ing — Cheese and Butter Statistics — First 
Stock Brought into the County — Stock Sta- 
tistics Since 1840— Statistics of Wheat, Corn, 
Oats and Hay— Total Valuation of I'roperly 
by Decades — Portage County Agricultural 
Societies — Portage County Horticultural 
Society. 

CHAPTER VI.— Militia— War of 1812 2G0-2S2 

First Military Organization on the West- 
ern Reserve— War of 1812 and First Call 
for Volunteers — John Harmon's Recollec- 
tions of the War — Second Regiment Ohio 
Militia — Capt. John Campbell's Company of 
Volunteers — Camp on Barrel Run — March 
to Cleveland, and Embarkation for Lower 
Sandusky — Description of the Trip and Ar- 
rival — Incidents at the Fort, and Sickness 
Among the Soldiers — Departure for the 
River Raisin — Hull's Surrender — Start for 
Maiden, and Arrival at That Point— Pa- 
roled Prisoners— Return Home of the Sick 
and Paroled Men — Deaths in the Command 
— Alarm Caused by the Surrender — Regi- 
mental Record of the Second Regiment — 
Response to a Call for Troops in 181-3. — Jlr. 
Harmon's Concluding Remarks— The In- 
habitants of Portage County Fear an Indian 
Invasion — Distresijing Incident of the War 
— Re-organization of the Militia— Muster 
Days and Sham Fights. 

CHAPTER VII.— Internal lMPROVEMENTS.282-297 
Internal Improvements— The Great In- 
dian Trail— Pioneer Roads of Portage Coun- 
ty — Mail Facilities and I^etter Postage — 
Stage Routes and Drirers — Canals— Early 
Canal Legislation— The Ohio Canal Com- 
menced and Completed— Pennsylvania A 
Ohio Canal — The Efforts Made to 
Have it Built— Its Construction and Com- 
pletion—First Boats Arrive at Ravenna- 
Subsequent Success of the Enterprise- 
Causes Which Led to its Abandonment— 
Railroads— Cleveland & Pittsburgh— Cleve- 
land A ]\Iahoning Valley— Atlantic ct Great 
AVestern— Cleveland, Yonngstown & Pitts- 
burgh — Connotton Vallev — Pittsliurgh, 
Cleveland & Toledo— The Proposed Clinton 
Air Line, and the General Railroad Facili- 
ties of the County. 

CHAPTER VIII.-Educational 207-309 

Education in Ohio— Lands (jranted for 
Educational Purposes — Commissioners of 
Schools and School Lands in 1822— The 
School Lands Sold and a School Fund Estab- 
lished — Pioneer Schools, Schoolhouses, 
Teachers and Books in Portage County- 
How Teachers were Employed and Paid— 
An Amusing Agreement— Growth of Edu- 
cation—Government and Progress of Schools 
Prior to 1851— Schools for Colored Youth 
Established — Reorganization of Schools 
Under the Laws of 1853— Present Govern- 
ment of Schools. 

CHAPTER IX.— Official, Political, etc..309-327 
Public Officers— Members of Congress- 
State Senators— Territorial and State Rep- 
resentatives — County Commissioners — 
Treasurers— Clerks— Recorders-Auditors- 
Sheritls — Coroners — Surveyors — Probate 
Judges— Seat of Justice and Public Build- 
ings — Prison Bounds- County Infirmary- 
Political Statistics of Portage County — First 



Election Held, with the Names of the Can- 
didates and Voters — Gubernatorial and 
Presidential Vote. 

CHAPTER X.— Judiciary— Medical 328-344 

The Judiciary — Organization of the Court 
of Common Pleas in Ohio, and its Subse- 
quent Changes — Pioneer Courts of Portage 
County — Sessions of 1808-09, and the Juries 
and Trials of Those Two Years^Anecdotes 
of Pioneer Justice in This County — Com- 
mon Pleas Judges — Associate Judges — Prose- 
cuting Attorneys — Riding the Circuit — I^io- 
ueer Resident and Visiting Lawyers — Brief 
Sketches of Leading IMembers of the Bench 
and Bar — Present Bar of Portage County — 
The Portage County Medical Association. 

CHAPTER XL— Noted Criminal Events..3 17-301 
The Most Noted Criminal Events in the 
History of Portage County — Trials and Sen- 
tences of the Culprits— The Alleged Crime 
of John McManus— The Murder of Mathews 
by Aunghst — The Muider of Cummings by 
Harris — The Murder of Catherine McKisson 
by Her r>rother-in-l.aw, David McKisson — 
The HeatbiuanMauslaugbterCase — Alanson 
Baldwin Stabbed to Death by His Nephew, 
Lemuel W. Price — Attempted Killing of 
Prentiss by Flower — The Shorts-Wilson 
Shooting— The Murder of John Rhodeu- 
baugh by Jack Cooper and Joel Beery — 
Harriet Musson Murdered by Wilson S. 
• Roof — Shooting of Alfred L. Ilarris by His 
Father — The "Kelso-Montague Case — The 
Newell-Roberts Atfair. 

CHAPTER XII.— The Press 362-372 

The Newspapers of the Past and Present 
— Ravenna l'a|)ers — Western Cotirier and the 
Western Public A<h:ertiser — Ohio Star — Walch- 
miiTi^ /lackei/e Democrat — Western Reserve 
Cahinet and Fdiiiity Visitor — Plain Dealer — 
Porlai/R Sentinel — Portage Count ii Whig, and 
Home Companion and Whi(t — Purtai/i- Couitty 
Democrat, Jiepuldican-Democral, and Ravenna 
Republican — Independent Press and Reformer 
— Hickory Hail and Fusion T/iresher — Arfjus 
— Democratic Press — Porlage County Rejiul>- 
lican — ^Kent Newspapers — Proposed Frunklin 
Gazette — The Omnium Gatherum and its 
Successors: Tlie Family Visitor, Literary 
Casket, Cuyalioi/a. Reporter, Satuniaij Reriew. 
Commercial Bulletin, Saturday llidhtin, and 
Kent Saturday lUdletin — Kent iVeim of 1807 — 
Present Kent Aews — Garrettsville News- 
papers — Garrettsville 3IontIdy Review — Gar- 
rettsville Journal — Home Bazar — Atwater 
Newspapers — Sharp Sickle — Atwater News. 

CHAPTER XIII.— War of the Rebeli.ion..373-391 
Portage County in tlio Rebellion —The 
Patriotic Feeling of Her People at the Be- 
ginning of the Great Struggle for National 
Life— Meetings Held to Denounce Treason 
and to Support the Government— Enroll- 
ment of Volunteers Under the President's 
First Call, and Their Departure for Camp 
Taylor — Good Work of the Relief Commit- 
tees, and Generosity of the Citizens— The 
Number of Men Sent into the War by Each 
Township, and the Commands in Which 
They Served— Official Roster of Commis- 
sioned Officers from this County— Amount 
of Money Annually I^xpended for War Pur- 
poses by Portage County from 1861 to 1805 
— Closing Scenes of the War— Public I)em- 
onstrations of Great Joy Over its Glorious 
Termination— The Rejoicings of the People 
Suddenly Turned to (irief by the Assassin- 
ation of President Lincoln. 

CHAPTER XIV.— Atwater Township 392-399 

Arrival of Atwater and Others— Early 
Privations— Birth of First Child— Another 
Lone Settler — Organization — Marriages and 
Deaths— Some Old and New Things— An 
Ancient Musket — Early Churches and 
Preachers — Schools — Newspapers— Indus- 
tries, etc. — Officers and Statistics. 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER XV.— Aurora Township 400-405 

Ebenezer Sheldon— First Legal Business 
— A Lonely Couple— A Moilel Pioneer Wile 
— Other Settlers— Early Hardships— Organi- 
zation — The Methodist Circuit Pvider— l-'irst 
Church and SchDols— First Birth and Death 
and Other First Things — Hunters and Hunt- 
ing Stories— Early Facts— A Small Meeting 
with Large Results — Churches and Schools 
— Business, etc. — Statistics. 
CHAPTER XVL— Brimfield Township.. ..40.5-411 
A Many-named Township— Equalizing 
Lands — Explorers and Settlers — Location of 
tiie Early Pioneers — Organization and Pol- 
itics — Three Clas.ses of First Events — Educa- 
tion and Religion — Business Beginnings — 
Large Shippers — Resources — Statistics. 
CHAPTER XVII. — CiiARLESTOWN Town- 
ship 412-415 

A Hunter Squatter — First Permanent Set- 
tler—The Blandlbrd & Granville Co.— Post- 
Bellum Settlers — Fifty-six in Four Families 
— Leading First Events — First Birth and 
Marriage — First Mills— Schools and ( hurches 
— Rev. Caleb Pitkin — Organization — Offi- 
cers, Business, etc. 
CHAPTER XVIIL— Deekfield Town,ship.416-423 
Breaking First Ground — Settlers of ISOO 
— The Elys, Days and Divers — A Trip on the 
Ma-um-ing — Hardships and Privations — 
Great Increase — First Military Company — 
After the Organization — A Kcmarkahle 
Family — Some Early Facts — Grant's Tan- 
nery — Shooting of Diver — Hunters and 
Hunting — Early I'reachers and Churches — 
Schools, Business and .Statistics. 

CHAPTER XIX.— Edinbi-rg Township 424-431 

Early Settlement — Abbott and Chapman 
— Other Pioneers — Rial JIcArthur and R. 
M. JIart — Some Noted Names — Organization 
and Officers — The Champion llunt — Old 
Time Adventures, Facts and Social JCvents — 
Churches and Schools — Edinbnrg Center — 
]?usiness, Resources and Statistics. 
CHAPTER XX.— Franklin Township and 

Kent 431-452 

First Settlement — The Haymakers — A 
Primitive Mill— Early I'acts and Settlers — 
Contest for the County Seat — Low I'rice of 
Produce — First Burying Ground — Rceds- 
bury — Organization — First Law Suit — 
Cackler's (ieese — Important Primitive In- 
dustries — Fine Water-Power — The Manu- 
facture of Gla.ss — The Twin Villages in 1.S27 — 
The Rival Taverns — Early Merchants, etc., 
etc. — Progress of Improvement — y^enas 
Kent — Franklin Land Company — The Ca- 
nal Outrage — Franklin & Warren Railroad 
— Incorporation — Increase of Business — 
Standing Rock Cemetery — Names, Ages 
and Iieaths of Some Early Settlers — .lohn 
Brown — Brady's Leap — Primitive Schools 
and Religion — Sketches of the Churches- 
Free and Accepted Masons — Odd Fellowship 
— other Orders and Societies. 

CHAPTER XXL— Freedom Township 452-459 

Before the Organization — Charles H. 
Paine, the First Settler— A Lone Pioneer — 
More Arrivals— First Election — A Thought- 
ful Veteran— Paul Larkcom— A Number of 
First Things— Churches and Schools- Hor- 
ace Greeley's Uncle — The Army Hunt— Sad 
Death — Sagacity of a Dog— Business and Sta- 
tistics. 
CHAPTER XXII.— Garrettsville To^VN- 

ship 459-400 

Arrival of Col. John Garrett— The First 
Mill— Slow Growth— The Dual (iovernment 
— Business, Manufacturing, etc. — The Fair 
—Churches— Union Schools— Masonic Bo- 
dies—Odd Fellowship— Young Meji's Temper- 
ance Council — ( cood Templars — Statistics. 

CHAP'I'Fi; XXTIL— HiKAM Township 460-475 

Who was the First Settler .'—Honey and 
Williams— Mason and Tilden— Other Perma- 



PAOE. 

nent Settlers — The Youngs,Ben jamin Hinck- 
ley and Samuel Udall— Many First Events — 
Churches and Schools — Hiram College — 
President James A. Garfield — Organization 
and Origin of Name— The Mormons — Tar- 
ring and Feathering Smith and Rigdon — 
Rich Land, Beautiful Location and Business. 

CHAPTER XXIV.— Mantua Township 47.5-485 

First Settler of Portage County — First 
Wheat — Amzi Atwater — Elias Harmon — 
Other Settlers — Organization — First Birth, 
Marriage and Death — Primitive Industries 
— A Peculiar Character — Another Queer 
One — Judge Atwater's Bear Fight -( 'hurches 
andSchools— Business, Soil, etc.— Mantua Sta- 
tion — ^Mantua Corners — Masonry — Statistics. 

CHAPTER XXV.— Nelson Township 480-494 

Coming of the Pioneers — The Mills Broth- 
ers — Two Lonesome Families — Important 

Arrivals — Heads of Families in 1815 — First 

Buildings — First Arrivals and Departui-es^^^"^ 
Churches and Schools — Taverns, Mills and 
Roads — Fiat Juslilia, Ruat Ccelum. — Exploits 
of Capt. Mills — Summary— Township Offi- 
cers — The Ledges — Statistics. 

CHAPTER XXVL— Palmyra Township 495-505 

The Vanguard — Pioneer Daniels — Capt. 
Baldwin, Truman Gilbert, Artemus Rug- 
gles— The (ireat Trail — A Noted Character 
— Pioneer Dentistry— A Famous Trapper — 
An Irate F. F. V. — "Moses Jabe" Gilbert, 
the Contractor — Numerous First Events — 
Preacher and Churches — Schools and Teach- 
ers — Organization — Palmyra Center — Dia- 
mond — Coal Banks — Business, Societies and 
Statistics. 

CHAPTER XXVIL— Paris Township 505-508 

Good Land with a Bad Name — Slow Set- 
tlement— Organization— Ch u r c h e s and 
Schools — Some First Events — Notable Hap- 
penings — McClintocksburg and Newport — 
Officers, Business, Resources and Statistics. 
CHAPTER XXVIII.— Randolph TowNsniP.511-518 
First Two Settlers — Bela Hubbard and 
Salmon Ward — The Tide Flows On — Ward's 
Four Trips — Oliver Dickinson — First Deaths, 
Births and .Alarriages — Initial Industries — 
A Few Early Facts— Organization and Offi- 
cers — Churches and School.s— Old and New 
Incidents — The Hubbard Squash — Randolph 
Fair — Underground Railroad— Soil, Streams 
and Statistics. 
CHAPTER XXIX.— Ravenna Township and 

City 518-544 

Original Proprietors — The Pioneers — First 
Cabin — Benjamin Tappan — First Birth and 
Death— Primitive Mills— The Village Site in 
ISOG — A Threshing Machine — Laying Out of 
the Village— First I'.uilding— Old Burying 
Ground — .Schools and Scholars — First Court 
House and Jail— Recipe for Clearing off 
Stumps— Two Old Structures — An Incident 
of 1812 — Pen Picture of Primitive Ravenna 
— John Brown's l^'ather — Jesse (irant's Tan- 
nery — Some Noted Settlers — Some Early 
Facts— Two Notable Raisings— First Sun- 
day-School — Sundry Items — Early Merch- 
ants — A School Needed— First School Meet- 
ing — Growth of the City— Incorporation — 
Industries— Banks and Banker.s — Pioneer 
Preachers on Religion — First ^Congregation- 
al Church, and Rev. C. B. Storrs- Methodist 
Episcopal Church— Disciples Church— Uni- 
versalist Church — Church of the Immacu- 
late Conception— Episcopal Church— Secret 
and other Societies— Statistics. 
CHAPTER XXX. — Rootstown Township..544-552 
The First Cabin— David Root— A Sad 
Death— First Wheat Crop- Nathan Muzzy— 
A Distillery— An Alien Justice— First Birth 
— The Chapmans— First Frame Structure- 
Mother Ward— The Fir.st Criminal— Primi- 
tive Schools— The Old Grave-yard— Early 
Churches— Organ ization and Officers— Noted 
Events— Soil, Products and Statistics. 



CONTENTS. 



PAGE. 

CHAPTER XXXI.— Shaleesville Town- 
ship 552-557 

A Pioneer l-'amily— Early Privations- 
Some O'ther Settlers— Three Self-made Men 
—Silas Crocker, Sylvester Beecher, David 
Mcintosh — Organization— Births, Deaths 
and Marria^'cs— Muzzy and His Mill— I'irst 
Industries— Schools and Churches-War llee- 
ord— Incidents and Facts— An Aged Land- 
Mark— Business— Resources-Statistics. 



CHAPTER XXXII. — Streetsboeo Town- 
ship 558- 

Rapid Settlement — Some AVell-known 
Names— Cleveland & Wellsville Turnpike- 
Organization— No Paupers Wanted— I^arly 
Liberality and Enterprise— A Few First 
Events— Churches and Schools— Business, 
Officers, etc.— Statistics. 



CHAPTER X X X ITI.—SuFFiELn TowNsniP..563-5G7 
A Fine T(i\vnsliip--One Lonely Settler- 
Benjamin Italdwiii, and the "Baldwin" 
Apple— Other Settlers— Honest .John Fritch 
—A Noted Hunter— Two Organizations— A 
"Flustrated" Justice— First Mills, Stores, 
etc. — Coming of the Germans — First 
Churches and Schools— First Birth and 
Death— Mogadore—Suffleld Center- A Du- 
plex Town, etc.— Statistics, etc.— Business, 
Resources and Oiiicers. 
CHAPTER XXXIV.— WiNniiAM TowNSniP..5r)7-574 
The Becket Land Company— The March 
Westward— Some ICaily Settlors— Organiza- 
tion and Officers — ( :hurches and I're.achors — 
Initial Events of Interest— Primitive Edu- 
cators—Building and Enterprise— Business 
— Grand Array— Township Otticers— Statis- 
tics. 



PAKT lY. 

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 



Atwater Township 

Aurora Township 

Brimlield Township 

Charlestown Township 

Deerlicld Township 

Edinlmi^ Township 

Franklin Township 

Freedom /Township '1° 

(larrettsvillo Township 723 

Hiram Township 741 

Mantua Township 7o2 



577 
593 
601 
017 
G21 
r.:'.7 
R58 



Nelson Township ;^'l 

I'almyra Towushij) 777 

Paris Township 7S2 

Randolph Township 783 

Ravenna Township S09 

Uootstown Township 862 

Shalersville Township 878 

Streetshoro Township 885 

Suflield Township ^^^ 

Windham Township 911 



PORTRAITS. 



... 407 
... 541) 
.... 418 
... 49S 
... 499 
,... 529 



Adams, Horace, SufBeld Township 

Atwood, .Toshua, Freedom Towusliip 

Bloomfield, Lewis M.. Kandolph Townshii 

Boszor, Henry, Brimtield Township 

Boszor, Sarah N., Brimlield Township 

Brainerd, E. P., Ravenna Township 

Carlton, Peter, Mantua Township 376 

Carlton, Clarissa, Mantua Township 377 

Clapp, Selali S., l''ranklin Township 640 

Clapp, Mrs. Marv, Franklin Township 641 

Crocker, Silas, Siuilorsville Township 334 

f^rocker, Mrs. Cynthia, Slialersvillo Township... 335 

Davidson, .lames F., Brimlield Township 600 

Day, Luther, Ravenna Township 81 

Dewey, George, Franklin Township 438 

Dunn, James, Garrettsville 233 

Earl, Ebenezer W., Windham Township 682 

Eggleston, i ien. Nelson, Aurora Township 509 

Foster, Jonathan, Mantua Township 254 

Fowler, Heujamin, Nelson Township 540 

Fuller, C. C, Nelson Township 203 

Gartield, Jaraes A 47 

Garfield, Mrs. Lucrelia R 213 

Gibbs, Mason, Deevllcld Township 609 

Gorby, Thomas, Kandolpli 'I'owiiship 314 

Hart, Reuben, Ihimlield I'owiisliip 569 

Hartzell, John, Deerlield Township 662 

Hawley, E., Paris Township 651 

Haymaker, J. D., Franklin Township 323 

Hill, William S., Streetshoro Township 467 

Jennings, P. U., Mantua Township 387 

Kent, Marvin, Franklin Township 183 



Kent, Zenas, Franklin Township 

King, Joseph D., Ravenna Township 

Larkcoin, A. C, Freedom Township 

Lyman, Judge Darius, Ravenna Township- 
Norton, James, Garrettsville 

Ober. R. H., (iarret-tsvillo 

Pannelee, Luther II., Franklin Township... 

Parsons, Edward, 15rimfield Township 

Paulus, William, Suffield Township 

Plum, Frederick, Streetshoro Township., 



Powers, Dr. A. M., Rootstown Township.. 
Price, Dr. Joseph, Randolph Township 



Ray, Col. C. H., Mantua Township. 

Reed, C. A., Ravenna Township 

Russel, Luther, Streetshoro Township 

Sawyer, Oliver, Brimlield Township 

Sherman, Dr. A. M.. Franklin Township 

Smith, E. ("., Garrettsville 

Spencer, Oliver, Aurora Township 

Stilwell, Barnet, Brimtield Township 

Stratton, J. B., Franklin Township 

Strickland, Willis, Ravenna Township 

Thompson, R. J., Ravenna Township 

Tidball, Dr. A.H., Garrettsville 

Waggoner, Dr. Joseph, Ravenna Township 

Webb, James, Freedom Township 

Wilson, Samuel, Suffield Township 

AVoodard, James, Franklin Township 

Woodbridge, Mrs. INlary A., Ravenna Township. 

Woodworth, E. S., Windham Township 

Woodworth, Thomas J., Windham Township.... 



115 
520 
731 
149 
203 
427 
303 
589 
398 
487 
620 
345 
691 
243 
478 
722 
223 
283 
711 
580 
029 
365 
671 
356 
294 
560 
702 
458 
. 273 
447 
, 194 



MISCELLANEOUS. 



^lap of Portage County 13 

Population of the Uiiiied States 69 

Area of the United States 69 

Area of the Principal Countries in the World... 09 



Population of Principal Countries in the World. 69 

Population of Ohio by Counties 70 

List of Ohio's Governors 72 

Population of Portage County by Townships 197 



...^ 



i /^ p @ w 









O H X Q 




ff.5 W 



/?.Q W 



^.7 w. 



/?.6 W. 



PART I. 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



The ITorthwest Territory. 



GEOGRAPHICAL POSITION. 

When the Northwestern Territory was ceded to the United States 
by Virginia in 1784, it embraced only the territory lying between the 
Ohio and the Mississippi Rivers, and north to the northern limits of the 
United States. It coincided with the area now embraced in the States 
of Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin, and that portion of 
Minnesota lying on the east side of the Mississippi River. The United 
States itself at that period extended no farther west than the Mississippi 
River ; but by the purchase of Louisiana in 1803, the western boundary 
of the United States was extended to the Rocky Mountains and the 
Northern Pacific Ocean. The new territory thus added to the National 
domain, and subsequently opened to settlement, has been called the 
" New Northwest," in contradistinction from the old " Northwestern 
Territory." 

In comparison with the old Northwest this is a territory of vast, 
magnitude. It includes an area of 1,887,850 square miles ; being greater 
in extent than the united areas of all the Middle and Southern States, 
including Texas. Out of this magnificent territory have been erected 
eleven sovereign States and eight Territories, with an aggregate popula- 
tion, at the present time, of 18,000,000 inhabitants, or nearly one-third of 
the entire population of the United States. 

Its lakes are fresh-water seas, and the larger rivers of the continent 
flow for a thousand miles through its rich alluvial valleys and far- 
stretching prairies, more acres of which are arable and productive of the 
highest percentage of the cereals than of any other area of like extent 
on the globe. 

For the last twenty years the increase of population in the North- 
west has been about as three to one in any other portion of the United 
States. 

EARLY EXPLORATIONS. 

In the year 1541, DeSoto first saw the Great West in the New 
World. He, however, penetrated no farther north than the 35th parallel 

17 



18 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

of latitude. The expedition resulted in his death and that of more than 
half his army, the remainder of whom found 'their way to Cuba, thence 
to Spain, in a famished and demoralized condition. DeSoto founded no 
settlements, produced no results, and left no traces, unless it were that 
he awakened the hostility of the red man against the white man, and 
disheartened such as might desire to follow up the career of discovery 
for better purposes. The French nation were eager and ready to seize 
upon any news from this extensive domain, and were the first to profit by 
DeSoto's defeat. Yet it was more than a century before any adventurer 
took advantage of these discoveries. 

In 1616, four years before the pilgrims " moored their bark on the 
wild New England shore," Le Caron, a French Franciscan, had pene- 
trated through the Iroquois and Wyandots (Hurons) to the streams which 
run into Lake Huron ; and in 1634, two Jesuit missionaries founded the 
first mission among the lake tribes. It was just one hundred years from 
the discovery of the Mississippi by DeSoto (1541) until the Canadian 
envoys met the savage nations of the Northwest at the Falls of St. Mary, 
below the outlet of Lake Superior. This visit led to no permanent 
result ; yet it was not until 1659 that any of the adventurous fur traders 
attempted to spend a Winter in the frozen wilds about the great lakes, 
nor was it until 1660 that a station was established upon their borders by 
Mesnard, who perished in the woods a few months after. In 1665, Claude 
Allouez built the earliest lasting habitation of the white man among the 
Indians of the Northwest. In 1668, Claude Dablon and James Marquette 
founded the mission of Sault Ste. Marie at the Falls of St. Mary, and two 
years afterward, Nicholas Perrot, as agent for M. Talon, Governor Gen- 
eral of Canada, explored Lake Illinois (Michigan) as far south as the 
present City of Chicago, and invited the Indian nations to meet him at a 
grand council at Sault Ste. Marie the following Spring, where they were 
taken under the protection of the king, and formal possession was taken 
of the Northwest. This same year Marquette established a mission at 
Point St. Ignatius, where was founded the old town of Michillimackinac. 

During M. Talon's explorations and Marquette's residence at St. 
Ignatius, they learned of a great river away to the west, and fancied — 
as all others did then — that upon its fertile banks whole tribes of God's 
children resided, to whom the sound of the Gospel had never come. 
Filled with a wish to go and preach to them, and in compliance with a 
request of M. Talon, who earnestly desired to extend the domain of his 
king, and to ascertain whether the river flowed into the Gulf of Mexico 
or the Pacific Ocean, Marquette with Joliet, as commander of the expe- 
dition, prepared for the undertaking. 

On the 13th of May, 1673, the explorers, accompanied by five assist- 



THE NOKTHWEST TERRITORY. 19 

ant French Canadians, set out from Mackinaw on their daring voyage of 
discovery. The Indians, who gathered to witness their departure, were 
astonished at the boldness of the undertaking, and endeavored to dissuade 
them from their purpose by representing the tribes on the Mississippi as 
exceedingly savage and cruel, and the river itself as full of all sorts of 
frightful monsters ready to swallow them and their canoes together. But, 
nothing daunted by these terrific descriptions, Marquette told them he 
was willing not only to encounter all the perils of the unknown region 
they were about to explore, but to lay down his life in a cause in which 
the salvation of souls was involved ; and having prayed together they 
separated. Coasting along the northern shore of Lake Michigan, the 
adventurers entered Green Bay, and passed thence up the Fox River and 
Lake Winnebago to a village of the Miamis and Kickapoos. Here Mar- 
quette was delighted to find a beautiful cross planted in the middle of the 
town, ornamented with white skins, red girdles and bows and arrows, 
which these good people had offered to the Great Manitou, or God, to 
thank him for the pity he had bestowed on them during the Winter in 
giving them an abundantf " chase." This was the farthest outpost to 
which Dablon and Allouez had extended their missionary labors the 
year previous. Here Marquette drank mineral waters and was instructed 
in the secret of a root which cures the bite of the venomous rattlesnake. 
He assembled the chiefs and old men of the village, and, pointing to 
Joliet, said : " My friend is an envoy of France, to discover new coun- 
tries, and I am an ambassador from God to enlighten them with the truths 
of the Gospel." Two Miami guides were here furnished to conduct them 
to the Wisconsin River, and they set out from the Indian village on 
the 10th of June, amidst a great crowd of natives who had assembled to 
witness their departure into a region where no white man had ever yet 
ventured. The guides, having conducted them across the portage, 
returned. The explorers launched their canoes upon the Wisconsin, 
which they descended to the Mississippi and proceeded down its unknown 
waters. What emotions must have swelled their breasts as they struck 
out into the broadening current and became conscious that they were 
now upon the bosom of the Father of Waters. The mystery was about 
to be lifted from the long-sought river. The scenery in that locality is 
beautiful, and on that delightful seventeenth of June, must have been 
clad in all its primeval loveliness as it had been adorned by the hand of 
Nature. Drifting rapidly, it is said that the bold bluffs on either hand 
" reminded them of the castled shores of their own beautiful rivers of 
France." By-and-by, as they drifted along, great herds of buffalo 
appeared on the banks. On going to the heads of the valley they could 
see a country of the greatest beauty and fertility, apparently destitute of 



20 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

inhabitants, yet presenting the appearance of extensive manors, under 
the fastidious cultivation of lordly proprietors. 

On June 25, they went ashore and found some fresh traces of men 
upon the sand, and a path which led to the prairie. The men remained in 
the boat, and Marquette and Joliet followed the path till they discovered a 
village on the banks of a river, and two other villages on a hill, within a 
half league of the first, inhabited by Indians. They were received most 
hospitably by these natives, who had never before seen a white person. 
After remaining a few days they re-embarked and descended the river to 
about latitude 33°, where they found a village of the Arkansas, and being 
satisfied that the river flowed into the Gulf of Mexico, turned their coarse 
up the river, and ascending the stream to the mouth of the Illinois, 
rowed up that stream to its source and procured guides from that point 
to the lakes. " Nowhere on this journey," says Marquette, " did we see 
such grounds, meadows, woods, stags, buffaloes, deer, wildcats, bustards, 
swans, ducks, parroquets, and even beavers, as on the Illinois River." 
The party, without loss or injury, reached Green Bay in September, and 
reported their discovery — one of the most important of the age, but of 
which no record was preserved save Marquette's, Joliet losing his by 
the upsetting of his canoe on his way to Quebec. Afterward Marquette 
returned to the Illinois Indians by their request, and ministered to them 
until 1675. On the 18th of May, in that year, as he was passing the 
mouth of a stream — going with his boatmen up Lake Michigan — he asked 
to land at its mouth and celebrate Mass. Leaving his men with the canoe, 
he retired a short distance and began his devotions. As much time 
passed and he did not return, his men went in search of him, and found 
him upon his knees, dead. He had peacefully passed away while at 
prayer. He was buried at this spot. Charlevoix, who visited the place 
fifty years after, found the waters had retreated from the grave, leaving 
the beloved missionary to repose in peace. The river has since been 
called Marquette. 

While Marquette and his companions were pursuing their labors in 
the West, two men, differing widely from him and each other, were pre- 
paring to follow in his footsteps and perfect the discoveries so well begun 
by him. These were Robert de LaSalle and Louis Hennepin. 

After LaSalle 's return from the discovery of the Ohio River (see 
the narrative elsewhere), he established himself again among the French 
trading posts in Canada. Here he mused long upon the pet project of 
those ages — a short way to China and the East, and was busily planning an 
expedition up the great lakes, and so across the continent to the Pacific, 
when Marquette returned from the Mississippi. At once the vigorous mind 
of LaSalle received from his and his companions' stories the idea that by fol- 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 21 

lowing the Great River northward, or by turning up some of the numerous 
western tributaries, the object could easily be gained. He applied to 
Frontenac, Governor General of Canada, and laid before him the plan, 
dim but gigantic. Frontenac entered warmly into his plans, and saw that 
LaSalle's idea to connect the great lakes by a chain of forts with the Gulf 
of Mexico would bind the country so wonderfully together, give un- 
measured power to France, and glory to himself, under whose adminis- 
tration he earnestly hoped all would be realized. 

LaSalle now repaired to France, laid his plans before the King, who 
warmly approved of them, and made him a Chevalier. He also received 
from all the noblemen the warmest wishes for his success. The Chev- 
alier returned to Canada, and busily entered upon his work. He at 
once rebuilt Fort Frontenac and constructed the first ship to sail on 
these fresh-water seas. On the 7th of August, 1679, having been joined 
by Hennepin, he began his voyage in the Griffin up Lake Erie. He 
passed over this lake, through the straits beyond, up Lake St. Clair and 
into Huron. In this lake they encountered heavy storms. They were 
some time at Michillimackinac, where LaSalle founded a fort, and passed 
on to Green Bay, the " Bale des Puans " of the French, where he found 
a large quantity of furs collected for him. He loaded the Griffin with 
these, and placing her under the care of a pilot and fourteen sailors, 
started her on her return voyage. The vessel was never afterward heard 
of. He remained about these parts until early in the Winter, when, hear- 
ing nothing from the Griffin, he collected all the men — thirty working 
men and three monks — and started again upon his great undertaking. 

By a short portage they passed to the Illinois or Kankakee, called by 
the Indians, " Theakeke," wolf^ because of the tribes of Indians called 
by that name, commonly known as the Mahingans, dwelling there. The 
French pronounced it Kiakiki, which became corrupted to Kankakee. 
*' Falling down the said river by easy journeys, the better to observe the 
country," about the last of December they reached a village of the Illi- 
nois Indians, containing some five hundred cabins, but at that moment 
no inhabitants. The Sieur de LaSalle being in want of some breadstuffs, 
took advantage of the absence of the Indians to help himself to a suffi- 
ciency of maize, large quantities of which he found concealed in holes 
under the wigwams. This village was situated near the present village 
of Utica in LaSalle County, Illinois. The corn being securely stored, 
the voyagers again betook themselves to the stream, and toward evening, 
on the 4th day of January, 1680, they came into a lake which must have 
been the lake of Peoria. This was called by the Indians Pim-i-te-tvi, that 
is, a place where there are rtiany fat beasts. Here the natives were met 
with in large numbers, but they were gentle and kind, and having spent 



22 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

some time with them, LaSalle determined to erect another fort in that 
place, for he had heard rumors that some of the adjoining tribes were 
trying to disturb the good feeling which existed, and some of his men 
were disposed to complain, owing to the hardships and perils of the travel. 
He called this fort " Crevecoeur " (broken-heart), a name expressive of the 
very natural sorrow and anxiety which the pretty certain loss of his ship. 
Griffin, and his consequent impoverishment, the danger of hostility on the 
part of the Indians, and of mutiny among his own men, might well cause 
him. His fears were not entirely groundless. At one time poison was 
placed in his food, but fortunately was discovered. 

While building this fort, the Winter wore away, the prairies began to 
look green, and LaSalle, despairing of any reinforcements, concluded to 
return to Canada, raise new means and new men, and embark anew in 
the enterprise. For this purpose he made Hennepin the leader of a party 
to explore the head waters of the Mississippi, and he set out on his jour- 
ney. This journey was accomplished with the aid of a few persons, and 
was successfully made, though over an almost unknown route, and in a 
bad season of the year. He safely reached Canada, and set out again for 
the object of his search. 

Hennepin and his party left Fort Crevecoeur on the last of February, 
1680. When LaSalle reached this place on his return expedition, he 
found the fort entirely deserted, and he was obliged to return again to 
Canada. He embarked the third time, and succeeded. Seven days after 
leaving the fort, Hennepin reached the Mississippi, and paddling up the 
icy stream as best he could, reached no higher than the Wisconsin River 
by the 11th of April. Here he and his followers were taken prisoners by a 
band of Northern Indians, who treated them with great kindness. Hen- 
nepin's comrades were Anthony Auguel and Michael Ako. On this voy- 
age they found several beautiful lakes, and "saw some charming prairies." 
Their captors were the Isaute or Sauteurs, Chippewas, a tribe of the Sioux 
nation, who took them up the river until about the first of May when 
they reached some falls, which Hennepin christened Falls of St. Anthony 
in honor of his patron saint. Here they took the land, and traveling 
nearly two hundred miles to the northwest, brought them to their villages* 
Here they were kept about three months, were treated kindly by their 
captors, and at the end of that time, were met by a band of Frenchmen, 
headed by one Sieur de Luth, who, in pursuit of trade and game, had pene- 
trated thus far by the route of Lake Superior ; and with these fellow- 
countrymen Hennepin and his companions were allowed to return to the 
borders of civilized life in November, 1680, just after LaSalle had 
returned to the wilderness on his second trip. Hennepin soon after went 
to France, where he published an account of his adventures. 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 23 

The Mississippi was first discovered by De Soto in April, 1541, in his 
vain endeavor to find gold and precious gems. In the following Spring, 
De Soto, weary with hope long deferred, and worn out with his wander- 
ings, fell a victim to disease, and on the 21st of May, died. His followers, 
reduced by fatigue and disease to less than three hundred men, wandered 
about the country nearly a year, in the vain endeavor to rescue them- 
selves by land, and finally constructed seven small vessels, called brig- 
antines, in which they embarked, and descending the river, supposing it 
would lead them to the sea, in July they came to the sea (Gulf of 
Mexico), and by September reached the Island of Cuba. 

They were the first to see the great outlet of the Mississippi ; but, 
being so weary and discouraged, made no attempt to claim the country, 
and hardly had an intelligent idea of what they had passed through. 

To La Salle, the intrepid explorer, belongs the honor of giving the 
first account of the mouths of the river. His great desire was to possess 
this entire country for his king, and in January, 1682, he and his band of 
explorers left the shores of Lake Michigan on their third attempt, crossed 
the Portage, passed down the Illinois River, and on the 6th of February 
reached the banks of the Mississippi. 

On the 13th they commenced their downward course, which they 
pursued with but one interruption, until upon the 6th of March they dis- 
covered the three great passages by which the river discharges its waters 
into the gulf. La Salle thus narrates the event : 

" We landed on the bank of the most western channel, about three 
leagues (nine miles) from its mouth. On the seventh, M. de La Salle 
went to reconnoiter the shore of the neighboring sea, and M. de Tonti 
meanwhile examined the great middle channel. They found the main 
outlets beautiful, large and deep. On the eighth, we reascended the 
river, a little above its confluence with the sea, to find a dry place beyond 
the reach of inundations. The elevation of the North Pole was here 
about twenty-seven degrees. Here we prepared a column and a cross, 
and to the column were affixed the arms of France with this inscription : 

"Louis Le Grand, Roi de France et de Navarre, regne ; Le neuvleme April, 1682." 

The whole party, under arms, chanted the Te Deum, and then, after 
a salute and cries of " Vive le Roi,'" the column was erected by M. de 
La Salle, who, standing near it, proclaimed in a loud voice the authority 
of the King of France. La Salle returned and laid the foundations of the 
Mississippi settlements in Illinois ; thence he proceeded to France, where 
another expedition was fitted out, of which he was commander, and in 
two succeeding voyages failed to find the outlet of the river by sailing 



24 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

along the shore of the gulf. On the third voyage he was killed, through 
the treachery of his followers, and the object of his expeditions was not 
accomplished until 1699, when D'Iberville, under the authority of the 
crown, discovered, on the second of March, by way of the sea, the mouth 
of the " Hidden River." This majestic stream was called by the natives 
" Malhouchia,^^ and by the Spaniards, " la Palissade,^^ from the great 
number of trees about its mouth. After traversing the several outlets, 
and satisfying himself as to its certainty, he erected a fort near its western 
outlet, and returned to France. 

An avenue of trade was now opened out which was fully improved. In 
1718, New Orleans was laid out and settled by some European colonists. In 
1762, the colony was made over to Spain, to be regained by France under 
the consulate of Napoleon. In 1803, it was purchased by the United 
States for the sum of fifteen million dollars, and the territory of Louisiana 
and commerce of the Mississippi River came under the charge of the 
United States. Although La Salle's labors ended in defeat and death, 
he had not worked and suffered in vain. He had thrown open to France 
and the world an immense and most valuable country ; had established 
several ports, and laid the foundations of more than one settlement there. 
" Peoria, Kaskaskia and Cahokia, are to this day monuments of LaSalle's 
labors ; for, though he had founded neither of them (unless Peoria, 
which was built nearly upon the site of Fort Crevecceur,) it was by those 
whom he led into the West that these places were peopled and civilized. 
He was, if not the discoverer, the first settler of the Mississippi Valley, 
and as such deserves to be known and honored." 

The French early improved the opening made for them. Before the 
year 1698, the Rev. Father Gravier began a mission among the Illinois, 
and founded Kaskaskia. For some time this was merely a missionary 
station, where none but natives resided, it being one of three such vil- 
lages, the other two being Cahokia and Peoria. What is known of these 
missions is learned from a letter written by Father Gabriel Marest, dated 
*' Aux Cascaskias, autrementdit de I'lmmaculate Conception de la Sainte 
Vierge, le 9 Novembre, 1712." Soon after the founding of Kaskaskia, 
the missionary, Pinet, gathered a flock at Cahokia, while Peoria arose 
near the ruins of Fort Crevecceur. This must have been about the year 
1700. The post at Vincennes on the Oubache river, (pronounced Wa-ba, 
meaning summer cloud moving siviftlyC) was established in 1702, according 
to the best authorities.* It is altogether probable that on LaSalle's last 

* There Is considerable dispute about tliis date, some asserting it was founded as late as 1742. When the 
new court house at Vincennes was erected, all authorities on the subject were carefully examined, and 1703 fixed 
upon as the correct date. It was accordingly engraved on the corner-stone of the court house. 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY 25 

trip he established the stations at Kaskaskia and Cahokia. In July, 
1701, the foundations of Fort Ponchartrain were laid by De la Motte 
Cadillac on the Detroit River. These stations, with those established 
further north, were the earliest attempts to occupy the Northwest Terri- 
tory. At the same time efforts were being made to occupy the Southwest, 
which finally culminated in the settlement and founding of the City of New 
Orleans by a colony from England in 1718. This was mainly accom- 
plished through the efforts of the famous Mississippi Company, established 
by the notorious John Law, who so quickly arose into prominence in 
France, and who with his scheme so quickly and so ignominiously passed 
away. , 

From the time of the founding of these stations for fifty years the 
French nation were engrossed with the settlement of the lower Missis- 
sippi, and the war with the Chickasaws, who had, in revenge for repeated 
injuries, cut off the entire colony at Natchez. Although the company 
did little for Louisiana, as the entire West was then called, yet it opened 
the trade through the Mississippi River, and started the raising of grains 
indigenous to that climate. Until the year 1750, but little is known of 
the settlements in the Northwest, as it was not until this time that the 
attention of the English was called to the occupation of this portion of the 
New World, which they then supposed they owned. Vivier, a missionary 
among the Illinois, writing from " Aux Illinois," six leagues from Fort 
Chartres, June 8, 1750, says: "We have here whites, negroes and 
Indians, to say nothing of cross-breeds. There are five French villages, 
and three villages of the natives, within a space of twenty-one leagues 
situated between the Mississippi and another river called the Karkadaid 
(Kaskaskias). In the five French villages, are perhaps, eleven hundred 
whites, three hundred blacks and some sixty red slaves or savages. The 
three Illinois towns do not contain more than eight hundred souls all 
-told. Most of the French till the soil ; they raise wheat, cattle, pigs and 
horses, and live like princes. Three times as much is produced as can 
be consumed ; and great quantities of grain and flour are sent to New 
Orleans." This city was now the seaport town of the Northwest, and 
save in the extreme northern part, where only furs and copper ore were 
found, almost all the products of the country found their way to France 
by the mouth of the Father of Waters. In another letter, dated Novem- 
ber 7, 1750, this same priest says: "For fifteen leagues above the 
mouth of the Mississippi one sees no dwellings, the ground being too low 
to be habitable. Thence to New Orleans, the lauds are only partially 
occupied. New Orleans contains black, white and red, not more, I 
think, than twelve hundred persons. To this point come all the lumber, 
bricks, salt-beef, tallow, tar, skins and bear's grease ; and above all, pork 



26 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

and flour from the Illinois. These things create some commerce, as forty 
vessels and more have come hither this year. Above New Orleans, 
plantations are again met with ; the most considerable is a colony of 
Germans, some ten leagues up the river. At Point Coupee, thirty-five 
leagues above the German settlement, is a fort. Along here, within five 
or six leagues, are not less than sixty habitations. Fifty leagues farther 
up is the Natchez post, where we have a garrison, who are kept prisoners 
through fear of the Ghickasaws. Here and at Point Coupee, they raise 
excellent tobacco. Another hundred leagues brings us to the Arkansas, 
where we have also a fort and a garrison for the benefit of the river 
traders. * * * From the Arkansas to the Illinois, nearly five hundred 
leagues, there is not a settlement. There should be, hower, a fort at 
the Oubache (Ohio), the only path by which the English can reach the 
Mississippi. In the Illinois country are numberless mines, but no one to 
work them as they deserve." Father Marest, writing from the post at 
Vincennes in 1812, makes the same observation. Vivier also says : " Some 
individuals dig lead near the surface and supply the Indians and Canada. 
Two Spaniards now here, who claim to be adepts, say that our mines are 
like those of Mexico, and that if we would dig deeper, we should find 
silver under the lead ; and at any rate the lead is excellent. There is also 
in this country, beyond doubt, copper ore, as from time to time large 
pieces are found in the streams. 

At the close of the year 1750, the French occupied, in addition to the 
lower Mississippi posts and those in Illinois, one at Du Quesne, one at 
the Maumee in the country of the Miamas, and one at Sandusky in what 
may be termed the Ohio Valley. In the northern part of the Northwest 
they had stations at St. Joseph's on the St. Joseph's of Lake Michigan, 
at Fort Ponchartrain (Detroit), at Michillimackanac or Massillimacanac, 
Fox River at Green Bay, and at Sault Ste. Marie. The fondest dreams 
of LaSalle were now fully realized. The French alone were possessors of 
this vast realm, basing their claim on discovery and settlement. Another 
nation, however, was now turning its attention to this extensive country, 
and hearing of its wealth, began to lay plans for occupying it and for 
securing the great profits arising therefrom. 

The French, however, had another claim to this country, namely,' the 



DISCOVERY OF THE OHIO. 

This " Beautiful " river was discovered by Robert Cavalier de La- 
Salle in 1669, four years before the discovery of the Mississippi by Joliet 
and Marquette. 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITOEY. 27 

While LaSalle was at his trading post on the St. Lawrence, he found 
leisure to study nine Indian dialects, the chief of which was the Iroquois. 
He not only desired to facilitate his intercourse in trade, but he longed 
to travel and explore the unknown regions of the West. An incident 
soon occurred which decided him to fit out an exploring expedition. 

While conversing with some Senecas, he learned of a river called the 
Ohio, which rose in their country and flowed to the sea, but at such a 
distance that it required eight months to reach its mouth. In this state- 
ment the Mississippi and its tributaries were considered as one stream. 
LaSalle believing, as most of the French at that period did, that the great 
rivers flowing west emptied into the Sea of California, was anxious to 
embark in the enterprise of discovering a route across the continent to 
the commerce of China and Japan. 

He repaired at once to Quebec to obtain the approval of the Gov- 
ernor. His eloquent appeal prevailed. The Governor and the Intendant, 
Talon, issued letters patent authorizing the enterprise, but made no pro- 
vision to defray the expenses. At this juncture the seminary of St. Sul- 
pice decided to send out missionaries in connection with the expedition, 
and LaSalle offering to sell his improvements at LaChine to raise money, 
the offer was accepted by the Superior, and two thousand eight hundred 
dollars were raised, with which LaSalle purchased four canoes and the 
necessary supplies for the outfit. 

On the 6th of July, 1669, the party, numbering twenty-four persons, 
embarked in seven canoes on the St. Lawrence ; two additional canoes 
carried the Indian guides. In three days they were gliding over the 
bosom of Lake Ontario. Their guides conducted them directly to the 
Seneca village on the bank of the Genesee, in the vicinity of the present 
City of Rochester, New York. Here they expected to procure guides to 
conduct them to the Ohio, but in this they were disappointed. 

The Indians seemed unfriendly to the enterprise. LaSalle suspected 
that the Jesuits had prejudiced their minds against his plans. After 
waiting a month in the hope of gaining their object, they met an Indian 
from the Iroquois colony at the head of Lake Ontario, who assured them 
that they could there find guides, and offered to conduct them thence. 

On their way they passed the mouth of the Niagara River, when they 
heard for the first time the distant thunder of the cataract. Arriving 
among the Iroquois, they met with a friendly reception, and learned 
from a Shawanee prisoner that they could reach the Ohio in six weeks. 
Delighted with the unexpected good fortune, they made ready to resume 
their journey ; but just as they were about to start they heard of the 
arrival of two Frenchmen in a neighboring village. One of them proved 
to be Louis Joliet, afterwards famous as an explorer in the West. He 



28 THE NORTHrWEST TERRITORY. 

had been sent by the Canadian Government to explore the copper mines 
on Lake Superior, but had failed, and was on his way back to Quebec. 
He gave the missionaries a map of the country he had explored in the 
lake region, together with an account of the condition of the Indians in 
that quarter. This induced the priests to determine on leaving the 
expedition and going to Lake Superior. LaSalle warned them that the 
Jesuits were probably occupying that field, and that they would meet 
with a cold reception. Nevertheless they persisted in their purpose, and 
after worship on the lake shore, parted from LaSalle. On arriving at 
Lake Superior, they found, as LaSalle had predicted, the Jesuit Fathers, 
Marquette and Dablon, occupying the field. 

These zealous disciples of Loyola informed them that they wanted 
no assistance from St. Sulpice, nor from those who made him their patron 
saint ; and thus repulsed, they returned to Montreal the following June 
without having made a single discovery or converted a single Indian. 

After parting with the priests, LaSalle went to the chief Iroquois 
viUage at Onondaga, where he obtained guides, and passing thence to a 
tributary of the Ohio south of Lake Erie, he descended the latter as far 
as the falls at Louisville. Thus was the Ohio discovered by LaSalle, the 
persevering and successful French explorer of the West, in 1669. 

The account of the latter part of his journey is found in an anony- 
mous paper, which purports to have been taken from the lips of LaSalle 
himself during a subsequent visit to Paris. In a letter written to Count 
Frontenac in 1667, shortly after the discovery, he himself says that he 
discovered the Ohio and descended it to the falls. This was regarded as 
an indisputable fact by the French authorities, who claimed the Ohio 
Valley upon another ground. When Washington was sent by the colony 
of Virginia in 1753, to demand of Gordeur de St. Pierre why the French 
had built a fort on the Monongahela, the haughty commandant at Quebec 
replied : " We claim the country on the Ohio by virtue of the discoveries 
of LaSalle, and will not give it up to the English. Our orders are to 
make prisoners of every Englishman found trading in the Ohio Valley." 



ENGLISH EXPLORATIONS AND SETTLEMENTS. 

When the new year of 1750 broke in upon the Father of Waters 
and the Great Northwest, all was still wild save at the French posts 
already described. In 1749, when the English first began to think seri- 
ously about sending men into the West, the greater portion of the States 
of Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota were yet 
under the dominion of the red men. The English knew, however, pretty 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 29 

conclusively of the nature of the wealth of these wildg. As early as 
1710, Governor Spotswood, of Virginia, had commenced movements to 
secure the country west of the Alleghenies to the EngHsh crown. In 
Pennsylvania, Governor Keith and James Logan, secretary of the prov- 
ince, from 1719 to 1731, represented to the powers of England the neces- 
sity of securing the Western lands. Nothing was done, however, by that 
power save to take some diplomatic steps to secure the claims of Britain 
to this unexplored wilderness. 

England had from the outset claimed from the Atlantic to the Pacific, 
on the ground that the discovery of the seacoast and its possession was a 
discovery and possession of the country, and, as is well known, her grants 
to the colonies extended " from sea to sea." This was not all her claim. 
She had purchased from the Indian tribes large tracts of land. This lat- 
ter was also a strong argument. As early as 1684, Lord H oward. Gov- 
ernor of Virginia, held a treaty with the six nations. These were the 
great Northern Confederacy, and comprised at first the Mohawks, Onei- 
das, Onondagas, Cayugas, and Senecas. Afterward the Tuscaroras were 
taken into the confederacy, and it became known as the Six Nations. 
They came under the protection of the mother country, and again in 
1701, they repeated the agreement, and in September, 1726, a formal deed 
was drawn up and signed by the chiefs. The validity of this claim has 
often been disputed, but never successfully. In 1744, a purchase was 
made at Lancaster, Pennsylvania, of certain lands within the " Colony of 
Virginia," for which the Indians received £200 in gold and a like sum in 
goods, with a promise that, as settlements increased, more should be paid. 
The Commissioners from Virginia were Colonel Thomas Lee and Colonel 
William Beverly. As settlements extended, the promise of more pay was 
called to mind, and Mr. Conrad Weiser was sent across the mountains with 
presents to appease the savages. Col. Lee, and some Virginians accompa- 
nied him with the intention of sounding the Indians upon their feelings 
regarding the English. They were not satisfied with their treatment, 
and plainly told the Commissioners why. The English did not desire the 
cultivation of the country, but the monopoly of the Indian trade. In 
1748, the Ohio Company was formed, and petitioned the king for a grant 
of land beyond the Alleghenies. This was granted, and the government 
of Virginia was ordered to grant to them a half million acres, two hun- 
dred thousand of which were to be located at once. Upon the 12th of 
June, 1749, 800,000 acres from the line of Canada north and west was 
made to the Loyal Company, and on the 29th of October, 1751, 100,000 
acres were given to the Greenbriar Company. All this time the French 
were not idle. They saw that, should the British gain a foothold in the 
West, especially upon the Ohio, they might not only prevent the French 



30 THE NOKTHWEST TERRITORY. 

settling upon it, but in time would come to the lower posts and so gain 
possession of the whole country. Upon the 10th of May, 1747, Vaud- 
reuil, Governor of Canada and the French possessions, well knowing the 
consequences that must arise from allowing the English to build trading 
posts in the Northwest, seized some of their frontier posts, and to further 
secure the claim of the French to the West, he, in 1749, sent Louis Cel- 
eron with a party of soldiers to plant along the Ohio River, in the mounds 
and at the mouths of its principal tributaries, plates of lead, on which 
were inscribed the claims of France. These were heard of in 1752, and 
within the memory of residents now living along the "■ Oyo," as the 
beautiful river was called by the French. One of these plates was found 
with the inscription partly defaced. It bears date August 16, 1749, and 
a copy of the inscription with particular account of the discovery of the 
plate, was sent by DeWitt Clinton to the American Antiquarian Society, 
among whose journals it may now be found.* These measures did not, 
however, deter the English from going on with their explorations, and 
though neither party resorted to arms, yet the conflict was gathering, and 
it was only a question of time when the storm would burst upon the 
frontier settlements. In 1750, Christopher Gist was sent by the Ohio 
Company to examine its lands. He went to a village of the Twigtwees, 
on the Miami, about one hundred and fifty miles above its mouth. He 
afterward spoke of it as very populous. From there he went down 
the Ohio River nearly to the falls at the present City of Louisville, 
and in November he commenced a survey of the Company's lands. Dur- 
ing the Winter, General Andrew Lewis performed a similar work for the 
Greenbriar Company. Meanwhile the French were busy in preparing 
their forts for defense, and in opening roads, and also sent a small party 
of soldiers to keep the Ohio clear. This party, having heard of the Eng- 
lish post on the Miami River, early in 1652, assisted by the Ottawas and 
Chippewas, attacked it, and, after a severe battle, in which fourteen of 
the natives were killed and others wounded, captured the garrison. 
(They were probably garrisoned in a block house). The traders were 
carried away to Canada, and one account says several were burned. This 
fort or post was called by the English Pickawillany. A memorial of the 
king's ministers refers to it as '" Pickawillanes, in the center of the terri- 
tory between the Ohio and the Wabash. The name is probably some 
variation of Pickaway or Picqua in 1773, written by Rev. David Jones 
Pickaweke." 

* The following is a trailslation of the inscription on the plate: "In the year 1749. reign of Louis XV.. 
King of France, we, Celeron, commandant of a detachment by Monsieur the Marquis of Gallisoniere, com- 
mander-in-chief of New France, to establish tranquility in certain Indian villages of these cantons, have 
buried this plate at the confluence of the Toradakoin, this twenty- ninth of July, near the river Ohio, otherwise 
Beautiful River, as a monument of renewal of possession which we have taken of the said river, and all its 
tributaries; inasmuch as the preceding Kings of France have enjoyed it, and maintained it by their arms and 
txeaties; especially by those of Eyswick, Utrecht, and Aix La Cliapelle." 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITOEY. 31 

This was the first blood shed between the French and English, and 
occurred near the present City of Piqua, Ohio, or at least at a point about 
forty-seven miles north of Dayton. Each nation became now more inter- 
ested in the progress of events in the Northwest. The English deter- 
mined to purchase from the Indians a title to the lands they wished to 
occupy, and Messrs. Fry (afterward Commander-in-chief over Washing- 
ton at the commencement of the French War of 1775-1763), Lomax and 
Pattou were sent in the Spring of 1752 to hold a conference with the 
natives at Logstown to learn what they objected to in the treaty of Lan- 
caster already noticed, and to settle all difficulties. On the 9th of June, 
these Commissioners met the red men at Logstown, a little village on the 
north bank of the Ohio, about seventeen miles below the site of Pitts- 
burgh. Here had been a trading point for many years, but it was aban- 
doned by the Indians in 1750. At first the Indians declined to recognize 
the treaty of Lancaster, but, the Commissioners taking aside Montour, 
the interpreter, who was a sou of the famous Catharine Montour, and a 
chief among the six nations, induced him to use his influence in their 
favor. This he did, and upon the loth of June they all united in signing 
a deed, confirming the Lancaster treaty in its full extent, consenting to a 
settlement of the southeast of the Ohio, and guaranteeing that it should 
not be disturbed by them. These were the means used to obtain the first 
treaty with the Indians in the Ohio Valley. 

Meanwhile the powers beyond the sea were trying to out-manoeuvre 
each other, and were professing to be at peace. The English generally 
outwitted the Indians, and failed in many instances to fulfill their con- 
tracts. They thereby gained the ill-will of the red men, and further 
increased the feeling by failing to provide them with arms and ammuni- 
tion. Said an old chief, at Easton, in 1758 : " The Indians on the Ohio 
left you because of your own fault. When we heard the French were 
coming, we asked you for help and arms, but we did not get them. The 
French came, they treated us kindly, and gained our affections. The 
Governor of Virginia settled on our lands for his own benefit, and, when 
we wanted help, forsook us." 

At the beginning of 1653, the English thought they had secured by 
title the lands in the West, but the French had quietly gathered cannon 
and military stores to be in readiness for the expected blow. The Eng- 
lish made other attempts to ratify these existing treaties, but not until 
the Summer could the Indians be gathered together to discuss the plans 
of the French. They had sent messages to the French, warning them 
away ; but they replied that they intended to complete the chain of forts 
already begun, and would not abandon the field. 

Soon after this, no satisfaction being obtained from the Ohio regard- 

2 



32 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

ing the positions and purposes of the French, Governor Dinwiddie of 
Virginia determined to send to them- another messenger and learn from 
them, if possible, their intentions. For this purpose he selected a young 
man, a surveyor, who, at the early age of nineteen, had received the rank 
of major, and who was thoroughly posted regarding frontier life. This 
personage was no other than the illustrious George Washington, who then 
held considerable interest in Western lands. He was at this time just 
twenty-two years of age. Taking Gist as his guide, the two, accompanied 
by four servitors, set out on their perilous march. They left Will's 
Creek on the 10th of November, 1753, and on the 22d reached the Monon- 
gahela, about ten miles above the fork. From there they went to 
Logstown, where Washington had a long conference with the chiefs of 
the Six Nations. From them he learned the condition of the French, and 
also heard of their determination not to come down the river till the fol- 
lowing Spring. The Indians were non-committal, as they were afraid to 
turn either way, and, as far as they could, desired to remain neutral. 
Washington, finding nothing could be done with them, went on to 
Venango, an old Indian town at the mouth of French Creek. Here the 
French had a fort, called Fort Machault. Through the rum and flattery 
of the French, he nearly lost all his Indian followers. Finding nothing 
of importance here, he pursued his way amid great privations, and on the 
11th of December reached the fort at the head of French Creek. Here 
he delivered Governor Dinwiddle's letter, received his answer, took his 
observations, and on the 16th set out upon his return journey with no one 
but Gist, his guide, and a few Indians who still remained true to him, 
notwithstanding the endeavors of the French to retain them. Their 
homeward journey was one of great peril and suffering from the cold, yet 
they reached home in safety on the 6th of January, 1754. 

From the letter of St. Pierre, commander of the French fort, sent by 
Washington to Governor Dinwiddie, it was learned that the French would 
not give up without a struggle. Active preparations were at once made 
in all the English colonies for the coming conflict, while the French 
finished the fort at Venango and strengthened their lines of fortifications, 
and gathered their forces to be in readiness. 

The Okl Dominion was all alive. Virginia was the center of great 
activities ; volunteers were called for, and from all the neighboring 
colonies men rallied to the conflict, and everywhere along the Potomac 
men were enlisting under the Governor's proclamation — which promised 
two hundred thousand acres on the Ohio. Along this river they were 
gathering as far as Will's Creek, and far beyond this point, whither Trent 
had come for assistance for his little band of forty-one men, who were 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 33 

working away in hunger and want, to fortify that point at the fork of 
the Ohio, to which both parties were looking with deep interest. 
^ " The first birds of ' Spring filled the air with their song ; the swift 
river rolled by the Allegheny hillsides, swollen by the melting snows of 
Spring and the April showers. The leaves were appearing ; a ?ew Indian 
scouts were seen, but no enemy seemed near at hand ; and all was so quiet, 
that Frazier, an old Indian scout and trader, who had been left by Tren 
m command, ventured to his home at the mouth of Turtle Creek, ten 
miles up the Monongahela. But, though all was so quiet in that wilder- 
ness keen eyes had seen the low intrenchment rising at the fork, and 

7llXr}T'^^^^ ^-^ ^^P«- the morning 

of the 1 ah of April, Ensign Ward, who then had charge of it, saw 
upon the Allegheny a ^ght that made his heart sink-sixty tatteaux and 

^;: '^f ;^' — ^''^^ .-^^I^ --' -^ ^-^-^ ^-P -^^ cannon and 
T\X . ^ u ^"^'"'"^ ^'' '"PP"^ '^^^^ ^'^ captor, Contrecoeur, 

and the next day he was bowed off by the Frenchman, and with his men 
and tools, marched up the Monongahela." 

The French and Indian war had begun. The treaty of Aix la 
Chapelle,in 1<48, had left the boundaries between the French and 
English possessions unsettled, and the events already narrated show the 
French were determined to hold the country watered by the Mississippi 
and Its tributaries ; while the English laid claims to the country by virtue 
of the discoveries of the Cabots, and claimed all the country from New- 
found and to Florida, extending from the Atlantic to the Pacific. The 
hrst decisive blow had now been struck, and the first attempt of the 
English, through the Ohio Company, to occupy these lands, had resulted 
disastrously to them. The French and Indians immediately completed 
the fortifications begun at the Fork, which they had so easily captured, 
and when completed gave to the fort the name of DuQuesne. Washing- 
ton was at Will's Creek when the news of the capture of the fort arrived 
He at once departed to recapture it. On his way he entrenched him- 
self at a place called the "Meadows," where he erected a fort called 
by him Fort Necessity. From there he surprised and captured a force of 
J^rench and Indians marching against him, but was soon after attacked 
m his fort by a much superior force, and was obliged to yield on the 
mornmg of July 4th.- He was allowed to return to Virginia. 

The English Government immediately planned fou? campaigns ; one 
against iort DuQuesne; one against Nova Scotia; one against Fort 
JNiagara, and one against Crown Point. These occurred durino- 1755-6 
and were not successful in driving the French from their possessions.' 
ihe expedition against Fort DuQuesne was led by the famous General 
iiraddock, who, refusing to listen to the advice of Washington and those 



34 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

acquainted with Indian warfare, suffered such an inglorious defeat. This 
occurred on the morning of July 9th, and is generally known as the battle 
of Mouongahela, or " Braddock's Defeat." The war continued with 
various vicissitudes through the years 1756-7 ; when, at the commence- 
ment of 1758, in accordance with the plans of William Pitt, then Secre- 
tary of State, afterwards Lord Chatham, active preparations were made to 
carry on the war. Three expeditions were planned for this year : one, 
under General Amherst, against Louisburg ; another, under Abercrombie, 
against Fort Ticonderoga ; and a third, under General Forbes, against 
Fort DuQuesne. On the 26th of July, Louisburg surrendered after a 
desperate resistance of more than forty days, and the eastern part of the 
Canadian possessions fell into the hands of the British. Abercrombie 
captured Fort Frontenac, and when the expedition against Fort DuQuesne, 
of which Washington had the active command, arrived there, it was 
found in flames and deserted. The English at once took possession, 
rebuilt the fort, and in honor of their illustrious statesman, changed the 
name to Fort Pitt. 

The great object of the campaign of 1759, was the reduction of 
Canada. General Wolfe was to lay siege to Quebec ; Amherst was to 
reduce Ticonderoga and Crown Point, and General Prideaux was to 
capture Niagara. This latter place was taken in July, but the gallant 
Prideaux lost his life in the attempt. Amherst captured Ticonderoga 
and Crown Point without a blow ; and Wolfe, after making the memor- 
able ascent to the Plains of Abraham, on September 13th, defeated 
Montcalm, and on the 18th, the city capitulated. In this engagement 
Montcolm and Wolfe both lost their lives. De Levi, Montcalm's successor, 
marched to Sillery, three miles above the city, with the purpose of 
defeating the English, and there, on the 28th of the following April, was 
fought one of the bloodiest battles of the French and Indian War. It 
resulted in the defeat of the French, and the fall of the City of Montreal. 
The Governor signed a capitulation by which the whole of Canada was 
surrendered to the English. This practically concluded the war, but it 
was not until 1763 that the treaties of peace between France and England 
were signed. This was done on the 10th of February of that year, and 
under its provisions all the country east of the Mississippi and north of 
the Iberville River, in Louisiana, were ceded to England. At the same 
time Spain ceded Florida to Great Britain. 

On the 13th of September, 1760, Major Robert Rogers was sent 
from Montreal to take charge of Detroit, the only remaining French post 
in the territory. He arrived there on the 19th of November, and sum- 
moned the place to surrender. At first the commander of the post, 
Beletre, refused, but on the 29th, hearing of the continued defeat of the 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 35 

French arms, surrendered. Rogers remained there until December 23d 
under the personal protection of the celebrated chief, Pontiac, to whom, 
no doubt, he owed his safety. Pontiac had come here to inquire the 
purposes of the English in taking possession of the country. He was 
assured that they came simply to trade with the natives, and did not 
desire their country. This answer conciliated the savages, and did much 
to insure the safety of Rogers and his party during their stay, and while 
on their journey home. 

Rogers set out for Fort Pitt on December 23, and was just one 
month on the way. His route was from Detroit to Maumee, thence 
across the present State of Ohio directly to the fort. This was the com- 
mon trail of the Indians in their journeys from Sandusky to the fork of 
the Ohio. It went from Fort Sandusky, where Sandusky City now is, 
crossed the Huron river, then called Bald Eagle Creek, to " Mohickon 
John's Town " on Mohickon Creek, the northern branch of White 
Woman's River, and thence crossed to Beaver's Town, a Delaware town 
on what is now Sandy Creek. At Beaver's Town were probably one 
hundred and fifty warriors, and not less than three thousand acres of 
cleared land. From there the track went up Sandy Creek to and across 
Big Beaver, and up the Ohio to Logstown, thence on to the fork. 

The Northwest Territory was now entirely under the English rule. 
New settlements began to be rapidly made, and the promise of a large 
trade was speedily manifested. Had the British carried out their promises 
with the natives none of those savage butcheries would have been perpe- 
trated, and the country would have been spared their recital. 

The renowned chief, Pontiac, was one of the leading spirits in these 
atrocities. We will now pause in our narrative, and notice the leading 
events in his life. The earliest authentic information regarding this 
noted Indian chief is learned from an account of an Indian trader named 
Alexander Henry, who, in the Spring of 1761, penetrated his domains as 
far as Missillimacnac. Pontiac was then a great friend of the French, 
but a bitter foe of the English, whom he considered as encroaching on his 
hunting grounds. Henry was obliged to disguise himself as a Canadian 
to insure safety, but was discovered by Pontiac, who bitterly reproached 
him and the English for their attempted subjugation of the West. He 
declared that no treaty had been made with them; no presents sent 
them, and that he would resent any possession of the West by that nation. 
He was at the time about fifty years of age, tall and dignified, and was 
civil and military ruler of the Ottawas, Ojibwas and Pottawatamies. 

The Indians, from Lake Michigan to the borders of North Carolina, 
were united in this feeling, and at the time of the treaty of Paris, ratified 
February 10, 1763, a general conspiracy was formed to fall suddenly 



36 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

upon the frontier British posts, and with one blow strike every man dead. 
Poutiac was the marked leader in all this, and was the commander 
of the Chippewas, Ottawas, Wyandots, Miamis, Shawanese, Delawares 
and Mingoes, who had, for the time, laid aside their local quarrels to \imt& 
in this enterprise. 

The blow came, as near as can now be ascertained, on May 7, 176-'^. 
Nine British posts fell, and the Indians drank, " scooped up in the hollow 
of joined hands," the blood of many a Briton. 

Pontiac's immediate field of action was the garrison at Detroit. 
Here, however, the plans were frustrated by an Indian woman disclosing 
the plot the evening previous to his arrival. Everything was carried out, 
however, according to Pontiac's plans until the moment of action, when 
Major Gladwyn, the commander of the post, stepping to one of the Indian 
chiefs, suddenly drew aside his blanket and disclosed the concealed 
musket. Pontiac, though a brave man, turned pale and trembled. He 
saw his plan was known, and that the garrison were prepared. Ke 
endeavored to exculpate himself from any such intentions ; but the guilt 
was evident, and he and his followers were dismissed with a severe 
reprimand, and warned never to again enter the walls of the post. 

Pontiac at once laid siege to the fort, and until the treaty of peace 
between the British and the Western Indians, concluded in August, 1764, 
continued to harass and besiege the fortress. He organized a regular 
commissariat department, issued bills of credit written out on bark, 
which, to his credit, it may be stated, were punctually redeemed. At 
the conclusion of the treaty, in which it seems he took no part, he went 
further south, living many yeass among the Illinois. 

He had given up all hope of saving his country and race. After a 
time he endeavored to unite the Illinois tribe and those about St. Louis 
in a war with the whites. His efforts were fruitless, and only ended in a 
quarrel between himself and some Kaskaskia Indians, one of whom soon 
afterwards killed him. His death was, however, avenged by the northern 
Indians, who nearly exterminated the Illinois in the wars which followed. 

Had it not been for the treachery of a few of his followers, his plan 
for the extermination of the whites, a masterly one, would undoubtedly 
have been carried out. 

It was in the Spring of the year following Rogers' visit that Alex- 
ander Henry went to Missillimacnac, and everywhere found the strongest 
feelings against the English, who had not carried out their promises, and 
were doing nothing to conciliate the natives. Here he met the chief, 
Pontiac, who, after conveying to him in a speech the idea that their 
French father would awake soon and utterly destroy his enemies, said : 
" Englishman, although you have conquered the French, you have not 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 37 

yet conquered us ! We are not your slaves! These lakes, these woods, 
these mountains, were left us by our ancestors. They are our inheritance, 
and we will part with them to none. Your nation supposes that we, like 
the white people, can not live without bread and pork and beef. But you 
ought to know that He, the Great Spirit and Master of Life, has provided 
food for us upon these broad lakes and in these mountains." 

He then spoke of the fact that no treaty had been made with them, 
no presents sent them, and that he and his people were yet for war. 
Such were the feelings of the Northwestern Indians immediately after 
the English took possession of their country. These feelings were no 
doubt encouraged by the Canadians and French, who hoped that yet the 
French arms might prevail. The treaty of Paris, however, gave to the 
English the right to this vast domain, and active preparations were going 
on to occupy it and enjoy its trade and emoluments. 

In 1762, France, by a secret treaty, ceded Louisiana to Spain, to pre- 
vent it falling into the hands of the English, who were becoming masters 
of the entire West. The next year the treaty of Paris, signed at Fon- 
tainbleau, gave to the English the domain of the country in question. 
Twenty years after, by the treaty of peace between the United States 
and England, that part of Canada lying south and west of the Great 
Lakes, comprehending a large territory which is the subject of these 
sketches, was acknowledged to be a portion of the United States ; and 
twenty years still later, in 1803, Louisiana was ceded by Spain back to 
France, and by France sold to the United States. 

In the half centur}^ from the building of the Fort of Crevecoeur by 
LaSalle, in 1680, up to the erection of Fort Chartres, many French set- 
tlements had been made in that quarter. These have already been 
noticed, being those at St. Vincent (Vincennes), Kohokia or Cahokia, 
Kaskaskia and Prairie du Rocher, on the American Bottom, a large tract 
of rich alluvial soil in Illinois, on the Mississippi, opposite the site of St. 
Louis. 

By the treaty of Paris, the regions east of the Mississippi, including 
all these and other towns of the Northwest, were given over to England; 
but they do not appear to have been taken possession of until 1765, when 
Captain Stirling, in the name of the Majesty of England, established him- 
self at Fort Chartres bearing with him the proclamation of General Gage, 
dated December 30, 1764, which promised religious freedom to all Cath- 
olics who worshiped here, and a right to leave the country with their 
effects if they wished, or to remain with the privileges of Englishmen. 
It was shortly after the occupancy of the West by the British that the 
war with Pontiac opened. It is already noticed in the sketch of that 
chieftain. By it many a Briton lost his life, and many a frontier settle- 



38 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

ment in its infancy ceased to exist. This was not ended until the year 
1764, when, failing to capture Detroit, Niagara and Fort Pitt, his confed- 
eracy became disheartened, and, receiving no aid from the French, Pon- 
tiac abandoned the enterprise and departed to the Illinois, among whom 
he afterward lost his life. 

As soon as these difficulties were definitely settled, settlers began 
rapidly to survey the country and prepare for occupation. During the 
year 1770, a number of persons from Virginia and other British provinces 
explored and marked out nearly all the valuable lands on the Mononga- 
hela and along the banks of the Ohio as far as the Little Kanawha. This 
was followed by another exploring expedition, in which George Washing- 
ton was a party. The latter, accompanied by Dr. Craik, Capt. Crawford 
and others, on the 20th of October, 1770, descended the Ohio from Pitts- 
burgh to the mouth of the Kanawha ; ascended that stream about fourteen 
miles, marked out several large tracts of land, shot several buffalo, which 
were then abundant in the Ohio Valley, and returned to the fort. 

Pittsburgh Avas at this time a trading post, about which was clus- 
tered a village of some twenty houses, inhabited by Indian traders. This 
same year, Capt. Pittman visited Kaskaskia and its neighboring villages. 
He found there about sixty-five resident families, and at Cahokia only 
fortj^-five dwellings. At Fort Chartres was another small settlement, and 
at Detroit the garrison were quite prosperous and strong. For a year 
or two settlers continued to locate near some of these posts, generally 
Fort Pitt or Detroit, owing to the fears of the Indians, who still main- 
tained some feelings of hatred to the English. The trade from the posts 
was quite good, and from those in Illinois large quantities of pork and 
flour found their way to the New Orleans market. At this time the 
policy of the British Government was strongly opposed to the extension 
of the colonies west. In 1763, the King of England forbade, by roj-al 
proclamation, his colonial subjects from making a settlement beyond the 
sources of the rivers which fall into the Atlantic Ocean. At the instance 
of the Board of Trade, measures were taken to prevent the settlement 
without the limits prescribed, and to retain the commerce within easy 
reach of Great Britain. 

The commander-in-chief of the king's forces wrote in 17G9 : " In the 
course of a few years necessity will compel the colonists, should they 
extend their settlements west, to provide manufactures of some kind for 
themselves, and when all connection upheld by commerce with the mother 
country ceases, an independency in their government will soon follow.'' 

In accordance with this policy, Gov. Gage issued a proclamation 
in 1772, commanding the inhabitants of Vincennes to abandon their set- 
tlements and join some of the Eastern English colonies. To this they 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 39 

strenuously objected, giving good reasons therefor, and were allowed to 
remain. The strong opposition to this policy of Great Britain led to its 
change, and to such a course as to gain the attachment of the French 
population. In December, 1773, influential citizens of Quebec petitioned 
the king for an extension of the boundary lines of that province, which 
was granted, and Parliament passed an act on June 2, 1774, extend- 
ing the boundary so as to include the territory lying within the present 
States of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Michigan. 

In consequence of the liberal policy pursued by the British Govern- 
ment toward the French settlers in the West, they were disposed to favor 
that nation in the war which soon followed with the colonies ; but the 
early alliance between France and America soon brought them to the side 
of the war for independence. 

In 1774, Gov. Dunmore, of Virginia, began to encourage emigration 
to the Western lands. He appointed magistrates at Fort Pitt under the 
pretense that the fort was under the government of that commonwealth. 
One of these justices, John Connelly, who possessed a tract of land in the 
Ohio Valley, gathered a force of men and garrisoned the fort, calling it 
Fort Dunmore. This and other parties were formed to select sites for 
settlements, and often came in conflict with the Indians, who yet claimed 
portions of the valley, and several battles followed. These ended in the 
famous battle of Kanawha in July, where the Indians were defeated and 
driven across the Ohio. 

During the years 1775 and 1776, by the operations of land companies 
and the perseverance of individuals, several settlements were firmly estab- 
lished between the Alleghanies and the Ohio River, and western land 
speculators were busy in Illinois and on the Wabash. At a council held 
in Kaskaskia on July 5, 1773, an association of English traders, calling 
themselves the "Illinois Land Company," obtained from ten chiefs of the 
Kaskaskia, Cahokia and Peoria tribes two large tracts of land lying on 
the east side of the Mississippi River south of the Illinois. In 1775, a mer- 
chant from the Illinois Country, named Viviat, came to Post Vincennes 
as the agent of the association called the " Wabash Land Company." On 
the 8th of October he obtained from eleven Piankeshaw chiefs, a deed for 
37,497,600 acres of land. This deed was signed by the grantors, attested 
by a number of the inhabitants of Vincennes, and afterward recorded in 
the office of a notary public at Kaskaskia. This and other land com- 
panies had extensive schemes for the colonization of the West ; but all 
were frustrated by the breaking out of the Revolution. On the 20th of 
April, 1780, the two companies named consolidated under the name of the 
" United Illinois and Wabash Land Company." They afterward made 



40 THE NORTHWEST TEERITORY. 

strenuous efforts to have these grants sanctioned by Congress, but all 
signally failed. 

When the War of the Revolution commenced, Kentucky was an unor- 
ganized countr}', though there were several settlements within her borders. 

In Hutchins' Topography of Virginia, it is stated that at that time 
" Kaskaskia contained 80 houses, and nearly 1,000 white and black in- 
habitants — the whites being a little the more numerous. Cahokia con- 
tains 50 houses and 300 white inhabitants, and 80 negroes. There were 
east of the Mississippi River, about the year 1771 " — when these observa- 
tions were made — " 300 white men capable of bearing arms, and 230 
negroes." 

From 1775 until the expedition of Clark, nothing is recorded and 
nothing known of these settlements, save what is contained in a report 
made by a committee to Congress in June, 1778. From it the following 
extract is made : 

" Near the mouth of the River Kaskaskia, there is a village which 
appears to have contained nearly eighty families from the beginning of 
the late revolution. There are twelve families in a small village at la 
Prairie du Rochers, and near fifty families at the Kahokia Village. There 
are also four or five families at Fort Chartres and St. Philips, which is five 
miles further up the river." 

St. Louis had been settled in February, 1764, and at this time con- 
tained, including its neighboring towns, over six hundred whites and one 
hundred and fifty negroes. It must be remembered that all the country 
west of the Mississijipi was now under French rule, and remained so until 
ceded again to Spain, its original owner, who afterwards sold it and the 
country including New Orleans to the United States. At Detroit there 
were, according to Capt. Carver, who was in the Northwest from 1766 to 
1768, more than one hundred houses, and the river was settled for more 
than twenty miles, although poorly cultivated — the people being engaged 
in the Indian trade. This old town has a history, which we will here 
relate. 

It is the oldest town in the Northwest, having been founded by 
Antoine de Lamotte Cadillac, in 1701. It was laid out in the form of an 
oblong square, of two acres in length, and an acre and a half in width. 
As described by A. D. Frazer, who first visited it and became a permanent 
resident of the place, in 1778, it comprised within its limits that space 
between Mr. Palmer's store (Conant Block) and Capt. Perkins' house 
(near the Arsenal building), and extended back as far as the public barn, 
and was bordered in front by the Detroit River. It was surrounded by 
oak and cedar pickets, about fifteen feet long, set in the ground, and had 
four gates — east, west, north and south. Over the first three of these 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 41 

gates were block houses provided with four guns apiece, each a six- 
pounder. Two six-gun batteries were planted fronting the river and in a 
parallel direction with the block houses. There were four streets running 
east and west, the main street being twenty feet wide and the rest fifteen 
feet, while the four streets crossing these at right angles were from ten 
to fifteen feet in width. 

At the date spoken of by Mr. Frazer, there was no fort within the 
enclosure, but a citadel on the ground corresponding to the present 
northwest corner of Jefferson Avenue and Wayne Street. The citadel was 
inclosed by pickets, and within it were erected barracks of wood, two 
stories high, sufficient to contain ten officers, and also barracks sufficient 
to contain four hundred men, and a provision store built of brick. The 
citadel also contained a hospital and guard-house. The old town of 
Detroit, in 1778, contained about sixty houses, most of them one story, 
with a few a story and a half in height. They were all of logs, some 
hewn and some round. There was one building of splendid appearance, 
called the " King's Palace," two stories high, which stood near the east 
gate. It was built for Governor Hamilton, the first governor commissioned 
by the British. There were two guard-houses, one near the west gate and 
the other near the Government House. Each of the guards consisted of 
twenty-four men and a subaltern, who mounted regularly every morning 
between nine and ten o'clock, Each furnished four sentinels, who were 
relieved every two hours. There was also an officer of the day, who per- 
formed strict duty. Each of the gates was shut regularly at sunset, 
even wicket gates were shut at nine o'clock, and all the keys were 
delivered into the hands of the commanding officer. They were opened 
in the morning at sunrise. No Indian or squaw was permitted to enter 
town with any weapon, such as a tomahawk or a knife. It was a stand- 
ing order that the Indians should deliver their arms and instruments of 
every kind before they were permitted to pass the sentinel, and they were 
restored to them on their return. No more than twenty-five Indians were 
allowed to enter the town at any one time, and they were admitted only 
at the east and west gates. At sundown the drums beat, and all the 
Indians were required to leave town instantly. There was a council house 
near the water side for the purpose of holding council with the Indians. 
The population of the town was about sixty families, in all about two 
hundred males and one hundred females. This town was destroyed by 
fire, all except one dwelling, in 1805. After which the present " new " 
town was laid out. 

On the breaking out of the Revolution, the British held every post of 
importance in the West. Kentucky was formed as a component part of 
Virginia, and the sturdy pioneers of the West, alive to their interests, 



42 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY, 

and recognizing the great benefits of obtaining the control of the trade in 
this part of the New World, held steadily to their purposes, and those 
within the commonwealth of Kentucky proceeded to exercise their 
civil privileges, by electing John Todd and Richard Gallaway» 
burgesses to represent them in the Assembly of the parent state. 
Early in September of that year (1777) the first court was held 
in Harrodsburg, and Col. Bowman, afterwards major, who had arrived 
in August, was made the commander of a militia organization which 
had been commenced the March previous. Thus the tree of loyalty 
was growing. The chief spirit in this far-out colony, who had represented 
her the year previous east of the mountains, was now meditating a move 
unequaled in its boldness. He had been watching the movements of the 
British throughout the Northwest, and understood their whole plan. He 
saw it was through their possession of the posts at Detroit, Vincennes, 
Kaskaskia, and other places, which would give them constant and easy 
access to the various Indian tribes in the Northwest, that the British 
intended to penetrate the country from the north and soutn, ana annihi- 
late the frontier fortresses. This moving, energetic man was Colonel, 
afterwards General, George Rogers Clark. He knew the Indians were not 
unanimously in accord with the English, and he was convinced that, could 
the British be defeated and expelled from the Northwest, the natives 
might be easily awed into neutrality ; and by spies sent for the purpose, 
he satisfied himself that the enterprise against the Illinois settlements 
might easily succeed. Having convinced himself of the certainty of the 
project, he repaired to the Capital of Virginia, which place he reached on 
November 5th. While he was on his way, fortunately, on October 17th, 
Burgoyne had been defeated, and the spirits of the colonists greatly 
encouraged thereby. Patrick Henry was Governor of Virginia, and at 
once entered heartily into Clark's plans. The same plan had before been 
agitated in the Colonial Assemblies, but there was no one until Clark 
came who was sufficiently acquainted with the condition of affairs at the 
scene of action to be able to guide them. 

Clark, having satisfied the Virginia leaders of the feasibility of his 
plan, received, on the 2d of January, two sets of instructions — one secret, 
the other open — the latter authorized him to proceed to enlist seven 
companies to go to Kentucky, subject to his orders, and to serve three 
months from their arrival in the West. The secret order authorized him 
to arm these troops, to procure his powder and lead of General Hand 
at Pittsburgh, and to proceed at once to subjugate the country. 

With these instructions Clark repaired to Pittsburgh, choosing rather 
to raise his men west of the mountains, as he well knew all were needed 
in the colonies in the conflict there. He sent Col. W. B. Smith to Hoi- 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 43 

ston for the same purpose, but neither succeeded in raising the required 
number of men. The settlers in these parts were afraid to leave their 
own firesides exposed to a vigilant foe, and but few could be induced to 
join the proposed expedition. With three companies and several private 
volunteers, Clark at length commenced his descent of the Ohio, which he 
navigated as far as the Falls, where he took possession of and fortified 
Corn Island, a small island between the present Cities of Louisville, 
Kentucky, and New Albany, Indiana. Remains of this fortification may 
yet be found. At this place he appointed Col. Bowman to meet him 
with such recruits as had reached Kentucky by the southern route, and 
as many as could be spared from the station. Here he announced to 
the men their real destination. Having completed his arrangements, 
and chosen his party, he left a small garrison upon the island, and on the 
2-ith of June, during a total eclipse of the sun, which to them augured 
no good, and which fixes beyond dispute the date of starting, he with 
his chosen band, fell down the river. His plan was to go by water as 
far as Fort Massac or Massacre, and thence march direct to Kaskaskia. 
Here he intended to surprise the garrison, and after its capture go to 
Cahokia, then to Vincennes, and lastly to Detroit. Should he fail, he 
intended to march directly to the Mississippi River and cross it into the 
Spanish country. Before his start he received two good items of infor- 
mation : one that the alliance had been formed between France and the 
United States ; and the other that the Indians throughout the Illinois 
country and the inhabitants, at the various frontier posts, had been led to 
believe by the British that the " Long Knives " or Virginians, were the 
most fierce, bloodthirsty and cruel savages that ever scalped a foe. With 
this impression on their minds, Clark saw that proper management would 
cause them to submit at once from fear, if surprised, and then from grati- 
tude would become friendly if treated with unexpected leniency. 

The march to Kaskaskia was accomplished through a hot July sun, 
and the town reached on the evening of July 4. He captured the fort 
near the village, and soon after the village itself by surprise, and without 
the loss of a single man or by killing any of the enemy. After sufi&ciently 
working upon the fears of the natives, Clark told them they were at j)er- 
fect liberty to worship as they pleased, and to take whichever side of the 
great conflict they would, also he would protect them from any barbarity 
from British or Indian foe. This had the desired effect, and the inhab- 
itants, so unexpectedly and so gratefully surprised by the unlooked 
for turn of affairs, at once swore allegiance to the American arms, and 
when Clark desired to go to Cahokia on the 6th of July, they accom- 
panied him, and through their influence the inhabitants of the place 
surrendered, and gladly placed themselves under his protection. Thus 



44 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

the two important posts in Illinois passed from the hands of the English 
into the possession of Virginia. 

In the person of the priest at Kaskaskia, M. Gibault, Clark found a 
powerful ally and generous friend. Clark saw that, to retain possession 
of the Northwest and treat successfully with the Indians within its boun- 
daries, he must establish a government for the colonies he had taken. 
St. Vincent, the next important post to Detroit,remained yet to be taken 
before the Mississippi Valley was conquered. M. Gibault told him that 
he would alone, by persuasion, lead Vincennes to throw off its connection 
with England. Clark gladly accepted his offer, and on the 14th of July, 
in company with a fellow-townsman, M. Gibault started on his mission of 
peace, and on the 1st of August returned with the cheerful intelligence 
that the post on the " Oubache " had taken the oath of allegiance to 
the Old Dominion. During this interval, Clark established his courts, 
placed garrisons at Kaskaskia and Cahokia, successfully re-enlisted his 
men, sent word to have a fort, which proved the germ of Louisville, 
erected at the Falls of the Ohio, and dispatched Mr. Rocheblave, who 
had been commander at Kaskaskia, as a prisoner of war to Richmond. 
In October the County of Illinois was established by the Legislature 
of Virginia, John Todd appointed Lieutenant Colonel and Civil Governor, 
and in November General Clark and his men received the thanks of 
the Old Dominion through their Legislature. 

In a speech a few days afterward, Clark made known fully to the 
natives his plans, and at its close all came forward and swore alle- 
giance to the Long Knives. While he was doing this Governor Hamilton, 
having made his various arrangements, had left Detroit and moved down 
the Wabash to Vincennes intending to operate from that point in reducing 
the Illinois posts, and then proceed on down to Kentucky and drive the 
rebels from the West. Gen. Clark had, on the return of M. Gibault, 
dispatched Captain Helm, of Fauquier County, Virginia, with an attend- 
ant named Henry, across the Illinois prairies to command the fort. 
Hamilton knew nothing of the capitulation of the post, and was greatly 
surprised on his arrival to be confronted by Capt. Helm, who, standing at 
the entrance of the fort by a loaded cannon ready to fire upon his assail- 
ants, demanded upon what terms Hamilton demanded possession of the 
fort. Being granted the rights of a prisoner of war, he surrendered to 
the British General, who could scarcely believe his eyes when he saw the 
force in the garrison. 

Hamilton, not realizing the character of the men with whom he was 
contending, gave up his intended campaign for the Winter, sent his four 
Jiundred Indian wan'iors to prevent troops from coming down the Ohio, 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 45 

and to annoy the Americans in all ways, and sat quietly down to pass the 
Winter. Information of all these proceedings having reached Clark, he 
saw that immediate and decisive action was necessary, and that unless 
he captured Hamilton, Hamilton would capture him. Clark received the 
news on the 29th of January, 1779, and on February 4th, having suffi- 
ciently garrisoned Kaskaskia and Cahokia, he sent down the Mississippi 
a " battoe," as Major Bowman writes it, in order to ascend the Ohio and 
Wabash, and operate with the land forces gathering for the fray. 

On the next day, Clark, with his little force of one hundred and 
twenty men, set out for the post, and after incredible hard marching 
through much mud, the ground being thawed by the incessant spring 
rains, on the 22d reached the fort, and being joined by his "battoe," at 
once commenced the attack on the post. The aim of the American back- 
woodsman was unerring, and on the 24th the garrison surrendered to the 
intrepid boldness of Clark. The French were treated with great kind- 
ness, and gladly renewed their allegiance to Virginia. Hamilton was 
sent as a prisoner to Virginia, where he was kept in close confinement. 
During his command of the British frontier posts, he had offered prizes 
to the Indians for all the scalps of Americans they would bring to him, 
and had earned in consequence thereof the title " Hair-buyer General," 
by which he was ever afterward known. 

Detroit was now without doubt within easy reach of the enterprising 
Virginian, could he but raise the necessary force. Governor Henry being 
apprised of this, promised him the needed reinforcement, and Clark con- 
cluded to wait until he could capture and sufficiently garrison the posts. 
Had Clark failed in this bold undertaking, and Hamilton succeeded in 
uniting the western Indians for the next Spring's campaign, the West 
would indeed have been swept from the Mississippi to the Allegheny 
Mountains, and the great blow struck, which had been contemplated from 
the commencement, by the British. 

"But for this small army of dripping, but fearless Virginians, the 
union of all the tribes from Georgia to Maine against the colonies might 
have been effected, and the whole current of our history changed." 

•At this time some fears were entertained by the Colonial Govern- 
ments that the Indians in the North and Northwest were inclining to the 
British, and under the instructions of Washington, now Commander-in- 
Chief of the Colonial army, and so bravely fighting for American inde- 
pendence, armed forces were sent against the Six Nations, and upon the 
Ohio frontier, Col. Bowman, acting under the same general's orders, 
marched against Indians within the present limits of that State. These 
expeditions were in the main successful, and the Indians were compelled 
to sue for peace. 



46 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

During this same year (1779) the famous " Land Laws" of Virginia 
were passed. The passage of these laws was of more consequence to the 
pioneers of Kentucky and the Northwest than the gaining of a few Indian 
conflicts. These laws confirmed in main all grants made, and guaranteed 
to all actual settlers their rights and privileges. After providing for the 
settlers, the laws provided for selling the balance of the public lands at 
forty cents per acre. To carry the Land Laws into effect, the Legislature 
sent four Virginians westward to attend to the various claims, over many 
of which great confusion prevailed concerning their validity. These 
gentlemen opened their court on October 13, 1779, at St. Asaphs, and 
continued until April 26, 1780, when they adjourned, having decided 
three ..thousand claims. They were succeeded by the surveyor, who 
came in the person of Mr. George May, and assumed his duties on the 
10th day of the month whose name he bore. With the opening of the 
next year (1780) the troubles concerning the navigation of the Missis- 
sippi commenced. The Spanish Government exacted such measures in 
relation to its trade as to cause the overtures made to the United States 
to be rejected. The American Government considered they had a right 
to navigate its channel. To enforce their claims, a fort was erected below 
the mouth of the Ohio on the Kentucky side of the river. The settle- 
ments in Kentucky were being rapidly filled by emigrants. It was dur- 
ing this year that the first seminary of learning was established in the 
West in this young and enterprising Commonwealth. 

The settlers here did not look upon the building of this fort in a 
friendly manner, as it aroused the hostility of the Indians. Spain had 
been friendly to the Colonies during their struggle for independence, 
and though for a while this friendship appeared in danger from the 
refusal of the free navigation of the river, yet it was finally settled to the 
satisfaction of both nations. 

The Winter of 1779-80 was one of the most unusually severe ones 
ever experienced in the West. The Indians always referred to it as the 
"Great Cold." Numbers of wild animals perished, and not a few 
pioneers lost their lives. The following Summer a party of Canadians 
and Indians attacked St. Louis, and attempted to take possession of it 
in consequence of the friendly disposition of Spain to the revolting 
colonies. They met with such a determined resistance on the part of the 
inhabitants, even the women taking part in the battle, that they weie 
compelled to abandon the contest. They also made an attack on the 
settlements in Kentucky, but, becoming alarmed in some unaccountable 
manner, they fled the country in great haste. 

About this time arose the question in the Colonial Congress con- 
cerning the western lands claimed by Virginia, New York, Massachusetts 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 49 

and Connecticut. The agitation concerning this subject finally led New 
York, on the 19th of February, 1780, to pass a law giving to the dele- 
gates of that State in Congress the power to cede her western lands for 
the benefit of the United States. This law was laid before Congress 
during the next month, but no steps were taken concerning it until Sep- 
tember 6th, when a resolution passed that body calling upon the States 
claiming western lands to release their claims in favor of the whole body. 
This basis formed the union, and was the first after all of those legislative 
measures which resulted in the creation of the States of Ohio, Indiana, 
Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota. In December of the same 
year, the plan of conquering Detroit again arose. The conquest might 
have easily been effected by Clark had the necessary aid been furnished 
him. Nothing decisive was done, yet the heads of the Government knew 
that the safety of the Northwest from British invasion lay in the capture 
and retention of that important post, the only unconquered one in the 
territory. 

Before the close of the year, Kentucky was divided into the Coun- 
ties of Lincoln, Fayette and Jefferson, and the act establishing the Town 
of Louisville was passed. This same year is also noted in the annals of 
American history as the year in which occurred Arnold's treason to the 
United States. 

Virginia, in accordance with the resolution of Congress, on the 2d 
day of January, 1781, agreed to yield her western lands to the United 
States upon certain conditions, which Congress would not accede to, and 
the Act of Cession, on the part of the Old Dominion, failed, nor was 
anything farther done until 1783. During all that time the Colonies 
were busily engaged in the struggle with the mother country, and in 
consequence thereof but little heed was given to the western settlements. 
Upon the 4th of July, 1773, the first birth north of the Ohio River of 
American parentage occurred, being that of John L. Roth, son of John 
Roth, one of the Moravian missionaries, whose band of Christian Indians 
sufi'ered in after years a horrible massacre by the hands of the frontier 
settlers, who had been exasperated by the murder of several of their 
neighbors, and in their rage committed, without regard to humanity, a 
deed which forever afterward cast a shade of shame upon their lives. 
For this and kindred outrages on the part of the whites, the Indians 
committed many deeds of cruelty which darken the years of 1771 and 
1772 in the history of the Northwest. 

During the year 1782 a number of battles among the Indians and 
frontiersmen occurred, and between the Moravian Indians and the Wyan- 
dots. In these, horrible acts of cruelty were practised on the captives, 
many of such dark deeds transpiring under the leadership of the notorious 

3 



50 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

frontier outlaw, Simon Girty, whose name, as well as those of his brothers, 
was a terror to women and children. These occurred chiefly in the Ohio 
valleys. Cotemporary with them were several engagements in Kentucky, 
in which the famous Daniel Boone engaged, and who, often by his skill 
and knowledge of Indian warfare, saved the outposts from cruel destruc- 
tion. By the close of the year victory had perched upon the American 
banner, and on the 30th of November, provisional articles of peace had 
been arranged between the Commissioners of England and her uncon- 
querable colonies. Cornwallis had been defeated on the 19th of October 
preceding, and the liberty of America was assured. On the 19th of 
April following, the anniversary of the battle of Lexington, peace was 
proclaimed to the army of the United States, and on the 3d of the next 
September, the definite treaty which ended our revolutionary struggle 
was concluded. By the terms of that treaty, the boundaries of the West 
were as follows : On the north the line was to extend along the center of 
the Great Lakes ; from the western point of Lake Superior to Long Lake ; 
thence to the Lake of the Woods ; thence to the head of the Mississippi 
River ; down its center to the 31st parallel of latitude, then on that line 
east to the head of the Appalachicola River ; down its center to its junc- 
tion with the Flint ; thence straight to the head of St. Mary's River, and 
thence down along its center to the Atlantic Ocean. 

Following the cessation of hostilities with England, several posts 
were still occupied by the British in the North and West. Among these 
was Detroit, still in the hands of the enemy. Numerous engagements 
with the Indians throughout Ohio and Indiana occurred, upon whose 
lands adventurous whites would settle ere the title had been acquired by 
the proper treaty. 

To remedy this latter evil. Congress appointed commissioners to 
treat with the natives and purchase their lands, and prohibited the settle- 
ment of the territory until this could be done. Before the close of the 
3; ear another attempt was made to capture Detroit, which was, however, 
not pushed, and Virginia, no longer feeling the interest in the Northwest 
she had formerly done, withdrew her troops, having on the 20th of 
December preceding authorized the whole of her possessions to be deeded 
to the United States. This was done on the 1st of March following, and 
the Northwest Territory passed from the control of the Old Dominion. 
To Gen. Clark and his soldiers, however, she gave a tract of one hundred 
and fifty thousand acres of land, to be situated any where north of the 
Ohio wherever they choose to locate them. They selected the region 
opposite the falls of the Ohio, where is now the dilapidated village of 
Clarksville, about midway between the cities of New Albany and Jeffer- 
son ville, Indiana. 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 51 

While the frontier remained thus, and Gen. Haldimand at Detroit 
refused to evacuate, alleging that he had no orders from his King to do 
so, settlers were rapidly gathering about the inland forts. In the Spring 
of 1784, Pittsburgh was regularly laid out, and from the journal of Arthur 
Lee, who passed through the town soon after on his way to the Indian 
council at Fort Mcintosh, we suppose it was not very prepossessing in 
appearance. He says : 

'' Pittsburgh is inhabited almost entirely by Scots and Irish, who 
live in paltry log houses, and are as dirty as if in the north of Ireland or 
even Scotland. There is a great deal of trade carried on, the goods being 
brought at the vast expense of forty-five shillings per pound from Phila- 
delphia and Baltimore. They take in the shops flour, wheat, skins and 
money. There are in the town four attorneys, two doctors, and not a 
priest of any persuasion, nor church nor chapel." 

Kentucky at this time contained thirty thousand inhabitants, and 
was beginning to discuss measures for a separation from Virginia. A 
land office was opened at Louisville, and measures were adopted to take 
defensive precaution against the Indians, who were yet, in some instances, 
incited to deeds of violence by the British. Before the close of this year, 
1784, the military claimants of land began to occupy them, although no 
entries were recorded until 1787. 

The Indian title to the Northwest was not yet extinguished. They 
held large tracts of land, and in order to prevent bloodshed Congress 
adopted means for treaties with the original owners and provided for the 
surveys of the lands gained thereby, as well as for those north of the 
Ohio, now in its possession. 

On January 31, 1786, a treaty was made with the Wabash Indians. 
The treaty of Fort Stanwix had been made in 1784. That at Fort Mc- 
intosh in 1785, and through these much land was gained. The Wabash 
Indians, however, afterward refused to comply with the provisions of the 
treaty made with them, and in order to compel their adherence to its 
provisions, force was used. 

During the year 1786, the free navigation of the Mississippi came up 
in Congress, and caused various discussions, which resulted in no definite 
action, only serving to excite speculation in regard to the western lands. 
Congress had promised bounties of land to the soldiers of the Revolution, 
but owing to the unsettled condition of affairs along the Mississippi 
respecting its navigation, and the trade of the Northwest, that body had, 
in 1783, declared its inability to fulfill these promises until a treaty could 
be concluded between the two Governments. 

Before the close of the year 1786, however, it was able, through the 
treaties with the Indians, to allow some grants and the settlement 



62 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

thereon, and on the 14th of September, Connecticut ceded to the General 
Government the tract of land known as the "Connecticut Reserve," 
and before the close of the following year a large tract of land north 
of the Ohio was sold to a company, who at once took measures to 
settle it. 

By the provisions of this grant, the company were to pay the United 
States one dollar per acre, subject to a deduction of one-third for bad 
lands and other contingencies. They received 750,000 acres, bounded 
on the south by the Ohio, on the east by the seventh range of townships, 
on the west by the sixteenth range, and on the north by a line so drawn 
as to make the grant complete without the reservations. In addi- 
tion to this, Congress afterward granted 100,000 acres to actual set- 
tlers, and 214,285 acres as army bounties under the resolutions of 1789 
and 1790. 

While Dr. Cutler, one of the agents of the company, was pressing 
its claims before Congress, that body was bringing into form an ordinance 
for the political and social organization of this Territory. When the 
cession was made by Virginia, in 1784, a plan was offered, but rejected. 
A motion had been made to strike from the proposed plan the prohibition 
of slavery, which prevailed. The plan was then discussed and altered, 
and finally passed unanimously, with the exception of South Carolina. 
By this proposition, the Territory was to have been divided into states 
by parallels and meridian lines. This, it was thought, would make ten 
states, which were to have been named as follows — beginning at the 
northwest corner and going southwardly : Sylvania, Michigania, Cher- 
sonesus,Assenisipia, Metropotamia, Illenoia, Saratoga, Washington, Poly- 
potamia and Pelisipia. 

There was a more serious objection to this plan than its category of 
names, — the boundaries. The root of the difficulty was in the resolu- 
tion of Congress passed in October, 1780, which fixed the boundaries 
of the ceded lands to be from one hundred to one hundred and fifty miles 
square. These resolutions being presented to the Legislatures of Vir- 
ginia and Massachusetts, they desired a change, and in July, 1786, the 
subject was taken up in Congress, and changed to favor a division into 
not more than five states, and not less than three. This was approved by 
the State Legislature of Virginia. 

The subject of the Government was again taken up by Congress in 
1786, and discussed throughout that year and until July, 1787, when the 
famous " Compact of 1787 " was passed, and the foundation of the gov- 
ernment of the Northwest laid. This compact is fully discussed and 
explained in the history of Ohio in this book, and to it the reader is re- 
ferred. 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 53 

The passage of this act and the grant .to the New England Company 
was soon followed by an application to the Government by John Cleves 
Symmes, of New Jersey^ for a grant of the land between the Miamis. 
This gentleman had visited these lands soon after the treaty of 1786, and, 
being greatly pleased with them, offered similar terms to those given to 
the New England Company. The petition was referred to the Treasury 
Board with power to act, and a contract was concluded the following 
year. 

During the Autumn the directors of the New England Company 
were preparing to occupy their grant the following Spring, and upon the 
23d of November made arrangements for a party of forty-seven men, 
under the superintendency of Gen. Rufus Putnam, to set forward. Six 
boat-builders were to leave at once, and on the first of January the sur- 
veyors and their assistants, twenty-six in number, were to meet at Hart- 
ford and proceed on their journey westward ; the remainder to follow as 
soon as possible. Congress, in the meantime, upon the 3d of October, 
had ordered seven hundred troops for defense of the western settlers, and 
to prevent unauthorized intrusions ; and two days later appointed Arthur 
St. Clair Governor of the Territory of the Northwest. 



AMERICAN SETTLEMENTS. 

The civil organization of the Northwest Territory was now com- 
plete, and notwithstanding the uncertainty of Indian affairs, settlers from 
the East began to come into the country rapidly. The New England 
Company sent their men during the Winter of 1787-8 pressing on over 
the Alleghenies by the old Indian path which had been opened into 
Braddock's road, and which has since been made a national turnpike 
from Cumberland westward. Through the weary winter days they toiled 
on, and by April were all gathered on the Youghiogheny, where boats had 
been built, and at once started for the Muskingum. Here they arrived 
on the 7th of that month, and unless the Moravian missionaries be regarded 
as the pioneers of Ohio, this little band can justly claim that honor. 

Gen. St. Clair, the appointed Governor of the Northwest, not having 
yet arrived, a set of laws were passed, written out, and published by 
being nailed to a tree in the embryo town, and Jonathan Meigs appointed 
to administer them. 

Washington in writing of this, the first American settlement in the 
Northwest, said : " No colony in America was ever settled under such 
favorable auspices as that which has just commenced at Muskingum. 
Information, property and strength will be its characteristics. I know 



64 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

many of its settlers personally, and there never were men better calculated 
to promote the welfare of such a community." 

On the 2d of July a meeting of the director^ and agents was held on 
the banks of the Muskingum, " for the purpose of naming the new-born 
city and its squares." As yet the settlement was known as the " Mus- 
kingum," but that was now changed to the name Marietta, in honor 
of Marie Antoinette, The square upon which the block-houses stood 
was called '•''Campus Martins;''^ square number 19, ^^ Cajntoliuni ;^^ 
square number 61, " Cecilia;'' and the great road through the covert 
way, " Sacra Via.^' Two days after, an oration was delivered by James 
M. Varnum, who with S. H. Parsons and John Armstrong had been 
appointed to the judicial bench of the territory on the 16th of October, 
1787. On July 9, Gov. St. Clair arrived, and the colony began to assume 
form. The act of 1787 provided two district grades of government for 
the Northwest, under the first of which the whole power was invested in 
the hands of a governor and three district judges. This was immediately 
formed upon the Governor's arrival, and the first laws of the colony 
passed on the 25th of July. These provided for the organization of 
the militia, and on the next day appeared the Governor's proclamation, 
erecting all that country that had been ceded by the Indians east of the 
Scioto River into the County of Washington. From that time forward^ 
notwithstanding the doubts yet existing as to the Indians, all Marietta 
prospered, and on the 2d of September the first court of the territory was 
held with imposing ceremonies. 

The emigration westward at this time was very great. The com- 
mander at Fort Harmer, at the mouth of the Muskingum, reported four 
thousand five hundred persons as having passed that post between Feb- 
ruary and June, 1788 — many of whom would have purchased of the 
" Associates," as the New England Company was called, had they been 
ready to receive them. 

On the 26th of November, 1787, Sj^mmes issued a pamphlet stating 
the terms of his contract and the plan of sale he intended to adopt. In 
January, 1788, Matthias Denman, of New Jersey, took an active interest 
in Symmes' purchase, and located among other tracts the sections upon 
which Cincinnati has been built. Retaining one-third of this locality, he 
sold the other two-thirds to Robert Patterson and John Filson, and the 
three, about August, commenced to lay out a town on the spot, which 
was designated as being opposite Licking River, to the mouth of which 
they proposed to have a road cut from Lexington. The naming of the 
town is thus narrated in the " Western Annals" : — " Mr. Filson, who had 
been a schoolmaster, was appointed to name the town, and, in respect to 
its situation, and as if with a prophetic perception of the mixed race that 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 55 

were to inhabit it in after days, he named it Losantiville, which, being 
interpreted, means : ville, the town ; anti^ against or opposite to ; os, the 
mouth ; L. of Licking." 

Meanwhile, in July, Symmes got thirty persons and eight four-horse 
teams under way from the West. These reached Limestone (now Mays- 
ville) in September, where were several persons from Redstone. Here 
Mr. Symmes tried to found a settlement, but the great freshet of 1789 
caused the " Point," as it was and is yet .called, to be fifteen feet under 
water, and the settlement to be abandoned. The little band of settlers 
removed to the mouth of the Miami. Before Symmes and his colony left 
the " Point," two settlements had been made on his purchase. The first 
was by Mr. Stiltes, the original projector of the whole plan, who, with a 
colony of Redstone people, had located at the mouth of the Miami, 
whither Symmes went with his Maysville colony. Here a clearing had 
been made by the Indians owing to the great fertility of the soil. Mr. 
Stiltes with his colony came to this place on the 18th of November, 1788, 
with twenty-six persons, and, building a block-house, prepared to remain 
through the Winter. They named the settlement Columbia. Here they 
were kindly treated by the Indians, but suffered greatly from the flood 
of 1789. 

On the 4th of March, 1789, the Constitution of the United States 
went into operation, and on April 30, George Washington was inau- 
gurated President of the American people, and during the next Summer, 
an Indian war was commenced by the tribes north of the Ohio. The 
President at first used pacific means ; but these failing, he sent General 
Harmer against the hostile tribes. He destroyed several villages, but 
was defeated in two battles, near the present City of Fort Wayne, 
Indiana. From this time till the close of 1795, the principal events were 
the wars with the various Indian tribes. In 1796, General St. Clair 
was appointed in command, and marched against the Indians; but while 
he was encamped on a stream, the St. Mary, a branch of the Maumee, 
he was attacked and defeated with the loss of six hundred men. 

General Wayne was now sent against the savages. In August, 1794, 
he met them near the rapids of the Maumee, and gained a complete 
victory. This success, followed by vigorous measures, compelled the 
Indians to sue for peace, and on the 30th of July, the following year, the 
treaty of Greenville was signed by the principal chiefs, by which a large 
tract of country was ceded to the United States. 

Before proceeding in our narrative, we will pause to notice Fort 
Washington, erected in the early part of this war on the site of Cincinnati. 
Nearly all of the great cities of the Northwest, and indeed of the 



56 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

whole country, have had their nuclei in those rude pioneer structures, 
known as forts or stockades. Thus Forts Dearborn, Washington, Pon- 
chartrain, mark the original sites of the now proud Cities of Chicago, 
Cincinnati and Detroit. So of most of the flourishing cities east and west 
of the Mississippi. Fort Washington, erected by Doughty in 1790, was a 
rude but highly interesting structure. It was composed of a number of 
strongly-built hewed log cabins. Those designed for soldiers' barracks 
were a story and a half high, while those composing the officers quarters 
were more imposing and more conveniently arranged and furnished. 
The whole were so placed as to form a hollow square, enclosing about an 
acre of ground, with a block house at each of the four angles. 

The logs for the construction of this fort were cut from the ground 
upon which it was erected. It stood between Third and Fourth Streets 
of the present city (Cincinnati) extending east of Eastern Row, now 
Broadway, which was then a narrow alley, and the eastern boundary of 
of the town as it was originally laid out. On the bank of the river, 
immediately in front of the fort, was an appendage of the fort, called the 
Artificer's Yard. It contained about two acres of ground, enclosed by 
small contiguous buildings, occupied by workshops and quarters of 
laborers. Within this enclosure there was a large two-story frame house, 
familiarly called the " Yellow House," built for the accommodation of 
the Quartermaster General. For many years this was the best finished 
and most commodious edifice in the Queen City. Fort Washington was 
for some time the headquarters of both the civil and military governments 
of the Northwestern Territory. 

Following the consummation of the treaty various gigantic land spec- 
ulations were entered into by different persons, who hoped to obtain 
from the Indians in Michigan and northern Indiana, large tracts of lands. 
These were generally discovered in time to prevent the outrageous 
schemes from being carried out, and from involving the settlers in war. 
On October 27, 1795, the treaty between the United States and Spain 
was signed, whereby the free navigation of the Mississippi was secured. 

No sooner had the treat}'- of 1795 been ratified than settlements began 
to pour rapidly into the West. The great event of the year 1796 was the 
occupation of that part of the Northwest including Michigan, which was 
this year, under the provisions of the treaty, evacuated by the British 
forces. The United States, owing to certain conditions, did not feel 
justified in addressing the authorities in Canada in relation to Detroit 
and other frontier posts. When at last the British authorities were 
called to give them up, they at once complied, and General Wayne, who 
had done so much to preserve the frontier settlements, and who, before 
the year's close, sickened and died near Erie, transferred his head- 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 57 

quarters to the neighborhood of the lakes, where a county named after 
him was formed, which included the northwest of Ohio, all of Michigan, 
and the northeast of Indiana. During this same year settlements were 
formed at the present City of Chillicothe, along the Miami from Middle- 
town to Piqua, while in the more distant West, settlers and speculators 
began to appear in great numbers. In September, the City of Cleveland 
was laid out, and during the Summer and Autumn, Samuel Jackson and 
Jonathan Sharpless erected the first manufactory of paper — the " Red- 
stone Paper Mill" — in the West. St. Louis contained some seventy 
houses, and Detroit over three hundred, and along the river, contiguous 
to it, were more than three thousand inhabitants, mostly French Canadians, 
Indians and half-breeds, scarcely any Americans venturing yet into that 
part of the Northwest. 

The election of representatives for the territory had taken place, 
and on the 4th of February, 1799, they convened at Losantiville — now 
known as Cincinnati, having been named so by Gov. St. Clair, and 
considered the capital of the Territory — to nominate persons from whom 
the members of the Legislature were to be chosen in accordance with 
a previous ordinance. This nomination being made, the Assembly 
adjourned until the 16th of the following September. From those named 
the President selected as members of the council, Henry Vandenburg, 
of Vincennes, Robert Oliver, of Marietta, James Findlay and Jacob 
Burnett, of Cincinnati, and David Vance, of Vanceville. On the 16th 
of September the Territorial Legislature met, and on the 24th the two 
houses were duly organized, Henry Vandenburg being elected President 
of the Council. 

The message of Gov. St. Clair was addressed to the Legislature 
September 20th, and on October 13th that body elected as a delegate to 
Congress Gen. Wm. Henry Harrison, who received eleven of the votes 
cast, being a majority of one over his opponent, Arthur St. Clair, son of 
Gen. St. Clair. 

The whole number of acts passed at this session, and approved by 
the Governor, were thirty-seven — eleven others were passed, but received 
his veto. The most important of those passed related to the militia, to 
the administration, and to taxation. On the 19th of December this pro- 
tracted session of the first Legislature in the West was closed, and on the 
30th of December the President nominated Charles Willing Bryd to the 
office of Secretary of the Territory vice Wm. Henry Harrison, elected to 
Congress. The Senate confirmed his nomination the next day. 



58 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



DIVISION OF THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

The increased emigration to the Northwest, the extent of the domain, 
and the inconvenient modes of travel, made it very difficult to conduct 
the ordinary operations of government, and rendered the efficient action 
of courts almost impossible. To remedy this, it was deemed advisable to 
divide the territory for civil purposes. Congress, in 1800, appointed a 
• committee to examine the question and report some means for its solution. 
This committee, on the 3d of March, reported that : 

"In the three western countries there has been but one court having 
cognizance of crimes, in five years, and the immunity which offenders 
experience attracts, as to an asylum, the most vile and abandoned crim- 
inals, and at the same time deters useful citizens from making settlements 
in such society. The extreme necessity of judiciary attention and assist- 
ance is experienced in civil as well as in criminal cases. * * * * Xo 
minister a remedy to these and other evils, it occurs to this committee 
that it is expedient that a division of said territory into two distinct and 
separate governments should be made ; and that such division be made 
by a line beginning at the mouth of the Great Miami River, running 
directly north until it intersects the boundary between the United States 
and Canada." 

The report was accepted by Congress, and, in accordance with its 
suggestions, that body passed an Act extinguishing the Northwest Terri- 
tory, which Act was approved May 7. Among its provisions were these : 

" That from and after July 4 next, all that part of the Territory of 
the United States northwest of the Ohio River, which lies to the westward 
of a line beginning at a point on the Ohio, opposite to the mouth of the 
Kentucky River, and running thence to Fort Recovery, and thence north 
until it shall intersect the territorial line between the United States and 
Canada, shall, for the purpose of temporary government, constitute a 
separate territory, and be called the Indiana Territory." 

After providing for the exercise of the civil and criminal powers of 
the territories, and other provisions, the Act further provides : 

" That until it shall otherwise be ordered by the Legislatures of the 
said Territories, respectively, Chillicothe on the Scioto River shall be the 
seat of government of the Territory of the United States northwest of the 
Ohio River ; and that St. Vincennes on the Wabash River shall be the 
seat of government for the Indiana Territory." 

Gen. Wm. Henry Harrison was appointed Governor of the Indiana 
Territory, and entered upon his duties about a year later. Connecticut 
also about this time released her claims to the reserve, and in March a law 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 59 

"was passed accepting this cession. Settlements had been made upon 
thirty -five of the townships in the reserve, mills had been built, and seven 
hundred miles of road cut in various directions. On the 3d of November 
the General Assembly met at Chillicothe. Near the close of the year, 
the first missionary of the Connecticut Reserve came, who found no 
township containing more than eleven families. It was upon the first of 
October that the secret treaty had been made between Napoleon and the 
King of Spain, whereby the latter agreed to cede to France the province 
of Louisiana. 

In January, 1802, the Assembly of the Northwestern Territory char- 
tered the college at Athens. From the earliest dawn of the western 
colonies, education was promptly provided for, and as early as 1787, 
newspapers were issued from Pittsburgh and Kentucky, and largely read 
throughout the frontier settlements. Before the close of this year, the 
Congress of the United States granted to the citizens of the Northwestern 
territory the formation of a State government. One of the provisions of 
the "compact of 1787" provided that whenever the number of inhabit- 
ants within prescribed limits exceeded 45,000, they should be entitled to 
a separate government. The prescribed limits of Ohio contained, from a 
census taken to ascertain the legality of the act, more than that number, 
and on the 30th of April, 1802, Congress passed the act defining its limits, 
and on the 29th of November the Constitution of the new State of Ohio, 
so named from the beautiful river forming its southern boundary, came 
into existence. The exact limits of Lake Michigan were not then known, 
but the territory now included within the State of Michigan was wholly 
within the territory of Indiana. 

Gen. Harrison, while residing at Vincennes, made several treaties 
with the Indians, thereby gaining large tracts of lands. The next year is 
memorable in the history of the West for the purchase of Louisiana from 
France by the United States for 815,000,000. Thus by a peaceful mode, 
the domain of the United States was extended over a large tract of 
country west of the Mississippi, and was for a time under the jurisdiction 
of the Northwest government, and, as has been mentioned in the early 
part of this narrative, was called the "New Northwest." The limits 
of this history will not allow a description of its territory. The same year 
large grants of land were obtained from the Indians, and the House of 
Representatives of the new State of Ohio signed a bill respecting the 
College Township in the district of Cincinnati. 

Before the close of the year, Gen. Harrison obtained additional 
grants of lands from the various Indian nations in Indiana and the present 
limits of Illinois, and on the 18th of August, 1804, completed a treaty at 
St. Louis, whereby over 51,000,000 acres of lands were obtained from the 



60 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

aborigines. Measures were also taken to learn the condition of affairs in 
and about Detroit. 

C. Jouett, the Indian agent in Michigan, still a part of Indiana Terri- 
tory, reported as follows upon the condition of matters at that post : 

" The Town of Detroit. — The charter, which is for fifteen miles 
square, was granted in the time of Louis XIV. of France, and is now, 
from the best information I have been able to get, at Quebec. Of those 
two hundred and twenty-five acres, only four are occupied by the town 
and Fort Lenault. The remainder is a common, except twenty-four 
acres, which were added twenty years ago to a farm belonging to Wm. 
Macomb. * * * A stockade incloses the town, fort and citadel. The 
pickets, as well as the public houses, are in a state of gradual decay. The 
streets are narrow, straight and regular, and intersect each other at right 
angles. The houses are, for the most part, low and inelegant." 

During this year, Congress granted a township of land for the sup- 
port of a college, and began to offer inducements for settlers in these 
wilds, and the country now comprising the State of Michigan began to 
fill rapidly with settlers along its southern borders. This same year, also, 
a law was passed organizing the Southwest Territory, dividing it into two 
portions, the Territory of New Orleans, which city was made the seat of 
government, and the District of Louisiana, which was annexed to the 
domain of Gen. Harrison. 

On the 11th of January, 1805, the Territory of Michigan was formed, 
Wm. Hull was appointed governor, with headquarters at Detroit, the 
change to take effect on June 30. On the 11th of that month, a fir& 
occurred at Detroit, which destro5''ed almost every building in the place. 
When the officers of the new territory reached the post, they found it in 
ruins, and the inhabitants scattered throughout the country. Rebuild- 
ing, however, soon commenced, and ere long the town contained more 
houses than before the fire, and many of them much better built. 

While this was being done, Indiana had passed to the second grade 
of government, and through her General Assembly had obtained large 
tracts of land from the Indian tribes. To all this the celebrated Indian, 
Tecumthe or Tecumseh, vigorously protested, and it was the main cause 
of his attempts to unite the various Indian tribes in a conflict with the 
settlers. To obtain a full account of these attempts, the workings of the 
British, and the signal failure, culminating in the death of Tecumseh at 
the battle of the Thames, and the close of the war of 1812 in the Northwest, 
we will step aside in our story, and relate the principal events of his life,, 
and his connection with this conflict. 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 61 



TECUMSEH, AND THE WAR OF 1812. 

This famous Indian chief was born about the year 1768, not far from 
the site of the present city of Springfield, Ohio. His father, Puckeshinwa, 
was a member of the Kisopok tribe of the Swanoese nation, and his 
mother, Methontaske, was a member of the Turtle tribe of the same 
people. They removed from Florida about the middle of the last century 
to the birthplace of Tecumseh. In 1774, his father, who had risen to be 
chief, was slain at the battle of Point Pleasant, and not long after Tecum- 
seh, by his bravery, became the leader of his tribe. In 1795 he was 
declared chief, and then lived at Deer Creek, near the site of the 
present City of Urbana. He remained here about one year, when he 
returned to Piqua, and in 1798, he went to White River, Indiana. In 
1805, he and his brother, Laulewasikan (Open Door), who had announced 
himself as a prophet, went to a tract of land on the Wabash River, given 
them by the Pottawatomies and Kickapoos. From this date the chief 
comes into prominence. He was now about thirty-seven years of age, 
was five feet and ten inches in height, was stoutly built, and possessed of 
enormous powers of endurance. His countenance was naturally pleas- 
ing, and he was, in general, devoid of those savage attributes possessed 
by most Indians. It is stated he could read and write, and had a confi- 
dential secretary and adviser, named Billy Caldwell, a half-breed, who 
afterward became chief of the Pottawatomies. He occupied the first 
house built on the site of Chicago. At this time, Tecumseh entered 
upon the great work of his life. He had long objected to the grants of 
land made by the Indians to the whites, and determined to unite all the 
Indian tribes into a league, in order that no treaties or grants of land 
could be made save by the consent of this confederation. 

He traveled .constantly, going from north to south ; from the south 
to the north, everywhere urging the Indians to this step. He was a 
matchless orator, and his burning words had their effect. 

Gen. Harrison, then Governor of Indiana, by watching the move- 
ments of the Indians, became convinced that a grand conspiracy was 
forming, and made preparations to defend the settlements. Tecumseh's 
plan was similar to Pontiac's, elsewhere described, and to the cunning 
artifice of that chieftain was added his own sagacity. 

During the year 1809, Tecumseh and the prophet were actively pre- 
paring for the work. In that year, Gen. Harrison entered into a treaty 
with the Delawares, Kickapoos, Pottawatomies, Miamis, Eel River Indians 
and Weas, in which these tribes ceded to the whites certain lands upon 
the Wabash, to all of which Tecumseh entered a bitter protest, averring 



62 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

as one principal reason that he did not want the Indians to give up any 
lands north and west of the Ohio River. 

Tecumseh, in Auf^ust, 1810, visited the General at Vincennes and 
held a council relating to the grievances of the Indians. Becoming unduly 
angry at this conference he was dismissed from the village, and soon after 
departed to incite the southern Indian tribes to the conflict. 

Gen. Harrison determined to move upon the chief's headquarters at 
Tippecanoe, and for this purpose went about sixty-five miles up the 
Wabash, where he built Fort Harrison. From this place he went to the 
Prophet's town, where he informed the Indians he had no hostile inten- 
tions, provided they were true to the existing treaties. He encamped 
near the village early in October, and on the morning of November 7, he 
was attacked by a large force of the Indians, and the famous battle of 
Tippecanoe occurred. The Indians were routed and their town broken 
up. Tecumseh returning not long after, was greatly exasperated at his 
brother, the Prophet, even threatening to kill him for rashly precipitating 
the war, and foiling his (Tecumseh's) plans. 

Tecumseh sent word to Gen. Harrison that he was now returned 
from the South, and was ready to visit the President as had at one time 
previously been proposed. Gen. Harrison informed him he could not 
go as a chief, which method Tecumseh desired, and the visit was never 
made. In June of the following year, he visited the Indian agent at 
Fort Wayne. Here he disavowed any intention to make a war against 
the United States, and reproached Gen. Harrison for marching against his 
people. The agent replied to this ; Tecumseh listened with a cold indif- 
ference, and after making a few general remarks, with a haughty air drew 
his blanket about him, left the council house, and departed for Fort Mai- 
den, in Upper Canada, where he joined the British standard. 

In the Summer of 1813, Perry's victory on Lake Erie occurred, and 
shortly after active preparations were made to capture- Maiden. On the 
27th of September, the American army, under Gen. Harrison, set sail for 
the shores of Canada, and in a few hours stood around the ruins of Mai- 
den, from which the British army, under Proctor, had retreated to Sand- 
wich, intending to make its way to the heart of Canada by the Valley of 
the Thames. On the 29th Gen. Harrison was at Sandwich, and Gen. 
Mc Arthur took possession of Detroit and the territory of Michigan. 

The pursuit of Proctor began October 2. He was overtaken on the 
5th at the Thames. Tecumseh fell * in that battle and British power 
was forever broken, Canada alone being left them, as the Americans had 
no orders to follow up their victory eastward. Burr's incipient 
insurrection of 1805 was quelled, and the murderer of the eloquent 
Hamilton driven from his beautiful island fortress in the Ohio River. 

* Supposed at the hands of Col. R. M. Johnson of Kentucky. 



THE NORTHWEST TEREITORY. 63 

In January, 1807, Governor Hull, of Michigan Territory, made a 
treaty with the Indians, whereby all that peninsula was ceded to the 
United States. Before the close of the year, a stockade was built about 
Detroit. It was also during this year that Indiana and Illinois endeavored 
to obtain the repeal of that section of the compact of 1787, whereby 
slavery was excluded from the Northwest Territory. These attempts, 
however, all signally failed. 

In 1809 it was deemed advisable to divide the Indiana Territory. 
This was done, and the Territory of Illinois was formed from the western 
part, the seat of government being fixed at Kaskaskia. The next year, 
the intentions of Tecumseh manifested themselves in open hostilities, and 
then began the events already narrated. 

While this war was in progress, emigration to the West went on with 
surprising rapidity. In 1811, under Mr. Roosevelt of New York, the 
first steamboat trip was made on the Ohio, much to the astonishment of 
the natives, many of whom fled in terror at the appearance of the 
" monster." It arrived at Louisville on the 10th day of October. At the 
close of the first week of January, 1812, it arrived at Natchez, after being 
nearly overwhelmed in the great earthquake which occurred while on its 
downward trip. 

The battle of the Thames was fought on October 6, 1813. It 
effectually closed hostilities in the Northwest, although peace was not 
fully restored until July 22, 1814, when a treaty was formed at Green- 
ville, under the direction of General Harrison, between the United States 
and the Indian tribes, in which it was stipulated that the Indians should 
cease hostilities against the Americans if the war were continued. Such, 
happily, was not the case, and on the 24th of December the treaty 
of Ghent was signed by the representatives of England and the United 
States. This treaty was followed the next year by treaties with various 
Indian tribes throughout the West and Northwest, and quiet was again 
restored in this part of the new world. 

On the 18th of March, 1816, Pittsburgh was incorporated as a city. 
It then had a population of 8,000 people, and was already noted for its 
manufacturing interests. On April 19, Indiana Territory was allowed 
to form a state government. At that time there were thirteen counties 
organized, containing about sixty-three thousand inhabitants. Th« first 
election of state officers was held in August, when Jonathan Jennings 
was chosen Governor. The officers were sworn in on November 7, and 
on December 11, the State was formally admitted into the Union. For 
some time the seat of government was at Corydon, but a more central 
location being desirable, the present capital, Indianapolis (City of Indiana),, 
was laid out January 1, 1825. 



64 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

On the 28th of December the Bank of Illinois, at Shawneetown, was 
chartered, with a capital of $300,000. At this period all banks were 
under the control of the States, and were allowed to establish branches 
at different convenient points. 

Until this time Chillicothe and Cincinnati had in turn enjoyed the 
privileges of being the capital of Ohio. But the rapid settlement of the 
northern and eastern portions of the State demanded, as in Indiana, a 
more central location, and before the close of the year, the site of Col- 
umbus was selected and surveyed as the future capital of the State. 
Banking had begun in Ohio as early as 1808, when the first bank was 
chartered at Marietta, but here as elsewhere it did not bring to the state 
the hoped-for assistance. It and other banks were subsequently unable 
to redeem their currency, and were obliged to suspend. 

In 1818, Illinois was made a state, and all the territory north of her 
northern limits was erected into a separate territory and joined to Mich- 
igan for judicial purposes. By the following year, navigation of the lakes 
was increasing with great rapidity and affording an immense source of 
revenue to the dwellers in the Northwest, but it was not until 1826 that 
the trade was extended to Lake Michigan, or that steamships began to 
navigate the bosom of that inland sea. 

Until the year 1832, the commencement of the Black Hawk War, 
but few hostilities were experienced with the Indians. Roads were 
opened, canals were dug, cities were built, common schools were estab- 
lished, universities were founded, many of which, especially the Michigan 
University, have achieved a world wide-reputation. The people were 
becoming wealthy. The domains of the United States had been extended, 
and had the sons of the forest been treated with honesty and justice, the 
record of many years would have been that of peace and continuous pros- 
perity. 

BLACK HAWK AND THE BLACK HAWK WAR. 

This conflict, though confined to Illinois, is an important epoch in 
the Northwestern history, being the last war with the Indians in this part 
of the United States. 

Ma-ka-tai-me-she-kia-kiah, or Black Hawk, was born in the principal 
Sac village, about three miles from the junction of Rock River with the 
Mississippi, in the year 1767. His father's name was Py-e-sa or Pahaes ; 
his grandfather's, Na-na-ma-kee, or the Thunderer. Black Hawk early 
distinguished himself as a warrior, and at the age of fifteen was permitted 
to paint and was ranked among the braves. About the year 1783, he 
went on an expedition against the enemies of his nation, the Osages, one 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 65 

of whom he killed and scalped, and for this deed of Indian bravery he was 
permitted to join in the scalp dance. Three or four years after he, at the 
head of two hundred braves, went on another expedition against the 
Osages, to avenge the murder of some women and children belonging to 
his own tribe. Meeting an equal number of Osage warriors, a fierce 
battle ensued, in which the latter tribe lost one-half their number. The 
Sacs lost only about nineteen warriors. He next attacked the Cherokees 
for a similar cause. In a severe battle with them, near the present City 
of St. Louis, his father was slain, and Black Hawk, taking possession of 
the " Medicine Bag," at once announced himself chief of the Sac nation. 
He had now conquered the Cherokees, and about the year 1800, at the 
head of five hundred Sacs and Foxes, and a hundred lowas, he waged 
war against the Osage nation and subdued it. For two years he battled 
successfully with other Indian tribes, all of whom he conquered. 

Black Hawk does not at any time seem to have been friendly to 
the Americans. When on a visit to St. Louis to see his " Spanish 
Father," he declined to see any of the Americans, alleging, as a reason^ 
he did not want two fathers. 

The treaty at St. Louis was consummated in 1804. The next year the 
United States Government erected a fort near the head of the Des Moines 
Rapids, called Fort Edwards. This seemed to enrage Black Hawk, who 
at once determined to capture Fort Madison, standing on the west side of 
the Mississippi above the mouth of the Des Moines River. The fort was 
garrisoned by about fifty men. Here he was defeated. The difficulties 
with the British Government arose about this time, and the War of 1812 
followed. That government, extending aid to the Western Indians, by 
giving them arms and ammunition, induced them to remain hostile to the 
Americans. In August, 1812, Black Hawk, at the head of about five 
hundred braves, started to join the British forces at Detroit, passing on 
his way the site of Chicago, where the famous Fort Dearborn Massacre 
had a few days before occurred. Of his connection with the British 
Government but little is known. In 1813 he with his little band descended 
the Mississippi, and attacking some United States troops at Fort Howard 
was defeated. 

In the early part of 1815, the Indian tribes west of the Mississippi 
were notified that peace had been declared between the United States 
and England, and nearly all hostilities had ceased. Black Hawk did not 
sign any treaty, however, until May of the following year. He then recog- 
nized the validity of the treaty at St. Louis in 1804. From the time of 
signing this treaty in 1816, until the breaking out of the war in 1832, he 
and his band passed their time in the common pursuits of Indian life. 

Ten years before the commencement of this war, the Sac and Fox 



66 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

Indians were urged to join the lowas on the west bank of the Father of 
Waters. All were agreed, save the band known as the British Band, of 
which Black Hawk was leader. He strenuously objected to the removal, 
and was induced to comply only after being threatened with the power of 
the Government. This and various actions on the part of the white set- 
tlers provoked Black Hawk and his band to attempt the capture of hit> 
native village now occupied by the whites. The war followed. He and 
his actions were undoubtedly misunderstood, and had his wishes been 
acquiesced in at the beginning of the struggle, much bloodshed would 
have been prevented. 

Black Hawk was chief now of the Sac and Fox nations, and a noted 
warrior. He and his tribe inhabited a village on Rock River, nearly three 
miles above its confluence with the Mississippi, where the tribe had lived 
many generations. When that portion of Illinois was reserved to them» 
they remained in peaceable possession of their reservation, spending their 
time in the enjoyment of Indian life. The fine situation of their village 
and the quality of their lands incited the more lawless white settlers, who 
from time to time began to encroach upon the red men's domain. From 
one pretext to another, and from one step to another, the crafty white 
men gained a foothold, until through whisky and artifice they obtained 
deeds from many of the Indians for their possessions. The Indians were 
finally induced to cross over the Father of Waters and locate among the 
lowas. Black Hawk was strenuously opposed to all this, but as the 
authorities of Illinois and the United States thought this the best move, he 
was forced to comply. Moreover other tribes joined the whites and urged 
the removal. Black Hawk would not agree to the terms of the treaty 
made with his nation for their lands, and as soon as the military, called to 
enforce his removal, had retired, he returned to the Illinois side of the 
river. A large force was at once raised and marched against him. On 
the evening of May 14, 1832, the first engagement occurred between a 
band from this army and Black Hawk's band, in which the former were 
defeated. 

This attack and its result aroused the whites. A large force of men 
was raised, and Gen. Scott hastened from the seaboard, by way of the 
lakes, with United States troops and artillery to aid in the subjugation of 
the Indians. On the 24th of June, Black Hawk, with 200 warriors, was 
repulsed by Major Demont between Rock River and Galena, The Ameri- 
can army continued to move up Rock River toward the main body of 
the Indians, and on the 21st of July came upon Black Hawk and his band, 
and defeated them near the Blue Mounds. 

Before this action, Gen. Henry, in command, sent word to the main 
army by whom he was immediately rejoined, and the v/hole crossed the 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 67 

Wisconsin in pursuit of Black Hawk and his band who were fleeing to the 
Mississippi. They were overtaken on the 2d of August, and in the battle 
which followed the power of the Indian chief was completely broken. He 
fled, but was seized by the Winnebagoes and delivered to the whites. 

On the 21st of September, 1832, Gen. Scott and Gov. Reynolds con- 
cluded a treaty with the Winnebagoes, Sacs and Foxes by which they 
ceded to the United States a vast tract of country, and agreed to remain 
peaceable with the whites. For the faithful performance of the provi- 
sions of this treaty on the part of the Indians, it was stipulated that 
Black Hawk, his two sons, the prophet Wabokieshiek, and six other chiefs 
of the hostile bands should be retained as hostages duriijg the pleasure 
of the President. They were confined at Fort Barracks and put in irons. 

The next Springy, by order of the Secretary of War, they were taken 
to Washington. From there they were removed to Fortress Monroe, 
"there to remain until the conduct of their nation was such as to justify 
their being set at liberty." They were retained here until the 4th of 
June, when the authorities directed them to be taken to the principal 
cities so that they might see the folly of contending against the white 
people. Everywhere they were observed by thousands, the name of the 
old chief being extensively known. By the middle of August they 
reached Fort Armstrong on Rock Island, where Black Hawk was soon 
after released to go to his countrymen. As he passed the site of his birth- 
place, now the home of the white man, he was deeply moved. His village 
where he was born, where he had so happily lived, and where he had 
hoped to die, was now another's dwelling place, and he was a wanderer. 

On the next day after his release, he went at once to his tribe and 
his lodge. His wife was yet living, and with her he passed the remainder 
of his days. To his credit it may be said that Black Hawk always re- 
mained true to his wife, and served her with a devotion uncommon among 
the Indians, living with her upward of forty years. 

Black Hawk now passed his time hunting and fishing. A deep mel- 
ancholy had settled over him from which he could not be freed. At all 
times when he visited the whites he was received with marked atten- 
tion. He was an honored guest at the old settlers' reunion in Lee County, 
Illinois, at some of their meetings, and received many tokens of esteem. 
In September, 1838, while on his way to Rock Island to receive his 
annuity from the Government, he contracted a severe cold which resulted 
in a fatal attack of bilious fever which terminated his life on October 3. 
His faithful wife, who was devotedly attached to him, mourned deeply 
during his sickness. After his death he was dressed in the uniform pre- 
sented to him by the President while in Washington. He was buried iu 
a grave six feet in depth, isituated upon a beautiful eminence. " The 



68 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

body was placed in the middle of the grave, in a sitting posture, upon a 
seat constructed for the purpose. On his left side, the cane, given him 
by Henry Clay, was placed upright, with his right hand resting upon it. 
Many of the old warrior's trophies were placed in the grave, and some 
Indian garments, together with his favorite weapons." 

No sooner was the Black Hawk war concluded than settlers began 
rapidly to pour into the northern parts of Illinois, and into Wisconsin, 
now free from Indian depredations. Chicago, from a trading post, had 
grown to a commercial center, and was rapidly coming into prominence. 
In 1835, the formation of a State Government in Michigan was discussed, 
but did not take active form until two years later, when the State became 
a part of the Federal Union. 

The main attraction to that portion of the Northwest lying west of 
Lake Michigan, now included in the State of Wisconsin, was its alluvial 
wealth. Copper ore was found about Lake Superior. For some time this 
region was attached to Michigan for judiciary purposes, but in 1830 was 
made a territory, then including Minnesota and Iowa. The latter State 
was detached two years later. In 1848, Wisconsin was admitted as a 
State, Madison being made the capital. We have now traced the various 
divisions of the Northwest Territory (save a little in Minnesota) from 
the time it was a unit comprising this vast territory, until circumstances 
compelled its present division. 



69 



POPULATION OF THE UNITED STATES. 



STATES AND 
TERRITORIES. 



STATES. 

Alabama 

Arkansas 

California 

Colorado 

Connecticut 

Delaware 

Florida 

Georgia 

Illinois 

Indiana 

Iowa 

Kansas 

Kentucky 

Louisiana 

Maine 

Maryland 

Massachusetts .... 

Michigan 

Minnesota 

Mississippi 

Missouri 

Nebraska 

Nevada 

New Hampshire. 

New Jersey 

New York 

North Carolina... 
Ohio 



AREA IN 
SQUARE 
MILES. 



POPULATION. 



996,992 
484,471 
560,247 



537,454 

125,015 

187,748 

1,184,109 

2,539,891 

1,680,637 

1,191,792 

364,399 

1,3^,011 

7-.i6,915 

626,915 

760,894 

l,457,.3ol 

1,184,069 

409, 706 

827,922 

1,721,295 

123,993 

42,491 

318,300 

906,096 

4,382,759 

1,071,361 

2,665,260 



MIL'S 

R. R. 

1882. 



1,262,5051,802 
8u2,ojo l,o»l 
864,694 2,266 



194,32 

622,700 

146,608 

269,493 
1,542,180 
3,077,871 
1,978,301 
1,624,615 

996,096 
1,648,69011,714 

939,946j 999 

648.936 1,021 

934,943il,047 
1,783,085 1,934 



2,274 

958 

278 

793 

2,581 

8,325 

4,764 

6,112 

3,718 



1,606,93/ 

780,773 
1,131,597 
2,168,380 

452,402 
62,266 

346,991 
1,131,116 
5,082,87i;6,278 
1,399,750 1,619 
3,198,06216,663 



4,2fe3 
3,390 
1,231 
4,211 
2,310 
890 
l,0z5 
1,753 



STATES AND 
TERRITORIES. 



STATES. 

Oregon 

Pennsylvania .... 

Khode Island 

South Carolina.. 

Tennessee 

Texas 

Vermont 

Virginia 

West Virginia.... 
Wisconsin 

Total States .. 

TERRITORIES. 

Arizona , 

Colorada 

Dakota 

Districtof Columbia 

Idaho 

Montana 

New Mexico 

Utah 

Washington 

Wyoming 

Total Territories 



Aggregate of U. S... 2,915,203 



AREA IN 
SQUARE 
MILES. 



95,244 
46,000 
1,306 
29,385 
45,600 
237,504 
10,212 
40,904 
23,000 
53,924 



1,950,171 



113,916 
104,500 
147,490 
60 
90,932 
143,776 
121,201 
80,056 
69,944 
93,10" 



965,032 



POPULATION. 



90,923 

3,521,791 
217,353 
705,606 

1,258,520 
818,579 
330,551 

1,225,163 
442,014 

1,054,670 



38,113,253 



9,658 
39,864 
14,181 
131,700 
14,999 
20,595 
91,874 
86,786 
23,955 

9,118 



442,730 



174,768 
4,282,891 

276,531 

995,577 
1,542,359 
1,591,749 

332,286 
1,512,565 

618,457 
1,315,497 



MIL'S 
R. R. 

1882. 



40,440 



135,177 
177,624 
32,610 
39,159 
119,565 
143,963 
75,116 
20,789 



38,555,983 50,155,783 



689 
6,690 

211 
1,483 
1,973 
5,344 

915 
2,193 

711 
3,441 



557 



265 
231 
975 
908 
479 
533 



PRINCIPAL COUNTRIES OF THE WORLD. 

POPULATION AND AREA. 



COUNTRIES. 



POPULATION 



China 

British India 

Russia 

United States — with Alaska 

German Empire 

Turkey 

Austria and Hungary , 

France 

Japan 

Cxreat Britain and Ireland.., 

Italy 

Egypt 

Spain 

Mexico 

Brazil 

Persia 

Sweden and Norway 

Belgium < 

Roumania 

Portugal 

Dominion of Canada 

Netherlands 

Switzerland 

Peru , 

Bolivia 

Chili 

Venezuela 

Greece 

Denmark 

Argentine Confederation .... 

Servia 

Guatemala. 

Ecuador 

Liberia 

Hayti 

San Salvador 

Uruguay 

Nicaragua 

Honduras 

San Domingo 

Costa Rica 



380,627,183 

254,899,516 

98,297,407 

50,442,066 

45,234,061 

42,213,400 

37,786,246 

37,405,240 

35,925,313 

35,262,762 

28,452,639 

16,952,000 

16,625,860 

10,025,649 

9,883,622 

7,653,600 

6,497,245 

5,519,844 

5,290,000 

4,348,551 

4,324,810 

4,114,077 

2,846,102 

2,699,945 

2,300,000 

2,223,434 

2,075,245 

1,979,305 

1,969,039 

1,859,685 

1,700,211 

1,252,497 

1,066,137 

1,050,000 

800,000 

554.785 

438,245 

3.50.000 

350,000 

300,000 

180,000 



1881 
1881 
1879 
1880 
1880 
1881 
1880 
1881 
1879 
1881 
1881 
1875 
1877 
1881 
1872 
1881 
1881 
1880 
1878 
1878 
1881 
1881 
1880 
1876 



1881 
1881 
1880 
1869 
1880 
1881 
1875 



1878 
1880 



AREA OP 
SQUARE 
MILES. 



4,413,788 

1,425,723 

8,387,816 

3,602,990 

212,091 

2,396,692 

240,942 

204,092 

148,700 

120,879 

114,296 

1,406,250 

182,750 

743,948 

3,287,963 

610,000 

293,848 

11,373 

48,307 

36,510 

3,470,392 

12,648 

15,992 

503,718 



207,350 

439,120 

25,041 

13,784 

1,204,486 

20,850 

41,830 

248,372 

14,300 

10,204 

7,225 

73,538 

49,500 

39,600 

18,045 

26,040 



CAPITALS. 



Pekin 

Calcutta 

St Petersburg (1881) 

Washington 

Berlin 

Constantinople 

Vienna 

Paris 

Yeddo 

London 

Florence 

Cairo 

Madrid 

Mexico 

Rio de Janiero 

Teheran 

Stockholm 

Brussels 

Bucharest 

Lisbon 

Ottawa 

Amsterdam 

Geneva 

Lima 

La Paz 

Santiago 

Caraccas 

Athens 

Copenhagen 

Buenos Ayres (1881)....... 

Belgrade 

Santiago de Guatemala. 

Quito 

Monrovia 

Port au'Prince 

San Salvador 

Montevideo 

Managua 

Tegucigalpa 

San Domingo 

San Jose 



POPU- 
LATION. 



2,000,000 
500,000 
876,575 
147,293 

1,122,360 
800,000 

1,103,857 

2,269,023 
200,000 

4,764,312 
169,000 
250,000 
397,690 
315,996 
274,972 
200,000 
168,775 
350,000 
221,805 
246,343 
27,412 
328,047 
68,320 
101,488 



387,081 

60,000 

63,374 

234,850 

289.925 

27,000 

55,728 

70,000 

13,000 

22,000 

18,500 

73,353 

8,000 

12,000 

10,000 

2,500 



POPULATION OF OHIO BY COUNTIES. 



The State 



Adams 

Allen 

Aahland 

As ti tabula... 

Athens 

Auglaize ... 

Belmont 

Brown 

Butler 

Carroll ... . 
Champaign . 

Clark 

Clermont ... 

CUnton 

Columbiaua 
Coshoctou .. 
Crawford . . . 
Cuyahoga .. 

Darke 

Dertance 

Delaware ... 

Erie 

Fairfield 

Fayette 

Franklin 

Fulton 

Gallia 

Geauga 

Greene 

Guernsey ... 
Hamilton ... 

Hancock 

Hardin 

Harrison 

Henry 

Highland 

Hocking 

Holmes 

Huron 



Jackson .. 
.Jefferson.. 

Knox 

Lake 

Lawrence 
Licking .. 

Logan 

Lorain 



Lucas. 

Madison 

Mahoning 

Mirion 

Medina 

Meigs 

.Mercer 

Miami 

Monroe 

Montgomery. 

Morgan 

Morrow 

Muskingum . 

Noble 

Ottawa 

Paulding 

Perry 

Pickaway . . 

Pike 

Portage 

Preble 

Putnam 

Richland 

Koes. 



Sandusky ... 

Scioto 

Seneca 

Shelby 

Stark 

umniit 

Trumbull ... 
Tuscarawas . 

Union 

Van Wert . . . 

Vinton 

Warren 

Washington . 

Wayne 

Williams 

Wood 

Wyandot 



7382 
6338 



20329 
13356 
21746 



8479 
9.i33 
15820 

22033 
7086 



6328 
3717 



16633 
6316 

10292 



10529 
9292 
31764 



12308 
2130 



66T5 
3746 
18531 
8326 



3499 
11861 
3181 



3082 
4480 



8851 
4645 
15999 
5297 



17824 



8429 
13149 

4253 
10095 
10237 



9169 

20619 

852 

5750 



2106 
12406 



15546 
8328 
1996 



17837 
10425 
11933 



12281 
578 



14584 
9787 



28827 
17867 
27142 



12131 
13114 
20466 
11436 
35f92 
11161 

4791 
10373 

6204 



11504 



24786 
8182 
14741 



9733 

15813 
14801 
18036 
52317 
813 
210 
20916 
262 
16»45 
4008 
9135 
13.'J41 
5941 
22489 
17085 



5367 
20869 
6440 
5696 



6190 



6551 
7560 
6158 
1110 
12807 
8768 
24362 
11800 



29334 



161 
13970 
16001 
6024 
18826 
16291 

230 
24(Xt6 
24068 
285 1 

5159 
3671 
26588 



26153 

1429'< 

3192 

49 



21468 
11731 
23333 
387 
1102 



13183 
9079 



23724 
19109 



30901 
22715 
28173 
1S108 
16721 
16882 
23106 
15719 
40:i7S 
21590 
13152 
26506 
13282 



22060 
12599 
31924 
10984 
25049 



ViUi 

16297 
175-28 
27748 
60145 

9986 

4598 
20099 

2503 
22269 

9741 
18088 
23933 

9744 
25030 
29579 
13719 

9738 
35096 
14015 
18467 

9382 

9025 



14765 
18352 
11452 
8277 
19688 
18521 
31938 
20852 



38749 



2248 
1034 
19344 
19725 
7626 
22965 
19482 
5189 
44532 
27460 
10182 
11192 
18128 
12154 
34*03 
22560 
38107 
25631 
8422 
1577 



23141 
20823 



4465 
5357 



1980329 



18883 
12109 
23813 
28767 
18215 
11338 
34600 
27332 
30789 
17685 
19782 
22178 
30155 
18838 
33621 
25674 
18177 
48099 
20276 

6966 
21817. 
18568 
30264 
12726 
42909 

7781 
17063 
17827 
21946 
30438 
156844 
16751 

8251 
20157 

3434 
25781 
14119 
20452 
26203 
12719 
29133 
28872 
14654 
15246 
38846 
19162 
26086 
12363 
10015 
23735 
12618 
24441 
17971 

7712 
24999 
28351 
38218 
28585 
20280 
45049 



3308 
1766 
20775 

2vm 

10953 
24419 
21736 
7221 
30879 
32074 
14305 
18428 
27104 
13958 
398;8 
27485 
30490 
31761 
12204 
4793 
9353 
25560 
29540 
32981 
8018 
9157 
11194 



2339511 



2665260 



20309 
19185 
22951 
31814 
21364 
17187 
36398 
29958 
35840 
15738 
22693 
25300 
33034 
21461 
32836 
25032 
23881 
78033 
26009 
11886 
2390-.> 
24474 
30533 
15935 
50361 
14043 
32043 
15817 
26197 
24474 
216410 
22886 
13570 
19110 

8901 
27773 
17057 
20589 
26616 
17941 
26115 
27735 
15576 
2.3249 
37011 
20996 
29744 
25831 
13015 
25894 
15490 
22517 
26534 
14104 
29959 
25741 
52230 
22119 
20445 
44416 
20751 

7016 

4945 
19678 
23469 
131)43 
24208 
21820 
12808 
31158 
35071 
21429 
24297 
30868 
17493 
42978 
27344 
30656 
32463 
16507 
10238 
13631 
2690-2 
36268 
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17886 
13,596 



20750 
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21933 
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32070 
54268 
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3-2278 
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17170 
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17789 
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28038 
2.3838 

260370 
23847 
18714 
18682 
14028 
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179-25 
18177 
28532 
21759 
29188 
26333 
15935 
31380 
35756 
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46722 
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25779 
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20363 
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44886 
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8544 
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21809 
17081 
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37097 
25503 
29302 
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20748 
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.351 16 
20991 
24396 
18553 



PART II 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO, 



GOVERNORS. 



From the organization of the first civil government in the Northwest Territory, of which the State of Ohio 
was a part, until the year 1884. 

Term, Two Years. 



NAME. 



Hamilton. 

Ross 

Adams 



Arthur St. Clair (1) 

Charles W. Byrd (2)..., 

Edward Tiffin (3) 

Thomas Kirker (4) 

Samuel Huntington Trumbull . 

Return Jonathan Meigs (5)..}Washington.. 

Othniel Looker* Hamilton 

Thomas Worthington jRoss 

Ethan Allen Brown (6) , Hamilton 

Allen Trimble* JHighland 

Jeremiah Morrow Warren.. 

Allen Trimble 

Duncan McArthur 

Robert Lucas 

Joseph Vance , 

Wilson Shannon 

Thomas Corwin 

Wilson Shannon (7) ... 
Thomas W. Bartley*... 



Highland ... 

Ross 

Pike 

Champaign. 

Belmont 

Warren 

Belmont 

Richland 



1788-1802 

1802-1803 

1803-1807 

1807-1808 

1808-1810 

1810-1814 

1814 

1814-1818 

1818-182.2 

l.<^22 

1822-1826 

1826-1830 

1830-1832 

1832-1836 

1836-1838 

1838-1840 

1840-1842 

1842-1844 

1844 



NAME. 



Mordecai Bartley Richland 

William Bebb JButler 

Seabury Ford (8) .Geauga 

Reuben Wood (9) Cuyahoga 

William Medill (10) 'Fairfield 

Salmon P. Chase jHamilton 

William Dennison iFranklin 

David Tod Mahoning, 

.John Brough (11) iCuyahoga 

Charles Andersonf jMontgomery.... 

Jacob D. Co.x Trumbull 

Rutherford B. Hayes Hamilton 

Edward F. Noyes iHamilton 

William Allen iRoss 

Rutherford B. Hayes (12)....|Sandusky 

Thomas L. Youngf Hamilton 

Richard M. Bishop Hamilton 

Charles Foster jseneca 

George Hoadly Hamilton 



1844-1846 
1846-1849 
1849-1850 
1850-1853 
1853-1856 
1856-1860 
1860-1862 
1862-1864 
18G4-1865 
1865-1866 
1866-1868 
1868-1872 
1872-1874 
1874-1876 
1876-1877 
1877-1878 
1878-1880 
1880-1884 
1884- 



(1) Arthur St. Clair, of Pennsylvania, was Governor of the Northwest Territory, of which Ohio was a part, 
from July 13, 1788, when the first civil government was established in the Territory, until about the close of 
the year 1802, when he was removed by the President. 

(2) Secretary of the Territory, and was acting Governor of the Territory after the removal of Gov. St. 
Clair. 

(3) Resigned March 3, 1807, to accept the office of United States Senator. 

(4) Return Jonathan Meigs was elected Governor on the second Tuesday of October, 1807, over Nathaniel 
Massie, who contested the election of Meigs on the ground " that he had not been a resident of this State for 
four years next preceding the election as required by the Constitution," and the General Assembly, in joint 
convention, decided that he was not eligible. The office was not given to Massie, nor does it appear from the 
records that he claimed it, but Thomas Kirker, Acting Governor, continued to discharge the duties of the office 
until December 12, 1808, when Samuel Huntington was inaugurated, he having been elected on the second 
Tuesday of October in that year. 

(5) Resigned March 25, 1814, to accept the office of Postmaster-General of the United States. 

(6) Resigned January 4, 1822, to accept the office of United States Senator. 

(7) Resigned April 13, 1844, to accept the office of Minister to Mexico. 

(8) The result of the election in 1848 was not finally determined in joint convention of the two houses of 
the General Assembly until January 19, 1849, and the inauguration did not take placa until the 22d of that 
month. 

(9) Resigned July 15, 1853, to accept the office of Consul to "Valparaiso. 

(10) Elected in October, 1853, for the regular term, to commence on the second Monday of January, 1854. 

(11) Died August 29, 1865. 

(12) Resigned March 2, 1877, to accept the office of President of the United States. 
* Acting Governor. Succeeded to office, being the Speaker of the Senate. 

t Acting Governor. Succeeded to office, being the Lieutenant-Governor. 



72 



HISTOEY OF OHIO. 



IT is not our province in a volume of this description, to delineate the chronol- 
ogy of prehistoric epochs, or to dwell at length upon those topics pertaining 
to the scientific causes which tended to the formation of a continent, undiscov- 
ered for centuries, by the wisdom and energy of those making a history of the 
Old World, by the advancement of enlightenment in tne Eastern Hemisphere. 
Naturally, the geological formation of the State of Ohio cannot be entirely 
separated from facts relative to the strata, which, in remote ages accumulated 
one layer above the other, and finally constituted a "built-up" America, from 
a vast sea. The action of this huge body of water washed sediment and what- 
ever came in its way upon primitive rocks, which were subjected to frequent 
and repeated submersions, emerging as the water subsided, thus leaving a 
stratum or layer to solidify and mark its number in the series — a system of 
growth repeated in trees of the forest — in those descernible rings that count so 
many years. The southeastern part of North America emerging a second 
time from the Silurian Sea, which extended west to the Rocky Mountains and 
north to the primitive hills of British America, a succession of rock -bound, 
salt-water lakes remained. These covered a large portion of the continent, and 
their water evaporating, organic and mineral matter remained to solidify., This 
thick stratum has been designated by geologists as the water-lime layer. This 
constitutes the upper layer of rock in the larger portion of the west half of 
Ohio. In other sections it forms the bed rock. 

Following the lime-rock deposit, must have been more frequent sweeps of 
the great sea, since the layers are comparatively thin, proving a more speedy 
change. During this scientific rising and falling of the sea, other actions were 
taking place, such as volcanic and other influences which displaced the regular- 
ity of the strata, and occasionally came out in an upheaval or a regular perpen- 
dicular dip. A disturbance of this character formed the low mountain range 
extending from the highlands of Canada to the southern boundary of Tennes- 
see. This "bulge" is supposed to be the consequence of the cooling of the 
earth and the pressure of the oceans on either side of the continent. Geolo- 
gists designate this as the Cincinnati arch. This forms a separation between 
the coal fields of the Alleghanies and those of Llinois. 

Passing over several periods, we reach the glacial, during which the topog- 
raphy of the continent was considerably modified, and which is among the 
latest epochs of geology, though exceedingly remote as compared with human 

73 



74 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

history. Previously, a torrid heat prevailed the entire Northern hemisphere. 
Now the temperature of the frigid zone crept southward until it reached Cincin- 
nati. A vast field of ice, perhaps hundreds of feet thick, extended from the 
north pole to this point. As this glacial rigor came southward, the flow of 
the St. Lawrence River was stopped, and the surplus water of the great lake 
basin was turned into the Ohio and Mississippi. This glacial sea was by no 
means stationary even after its southern limit had been reached. It possessed 
the properties of a solid and a fluid. Its action was slow but powerful, grind- 
ing mountains to powder and forming great valleys and basins. Separating 
into two glacial portions, one moved toward the watershed north of the Ohio 
River ; and, continuing westerly, it hollowed out the basin of Lake Erie and 
crushed the apex of the Cincinnati arch. From this point, it turned south- 
ward and swept with a regular course through the Maumee and Miami Valleys 
to the Ohio River. The southern border constantly melting, and flowing toward 
the Gulf of Mexico, the great field was pressed forward by the accumulations 
of ice in the northern latitudes. Thus for ages, this powerful force was fitting 
the earth for the habitation of man. The surface was leveled, huge rocks 
broken and reduced to pebbles, sand, clay, etc., other soil and surface-material — 
■while the debris was embedded at the bottom. In some sections, as the ice 
melted and freed the bowlders and rocks, the lighter material was swept away. 
The glacier moving forward, and the forces proving an " equilibrium," the 
edge of this ice-field was held in a solid stronghold, and the material thus de- 
posited forms a ridge, called by geologists "terminal moraine," first exemplified 
in Ohio by the "Black Swamp," in the Maumee Valley. 

The most extreme rigor of this period beginning to wane, the ice of the 
Maumee and Miami Valleys began to move slowly forward, toward the north, 
reaching the points now termed Hudson, Mich.; Fort Wayne, Ind., and Kenton, 
Ohio — reaching somewhat further south than Lima and Van "Wert. The edge of 
the glacier was defined in outline by the present western border of Lake Erie, and 
parallel with it. Climatic influences " acting and counteracting," the glacial 
force was concentrated, the Maumee A^alley being subjected to a grinding proc- 
ess, and a deposit of material going on, which now forms the boundary of the 
"Black Swamp." As our readers are aware, the waters of the St. Joseph and 
St. Mary's meet at Fort Wayne, and their united waters form the Maumee ; 
thence the turn is northwest, and, wearing an outlet through the ridge, it 
reaches the head of Lake Erie. 

The torrid zone yet gaining the ascendency, the ice-fields continuing their 
reverse motion, and retreating toward the north, the basin of the great lakes 
was formed ; and the blocks of ice melting therein, a vast sea of fresh water was 
formed, which gradually overflowed a portion of Canada and Michigan, But 
the St. Lawrence, that important outlet, was under the restraint of an ice 
blockade, and the surplus water of the fresh sea was turned into the Ohio and 
and Mississippi. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 75 

Later, mountains of ice-float were drifted from the north by winds and cur- 
rents, into temperate latitudes, and melting, deposited rocks, stones and general 
debris. Following the iceberg-drift, came the permanent elevation above the ocean- 
level. The St. Lawrence outlet was formed. The inland sea was assuming its 
division into lakes. The united waters of Erie and Huron flowed through the 
IVabash Valley and into the Ohio, until, through some agency, that section was 
dry, and the lakes drained in another direction. The action of the glacial 
period in the Erie basin vicinity created what is known as the " Niagara lime- 
stone," by grinding upper strata and drifting the debris elsewhere. This seems 
to have occurred at intervals, exposures being made in Seneca, Sandusky and 
Wood Counties, and beneath the axis of the Cincinnati arch. Oriskany lime- 
stone is also available in another stratum, which has been brought to the surface. 
Again, there is a carboniferous stratum of limestone, and along the Maumee is 
a thin exposure of the Hamilton limestone and shale. 

A glacier having both fluid and solid properties, it will readily be compre- 
iended that obdurate projections of rock resisted its action, and created currents 
in other directions, for its forces. When this specified epoch had ceased to be, 
Ohio was a rough, irregular and crude mixture of ridges and knobs and pinnacles, 
which were " leveled up " and finished by iceberg-drift and inland-sea deposits. 
This settled and accumulated, and the work of hundreds af years produced a 
beautiful surface, its inequalities overcome, the water having receded and " terra 
£rma" remaining. A deep bed of clay, sufficiently compact to hold the germs 
of organic matter, and sufficiently porous to absorb moisture, was especially 
adapted to encourage the growth of vegetation. These seeds had been brous^ht 
by the winds and waves and natural agencies, and now began to produce plants 
and shrubs, which withered to enrich the soil, after scattering broadcast seeds 
that would again perpetuate verdure. Worms, land crabs and burrowing ani- 
mals assisted in the creation of soil, while the buffalo, deer and bear followed, 
as soon as forestry appeared. Decomposed foliage and fallen timber aided in 
the great work of preparing the present State of Ohio for the habitation of man. 
Prairie, marsh, forest, rivers and lakes were formed, which, in turn, were modi- 
:fied and prepared for a grand destiny by other influences. 

In glancing over the compiled histories of Ohio, those containing details of 
her early struggles, afflictions and triumphs, we are especially impressed with 
its near and sympathetic relation with the great Northwest, and the republic of 
the United States of America. From the early years when white men built 
their rude cabins in the then tangled wilderness, to the opulent and magnificent 
present of this united nation, Ohio has been stanch, loyal and earnest, both 
in action and principle. 

We shall endeavor to trace the history of the State concisely and accurately, 
according to the data given by the most reliable historians. We are obliged to 
glean the prominent events only, our space being limited, compared with the 
multitudinous interests connected with this important part of the United States. 



76 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

FRENCH HISTORY. 

All through early French history, is the fact especially prominent, that in 
their explorations and expeditions, they united piety and business. They were 
zealous in sending out their missionaries, but they were always attended by 
traders and those who were as skilled in the world's profit and loss, as their 
companions were in propagating Christianity. 

Prior to the landing of the Pilgrim Fathers upon Plymouth Rock, the 
Upper Lakes were visited by the French, and records prove that during the first 
half of the seventeenth century, a vagabondish set, working in the interests of 
the fur company of New France, understood the geographical position of the 
lakes and their tributary streams. M. Perrot, an intelligent explorer, made 
overtures of peace to the Indian tribes around these bodies of water, and 
efiected a treaty, which, it is claimed, established the right for the French, in 
the name of their king, to hold the place near St. Mary's Falls. They further 
assert that the Mississippi was discovered by the French from Lake Superior, 
but this is not authenticated, and Father jNIarquette and ]M. Joliet are accepted 
as the first who found this large stream, in 1763. The good missionary won 
his way with his patient and sympathetic nature. 

Ohio was, like the other portions of the West, originally in the possession 
of aborigines or Indians. Of their origin, many suppositions are advanced, 
but no certainties sustained. From practical evidences, the Mound-Builders 
were active in Ohio, and here as elsewhere, their work marked retrogression 
rather than advancement. The territory of Ohio was claimed by the French, 
and included in that wide tract between the Alleghanies and the Rockies, held 
by them under the name of Louisiana. Before the year 1750, a French trad- 
ing-post was established at the mouth of the Wabash, and communication was 
established between that point and the Maumee, and Canada. Between the 
years 1678 and 1682, the intrepid La Salle and Father Hennepin, assisted by 
Fondi, an Italian, with a small band of followers, inaugurated a series of 
explorations about the great lakes and the Mississippi, building forts on their 
way and planting the French priority. In 1680, La Salle erected a stockade at 
the foot of the rapids of the Maumee, which was a general rendezvous for mission- 
aries, traders and explorers, besides constituting a primitive "stock exchange." 

The English colonies were at this time east of the Alleghanies, while the 
French were establishing themselves west of this range, gaining an entrance 
north and south, the two portions separated by hostile and barbarous foes. 
La Salle's spirit of adventure led him into new fields, but Father Hennepin 
was detailed to investigate that part of the world now known as the State of 
Ohio. The records assert that he published a volume containing an account of 
his observations "in the country between New Mexico and the frozen ocean," 
in 1684, together with maps of Lakes Erie, Huron and Michigan, and a plat 
of the larger streams in Ohio. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 77 

Apparently, the French more speedily comprehended the value of their 
advantages in the New World than^the English, and vigorously inaugurated and 
sustained commercial and religious projects. They were essentially benefited 
by the mediation of the Catholic priests between settlers and Indians, this 
really earnest class everywhere ingratiating themselves with the savages. The 
Order of Jesuits were very vigorous, and representatives were stationed at every 
trading-post, village and settlement. The English colonists engaged mostly in 
agriculture, while the French toot a lively interest in the fur trade with the 
natives, probably from their former settlement in Quebec and thereabouts, where 
the climate is advantageous for this business. This added to the influence of 
the priests, and the natural assimilation of French and the Indians, through 
the tact and amiability of the former, the French possessions gained more 
rapidly than the English or Spanish. They courted their daughters and 
married them. They engaged in feasts and trades, and took advantage of 
those unimpeded times to extend their dominion with surprising celerity. A 
chain of trading, missionary and military posts extended from New Orleans to 
Quebec, by way of the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers, thence via Mackinaw and 
Detroit to Lakes Erie and Ontario. This route was shortened thereafter by 
following the Ohio River to the "Wabash, following the latter upward, and 
down the Maumee to Lake Erie. 

About the same time, and to check the advancement of the French, the 
Ohio Company was formed by the English. This was an outgrowth of the 
contest between these two nations for the ascendency, whether empire, settle- 
ment or individual. After thirty years' peace between these two nations, 
"King George's War" opened the campaign in 1744, but terminated in 1748, 
the treaty at Aix-la-Chapelle unfortunately omitting a settlement of any division 
of claims in America. The English, French and Spanish were the first to 
enter America, and the right of possession by each monarch or empire was 
held by right of a first discovery. The only right that England could advance 
regarding Ohio was that the portion of the Six Nations found in the Ohio 
Valley had placed some of their lands under British jurisdiction, and that other 
portions had been purchased at Lancaster, Penn., by means of a treaty with 
the same nations. All this was strenuously denied and ignored by the French. 
Thus several conflicting influences swept carnage over fair Ohio. The Indians were 
allied to one side and the other, and were against each other. The Indians and 
French would advance against the English, and they, in retaliation, would 
make a raid into the Indian territory and overcome a French settlement. 
Whenever they could as well, Indians would take the cause in their own keep- 
ing and fight each other. The wide, verdant fields of Ohio were drenched 
ghastly red under a glowing sun, and the great forests echoed moans from the 
dying and distressed. The English colonists had partially overcome their 
deprivation, caused by a struggle for subsistence, and means to guard against 
the savages — this distress augmented by campaigns against Canada — ^by their 



78 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

increased numbers and wealth, but were now alarmed by the French rule in 
America, which gained so rapidly, unmolested as it was by Indian raids and 
other devastating circumstances. A constant conflict was going on between 
Lake Erie and the Upper Ohio. Atrocities and massacres were committed 
indiscriminately, which opened the way for a desperate class of marauders and 
villains from the colonies and European States. These people enlisted with 
the Indians on either side for the purpose of leadership and plunder. Every 
fortification, trading-post and settlement was garrisoned or deserted, and the 
ground between the Alleghanies and the Maumee became a conflict field, rife 
with thrilling deeds, sacrifice and adventures, the half never having been 
chronicled, and many heroes falling uncrowned by even a lasting memory, since 
during these times the people kept few annals, and cared less for historical 
memories than anything on earth. They were living, and dying, and struggling, 
and that was more than they could carry through safely. The French formed 
a road from the Ohio River to Detroit, via the foot of the Lower Rapids of the 
]\Iaumee, and the foot of the Lower Rapids of the Sandusky. 

The Ohio Company obtained a charter under English views, from the 
British Government, with a grant of 6,000 acres of land on the Ohio. The 
English now reverted to the times of the Cabots, and protested that by right 
they held the entire country between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, bounded 
by those parallels of latitude defining their Atlantic coast settlements. France 
claimed the region drained by the Mississippi and tributaries, the great lakes 
and their tributaries, the area being west of the Alleghanies. Ohio was thus 
included in the disputed tract. 

The Ohio Company was formed in 1748, by a number of Virginians and 
Londoners, two brothers of George Washington taking conspicuous parts in the 
movement ; Thomas Lee was especially active. When the surveys were begun, 
the Governor of Canada entered vigorous protests, and indicated his displeasure 
by a prompt line of posts from Erie to Pittsburgh, named respectively, Presque 
Isle, Le Boeuf, Vedango, Kittaning and Du Quesne. The latter was begun 
by the English, captured by the French, and by them completed. 

The first English settlement of which we can find traces was a block-house 
at Piqua, about the year 1752. It was attacked, and a bitter struggle ensued, 
resulting in the death of fourteen of the assailants. Those within the garrison 
suffered severely, many being burned, and the remainder captured and dis- 
patched to Canada. 

In 1753, the French and Indian war actively began. It did not extend 
beyond the American continent until 1756, when the home governments took 
an interest in its progress beyond encouraging their respective colonists to pur- 
sue the war-path to a direful finale for their adversaries. For four years, the 
French captured and conquered, spreading terror wherever they went, and 
they followed every Englishman that set his foot on Ohio soil to the death. 
We may state that these people had not retained their civilized habits, and 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 79 

constant association with savages had embued them with barbarous methods of 
warfare which were sickening and revolting to the English, and to which they 
could not resort. It is highly probable that French success was vastly brought 
about by these means, together with the assistance of their Indian allies. In 
1758, when the English hope was almost exterminated, the elder Pitt being 
placed at the head of the administration, a new and energetic system was 
inaugurated, wise measures instituted, and military science triumphed over 
savage cunning and French intrigue. The first brilliant English achievement 
was the conquest of Canada. When the home governments interfered, the 
war assumed the character of a French and English conflict, regardless of 
Indian right, yet the tribes continued to participate in the carnage. 

A certain Christian, Frederick Post, a Moravian missionary, located upon 
the Muskingum, near Beavertown. Heckewelder consented to become his 
associate. The Indians receiving them kindly, under conditions that Post 
should serve as tutor, this missionary began clearing a field for the purpose of 
planting corn for sustenance. This did not accord with Indian logic. They 
had stipulated that he teach and he was planting corn, which to them was a 
signal of the coming of other whites, the building of a fort and encroachments 
upon the Indians. They referred to the French priests, who were in good 
physical condition, did not till land, but were in charge of the Great Spirit 
who provided for them, a conclusive proof to them that when divine work was 
acceptable to the Great Spirit, priests were somehow sustained by other than 
the plans which disturbed their great hunting-grounds. However, they 
allowed him a small space, and he remained with them, preaching and teaching 
during the summer of 1762, when, accompanied by one of the principal chiefs, 
he returned to Lancaster, Penn., where a treaty was concluded. On his return 
to his post, he was met by Heckewelder, who imparted the tidings that friendly 
Indians had warned him that the war was about to sweep over their section, 
and destruction awaited them if they remained. The mission was accordingly 
abandoned. This failure was not so bitter as the English effort to sustain their 
trading-post in 1749, on the Great Miami, afterward called Laramie's store. 
It pursued a feeble existence until 1752, when a French raid upon the Twig- 
twees and English colonists proved fatal. 

A European treaty now excluded the French from any rights to make 
treaties with the Indians, and the English, in their flush of victory after Pitt's 
succession, assumed the authority over Indians and lands. The savages did 
not accept the situation with anything resembling the gentle spirit of resigna- 
tion, and the Ottawa chief, Pontiac, led the several tribes into a general war 
against the intruders. It was no longer Freuch and English, but Indian and 
English, the former being instigated and assisted many times by the French, 
now despei-ate and unscrupulous in a mad spirit for revenge. 

The intention of the Indians was to drive the whites east of the mountains, 
destroying their numerous strongholds in Pennsylvania and Virginia, if they 



80 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

failed in their hope of utteriy exterminating them. Pontiac had effected a 
consolidation of the tribes ranging from Mackinaw to North Carolina, thus 
being enabled to swoop down upon all the settlements simultaneously. A 
deadly beginning was made in the Ohio Valley, and only two or three English 
traders escaped out of the one hundred and twenty located in that vicinity. 
The forts at Presque Isle, St. Joseph and Mackinaw, were captured amid scenes 
of slaughter too terrible to perpetuate in description. The years 1763 and 
1764 were literally drenched in human carnage and anguish. Ohio was a 
great field of crime, murder, pain and horror. The expeditions of Bradstreet 
and Bouquet crushed the war in 1764, and Pontiac with his Ottawas removed 
to the Maumee and settled. English settlement now progressed with great 
rapidity, but this was destined to be disturbed in 1774, by the action of Lord 
Dunmore, who led an expedition against the tribes of the Ohio country, termi- 
nated by his treaty on the Scioto plains. At this period, the colonists were not 
in strict harmony with England, and the spirit of revolution was spreading 
every day. 

When Lord Dunmore made his treaty, the affirmation was made and gained 
ground that he, being a thorough loyalist, had compromised under such terms 
as held the Indians British allies against the settlers. Directly following this 
treaty, was the deliberate murder of a number of Indians, near Wheeling, 
including the family of the great chief, Logan — which inaugurated retaliating 
atrocities. 

In the year 1773, July 4, the first white child was born within the 
present limits of Ohio, and was christened John L. Roth, son of a Mora- 
vian missionary. All the settlers of these Moravian towns on the Muskingum 
were made prisoners in September of the same year. Heckwelder was tran:- 
ported to Detroit, but English tyranny failed to find any evidence against him 
or his colaborers, and they were reluctantly released, and returned to their fam- 
ilies in Sandusky. Poverty added to their sufferings, and in the forlorn 
hope of finding a remnant of their property at the old settlements, which might 
assist in mitigating their necessities, they wearily went thitherward. They 
began gathering their grain, but the Wyandots attacked them, and many lives 
were lost. Frontiersmen had also grown jealous of them, and a body of about 
ninety marched out together, for the fiendish purpose of pillaging, slaughtering 
and laying waste all Moravian towns and posts. With the wily insidiousness of 
savages, they went about their diabolical plan. The Moravians were cordial and 
bade this band welcome, when they reached their towns in the guise of friend- 
ship. Williamson, the leader, and the gleaners, were called from the fields, 
when, to the dismay of these trusting and frank people, they were all bound, 
and only fifteen out of the marauding band of ninety were in favor of even 
sparing the lives of these hapless men, women and children. Forty men, 
twenty-two women and thirty-four children were then cruelly and heartlessly 
murdered, their sufferings laughed to scorn, and the last sound that fell on their 




•CpL PliJ, C; 



^UX\AAJt-r>- C^ 



O^, 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 83 

ears was exultant derision. Succeeding this tragic event was the expedition 
against the Indian towns upon the Sandusky. The hostile Indians had been 
making frequent incursions upon the settlements of Western Pennsylvania and 
Virginia, destroying both life and property. There seemed to be no bounds 
to their bloody work, and it became necessary, for the peace and safety of the 
settlers, to take some measures to prevent their outrages. Accordingly, in 
May, 1782, Gen. William Irvine, who was then commander of the Western 
Military Department, with headquarters at Fort Pitt, called a council of the 
officers of his department to meet at Fort Pitt. At this meeting it was de- 
cided to form and equip a body of men, and make an expedition into the 
Indian country. Upper Sandusky, then the rendezvous of the hostile Wyan- 
dots, Delawares, Shawanese and Mingoes, was to be the point of attack. 

Col. William Crawford led the expedition, which counted 480 men. Warn- 
ing had in some manner reached the towns, and the troops found them de- 
serted. But the Indians were incensed, and their wrath had not driven them 
to hiding-places, but to a preparation to meet their foes. They fought desper- 
ately, and Crawford's troops were defeated and scattered, many being capt- 
ured, and among them Col. Crawford himself. It is hardly probable that 
Crawford could justly expect much mercy at the hands of his captors. Ac- 
counts state that Crawford implored the aid of Girty, and at last secured a 
promise to use his power to obtain the Colonel's pardon. However, this was of 
no avail, and it is doubtful whether Girty was disposed to intercede. The 
prisoners were tortured and put to death, and Crawford's agonies were pro- 
tracted as long as possible. Dr. Knight managed to disable the Indian who 
had him in charge, and made his escape to the settlements, where he related 
the result of the expedition and the tortures of the captured. 

On October 27, 1784, a treaty was concluded at Fort Stanwix, with the 
sachems and warriors of the Mohawks, Onondagas, Senecas, Cayugas, Onei- 
das and Tuscaroras, and the Six Nations then ceded to the Colonial Govern- 
ment all claims to the country west of a line defined by the western boundary 
to the Ohio — thus rendering the Indian claim to a large portion of Ohio lands 
practically extinct. 

Although the French and Indian war was a series of heart-rending events, 
it was a serious and remarkable school of discipline for the untrained troops 
which soon engaged in the Revolutionary struggle. On the fields of Ohio, many 
valuable officers, who earned distinction in the war of independence, learned 
their first lessons in intrepid valor. 

During the Revolution, the colonial troops were engaged east of the mount- 
ains, and western settlements and frontier people were left alone to defend 
themselves and their property against encroachments and attacks. 

The Indian tribes again became belligerent, and united with the English 
against the " Americans." The latter held a line of posts along the Upper 
Ohio, while the British were stationed in the old French strongholds on the 
lakes and the Mississippi. The unscrupulous whites and Indians ranged at ran- 
dom between this boundary and the Cuyahoga, thence southerly to the Ohio, 



84 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

thus including the Scioto and Miami Valleys. Southeastern Ohio constituted 
"the neutral ground." 

Gen. Clarke's expedition, although chiefly confined to Indiana and Illinois, 
greatly influenced the settlement of Ohio. His exploits and the resolution of 
his troops were chiefly instrumental in holding the country west of the Alle- 
ghanies, and insuring its possession by the United States during the Revolution. 
The British had been emphatic, in the Paris treaty, at the time of the settlement 
of the French and English difficulties, in demanding the Ohio River as the 
northern boundary of the United States. The American Commissioners relied 
upon Gen. Clarke's valor and energy in holding the country west of the Alle- 
ghanies, which he had conquered, and the British Commissioners were compelled 
to give their consent, under civil and military measures. In 1783, by the 
treaty of Paris, at the close of the Revolutionary war, the English relinquished 
all rights to the fertile territory between the Alleghanies and the Mississippi, 
and the United States held undisputed possession. 

January 10, 1786, Gens. Rufus Putnam and Benjamin Tupper circulated a 
pamphlet, proposing the formation of a company for the purpose of settling the 
Ohio lands, and soliciting the attention and consideration of all those desiring a 
future home and prosperity. A meeting was also called, to assemble during the 
following February, and select delegates to represent each county in Massachu- 
setts. These dignitaries should convene during the month of March, at the 
" Bunch of Grapes " tavern, in Boston, for the purpose of definitely forming the 
association, and adopting such measures as would benefit all directly interested. 
The Meeting and " convention " followed, and the subscription books were opened. 
One million dollars, chiefly represented by Continental certificates, was the 
price of the land. The shares were valued at $1,000 each, and there was a 
division of a thousand shares. The first payment was to be |10 per share, this 
money to be set aside for such expenses as might accrue. A year's interest was 
to be devoted to the establishment of the settlement, and those families who 
were unable to incur the expense of moving were to be assisted. Those who 
purchased shares to the number of twenty were entitled to a representation by 
an agent, who was permitted to vote for Directors. This plan matured and was 
acted upon during the following year. It may be that the action of Connecti- 
cut, in ceding her territorial claims to the General Government, with few excep- 
tions, greatly encouraged this new undertaking. That tract was, until recently, 
designated the " Western Reserve " — an extent 170 miles from the western 
boundary of Pennsylvania, and parallel thereto, being reserved. 

On October 27, 1787, a contract was made between the Board of the Treas- 
ury, for the United States, and Manasseh Cutler and Winthrop Sargent, agents 
for the Directors of the New England Ohio Company, for the purchase of a tract 
of land, bounded by the Ohio, and from the mouth of the Scioto to the inter- 
section of the western boundary of the seventh townships, then surveying ; 
thence by said boundary to the northern boundary of the tenth township from 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 85 

the Ohio ; thence, by a due west line, to the Scioto ; thence, by the Scioto, to 
the beginning. 

However fertile and attractive Ohio was known to have been, settlement did 
not gain rapidly after the close of the war with England, although the United 
States has gained her freedom. It was more than six years after Cornwallis 
laid down his sword, before a white settlement was formed on the Ohio side of the 
river. The French and Indian war had incited the English to be jealous of her 
colonial conquests, and mistrusting their loyalty, they had, so soon as the French 
claims were annulled, taken measures to crush all colonial claims also, and a 
royal proclamation rescinded all colonial land grants and charters, holding all 
the country west of the sources of the Atlantic rivers under the protection and 
sovereignty of the king of Great Britain, for the use of the Indians. All white 
persons were forbidden to remain or settle within the prescribed limits. Parlia- 
ment then attached this tract to Quebec, and the English Government felt assured 
that the thirteen colonies were restricted and held secure east of the Alleffhanies. 

The result of the war between the colonies and England did not constitute 
an Indian treaty. Although England signed over her title and right, the sava- 
ges held the land and ignored all white agreements, one way or the other. 
Whenever an attempt at settlement was undertaken, Indian depredations proved 
disastrous. The tribes were encouraged by the English fur traders, and the 
English commandant at Detroit incited them to destroy all Americans who 
attempted to usurp the rights of red men. 

Added to this serious difficulty was the unsettled debate regarding State 
claims, which rendered a title precarious. A treaty, signed at Fort Mcintosh, 
previous to the war, and authenticated, shows that during the conflict the Dela- 
wares and Wyandots occupied the Indian and British frontier, on the southern 
shore of Lake Erie, from the Cuyahoga to the Maumee, and from the lake to 
the sources of its tributaries. Later, these two tribes ceded to the United 
States "the neutral ground," by warranty deed, and by quit-claim, the terri- 
tory south and west of the described tract, set apart for their use. 

By special measures, the grant of Congress in the matter of the Ohio Com- 
pany extended to nearly 5,000,000 acres, valued at $3,500,000. The original 
Ohio Company obtained 1,500,000 acres, the remaining being reserved by indi- 
viduals, for private speculation. 

The same year. Congress appointed Arthur St. Clair, Governor, and Win- 
throp Sargent, Secretary, of the Territory. 

Fort Harmar had previously been built, at the mouth of the Muskingum, 
and in 1788, a New England colony attempted the "Muskingum settlement," 
on the opposite side, which was afterward named Marietta. In July, 1788, the 
Territorial officers were received in this village, and there established the first 
form of civil government, as set forth in the Ordinance of 1787. Three United 
States Judges were appointed, and Courts of Common Pleas, Probate and 
Justice were established. 



86 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

If the stormy times were supposed to be of the past, that composure was 
rudely broken by the utter disregard of the Shawnee and other Indian tribes, 
who soon induced the Delawares and Wyandots to repudiate their consent in the 
matter of settlement. The miseries of frontier horrors were repeated. The 
British commandant at Detroit instigated many of these hostilities, yet the 
American Government took honorable action in assuring the English represent- 
ative that American military preparations in the West was not an expedition 
against Detroit, or other British possessions, although the possession of Detroit 
by that nation was in direct opposition to the treaty of 1783. Gov. St. Clair, 
to avert the direful consequences of a border war, dispatched a Frenchman, 
Gameline, to the principal Indian towns of the Wabash and Maumee countries, 
to request them to meet the United States agents, and make a compromise for 
the benefit of both parties, at the same time reiterating the desire of the General 
Government to adhere to the Fort Harmar treaty. The Miamis, Shawnees, 
Ottawas, Kickapoos and Delawares received this representative kindly, but 
declined the wampum sent by the Governor, and deferred giving an answer 
until they had considered the subject with the " father at Detroit." 

Blue Jacket, chief of the Shawnees, informed the Frenchman that the Indi- 
ans doubted the sincerity of the Americans. The new settlement on the Ohio 
was a proof that the whites intended to crowd further and further, until the 
Indians were again and again robbed of their just right. He then emphatically 
asserted that unless the north side of the river was kept free from these inroads 
there could be no terms of peace with the Shawnees, and many other tribes. 

Blue Jacket was unusually intelligent and sagacious, and expressed himself 
eloquently. He was persistent in his determination to engage in the war of 
extermination, should the white settlements continue north of the Ohio. 

These overtures were continued, but they failed in producing any arrange- 
ment that permitted the whites to locate north of the Ohio. 

Congress called upon Kentucky and Pennsylvania to lend the aid of their 
militia. Gen. Harmar was instructed to destroy the Miami villages at the 
head of the Maumee. Late in the fall of 1790, he executed this order. 

The Indians had stored a large quantity of provisions, in expectation of a 
campaign, and this dependence was devastated. Without authority, and with 
undue carelessness, he divided his army and attempted to achieve other victo- 
ries. He more than lost what he had gained. . Two raids upon the Wabash In- 
dians, thereafter, proved successful, but the campaign under Gov. St. Clair was 
not calculated to establish peace or obtain power, and was deemed but little less 
than a failure. 

The year 1792 was a series of skirmishes, so far as a settlement was con- 
cerned, but 1793 succeeded well enough to convene a meeting of United States 
Commissioners and representatives of the hostile tribes, at the rapids of the 
Maumee. It is highly probable that a satisfactory treaty might have been 
arranged, had it not been for the intervention and malicious influence of the 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 87 

British Superintendent of Indian Affairs, Col. McKee, his assistant Capt. 
Elliott, and the notorious Capt. Simon Girty, who instigated the savages to 
deeds more horrible than their own barbarisms. 

It was evident that a severe struggle must ensue, and Capt. Wayne, in 
1792, appointed to the command of the Western army, was called upon to con- 
duct the campaign. He exhibited his wisdom in the beginning, by preparing 
his men in military discipline and fully equipping them before marching to meet 
a savage foe in a wilderness. Various causes detained the army, and it was not 
until the fall of 1793, that the force marched from Fort Washington (Cincin- 
nati) to begin the battle. 

It was already late in the season, and, before any progress had been made, 
the army went into winter quarters at Greenville, on a branch of the Big 
Miami. 

In the mean time, the Ohio Company had not matured its practical " settle- 
merit plan," although a generous grant had been obtained. In 1792, they 
received a clear title to 750,000 acres of land, for which the full price had pre- 
viously been paid, in Continental currency. Congress set aside 214,285 acres 
as army bounties, and 100,000 acres to actual settlers. The two latter appro- 
priations joined that of the Ohio Company. 

There had been numerous conventions, discussions and other fruitless 
attempts to somehow form a plan for the government of the Northwest Terri- 
tory, but it was not until July 13, 1787, that an ordinance was passed, and that 
was the result of Dr. Cutler's efforts. Every State sustained its measures. 

This ordinance was the foundation of the constitution of the future State of 
Ohio, and indeed, permeates the entire Northwestern creed. 

ORDINANCE OF 1787.— No. 32. 
An Ordinance for the Government of the Territory of the United States, Northwest of 
THE Ohio River. 

Be it ordained by the United States in Congress assembled, That the said Territory, for the pur- 
pose of government, be one district; subject, however, to be divided into two districts, as future cir- 
cumstances may, in the opinion of Congress, make it expedient. 

Be it ordained by the authority aforesaid, That the estates of both resident and non-resident 
proprietors in the said Territory, dying intestate, shall descend to and be distributed among their 
children and the descendants of a deceased child, in equal parts; the descendants of a deceased 
child or grandchild to take the share of their deceased parent in equal parts among them. And 
when there shall be no children or descendants, then in equal parts to the next of kin in equal 
degree ; and among collaterals, the children of a deceased brother or sister of the intestate shall 
have, in equal parts among them, their deceased parent's share; and there shall in no case be a 
distribution between kindred of the whole and half blood, saving in all cases to the widow of 
intestate, her third part of the real estate, for life, and one-third part of the personal estate ; and 
this law relative to descents and dower, shall remain in fall force until altered by the Legis- 
lature of the district. And until the Governor and Judges shall adopt laws as hereinafter 
mentioned, estates in said Territory may be devised or bequeathed by wills in writing, signed 
and sealed by him or her in whom the estate may be (being of full age), and attested by three 
witnesses ; and real estate may be conveyed by lease and release, or bargain and sale, signed and 
sealed, and delivered by the person (being in full age) in whom the estate may be, and attested 



88 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

by two witnesses, provided such wills be duly proved, and such conveyances be acknowledged, or 
the execution thereof duly proved and be recorded within one year after proper magistrates, 
courts and registers shall be appointed for that purpose. And personal property may be trans- 
ferred by delivery, saving, however, to the French and Canadian inhabitants and other settlers of 
the Kaskaskias, St. Vincent's and the neighboring villages, who have heretofore professed them- 
selves citizens of Virginia, their laws and customs now in force among them, relative to the 
descent and conveyance of property. 

Be it ordained by the authority aforesaid, That there shall be appointed from time to time, by 
Congress, a Governor whose commission shall continue in force for a term of three years, unless 
sooner revoked by Congress. He shall reside in the district and have a freehold estate therein, 
of a thousand acres of land while in the exercise of his office. 

There shall be appointed from time to time by Congress, a Secretary whose commission shall 
continue in force for two years, unless sooner revoked. He shall reside in the district, and shall 
have a freehold estate therein in 500 acres of land, while in the exercise of his office. It shall be 
his duty to keep and preserve the acts and laws passed by the Legislature, and the public records 
of the district, and the proceedings of the Governor in his executive department, and transmit 
authentic copies of such acts and proceedings every six months, t« the Secretary of Congress. 
There shall also be appointed a court to consist of three Judges, any two of whom to form a 
court, who shall have a common law jurisdiction and shall reside in the district and have each 
therein a freehold estate in 500 acres of land, while in the exercise of their office, and their 
commissions shall continue in force during good behavior. 

The Governor and Judges, or a majority of them, shall adopt and publish in the district 
such laws of the original States, criminal and civil, as may be necessary and best suited to the 
circumstances of the district, and report them to Congress from time to time, which laws shall be 
in force in the district until the organization of the General Assembly therein, unless disapproved 
by Congress. But afterward, the Legislature shall have authority to alter them, as they shall 
think fit. 

The Governor, for the time being, shall be commander-in-chief of the militia, appoint and 
commission all officers in the same, below the rank of general officers. All general officers shall 
be appointed and commissioned by Congress. 

Previous to the organization of the General Assembly, the Governor shall appoint such mag- 
istrates and other civil officers in each county or township, as he shall find necessary for the 
preservation of the peace and good order in the same. After the General Assembly shall be 
organized, the powers and duties of magistrates and other civil officers shall be regulated and 
defined by the said Assembly, but all magistrates and other civil officers not herein otherwise 
directed, shall, during the continuance of this temporary government, be appointed by the 
Governor. 

For the prevention of crimes and injuries, the laws to be adopted or made shall have force 
in all parts of the district, and for the execution of process, criminal or civil, the Governor shall 
make proper divisions thereof, and he shall proceed from time to time as circumstances may 
require, to lay out the parts of the district in which the Indian titles shall have been extin- 
guished, into counties and townships, subject, however, to such alterations as may thereafter be 
made by the Legislature. So soon as there shall be 5,000 free male inhabitants of full age in the 
district, upon giving proof thereof to the Governor, they shall receive authority with time and 
place, to elect representatives from their counties or townships, to represent them in the General 
Assembly. Provided, That for every 500 free male inhabitants, there shall be one representative, 
and so on progressively with the number of free male inhabitants, shall the right of representa- 
tion increase, until the number of representatives shall amount to twenty-five. After which, the 
number shall be regulated by the Legislature. Provided, That no person be eligible or qualified 
to act as a representative unless he shall have been a citizen of one of the United States three 
years, and be a resident in the district, or unless he shall have resided in the district three 
years, and in either case, shall likewise hold in his own right in fee simple 200 acres of land 
within the same. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 89 

Provided, Also, that a freehold in 50 acres of land in the district, having been a citizen of 
one of the States, and being a resident in the district, or the like freehold and two years' resi- 
dence in the district, shall be necessary to qualify a man as an elector of a representative. 

The representatives thus elected, shall serve for the term of two years. And in case of the 
death of a representative or removal from office, the Governor shall issue a writ to the county or 
township for which he was a member, to elect another in his stead, to serve for the residue of the 
term. 

The General Assembly or Legislature shall consist of the Governor, Legislative Council, and 
a House of Representatives. The Legislative Council shall consist of five members, to continue 
in office five years, unless sooner removed by Congress ; any three of whom to be a quorum. 
And the members of the Council shall be nominated and appointed in the following manner, to wit : 

As soon as representatives shall be elected, the Governor shall appoint a time and place for 
them to meet together, and when met, they shall nominate ten persons, residents in the district, 
and each person in a freehold in 500 acres of land, and return their names to Congress, five of 
whom Congress shall appoint and commission as aforesaid. And whenever a vacancy shall hap- 
pen in the Council by death or removal from office, the House of Representatives shall nominate 
two persons, qualified as aforesaid, for each vacancy, and return their names to Congress, one of 
■whom Congress shall appoint and commission for the residue of the term. And every five years, 
four months at least before the expiration of the time of service of the members of the Council, 
the said House shall nominate ten persons qualified as aforesaid, and return their names to 
Congress, five of whom Congress shall appoint and commission to serve as members of the 
Council five years, unless sooner removed. And the Governor, Legislative Council and House 
of Representatives shall have authority to make laws in all cases, for the good government 
of the district, not repugnant to the principles and articles in this Ordinance, established and 
declared. 

And all bills having passed by a majority in the House, and by a majority in the Council, 
shall be referred to the Governor for his assent. But no bill or legislative act whatever, shall be 
of any force without his assent. The Governor shall have power to convene, prorogue and dis- 
solve the General Assembly, when in his opinion it shall be expedient. 

The Governor, Judges, Legislative Council, Secretary, and such other officers as Congress 
shall appoint in the district, shall take an oath or affirmation of fidelity and of office. The Gov- 
ernor before the President of Congress, and all other officers before the Governor. 

As soon as a Legislature shall be formed in the district, the Council and House assembled 
in one room, shall have authority by joint ballot to elect a delegate to Congress, who shall 
have a seat in Congress, with a right of debating, but not of voting, during this temporary gov- 
ernment. 

And for extending the fundamental principles of civil and religious liberty, which forms 
the basis whereon these republics, their laws and constitutions, are created ; to fix and establish 
those principles as the basis of all laws, constitutions and governments, which forever hereafter 
shall be formed in said Territory. To provide for the establishment of States, and permanent 
governments therein, and for their admission to a share in the Federal Council on an equal footing 
■with the original States, at as early periods as may be consistent with the general interest. 

It is hereby ordained and declared by the authority aforesaid, That the following articles shall 
be considered as articles of compact between the original States and the people, and States in 
said Territory, and forever remain unaltered unless by common consent, to wit: 

Article II. The inhabitants of said Territory shall always be entitled to the benefits of the 
"writ of habeas corpus, and of the trial by jury ; of a proportionate representation of the people 
in the Legislature, and of judicial procedure according to the course of common law. All per- 
sons shall be bailable, except for capital offenses, where the proof shall be evident or the pre- 
sumption great. All fines shall be moderate, and no cruel or unreasonable punishment shall be 
inflicted. No man shall be deprived of his liberty or property, but by the judgment of his peers 
or the law of the land. And should the public exigencies make it necessary for the common 
preservation, to take any person's property, or to demand his particular services, full compensation 



90 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

shall be made for the same. And in the just preservation of rights and property, it is under- 
stood and declared that no law aught ever to be made or have force in the said Territory, 
that shall in any manner whatever interfere with or effect private contracts or engagements bona 
fide and without fraud, previously formed. 

Art. III. Religion, morality and knowledge being necessary to good government and the 
happiness of mankind, schools and the means of education shall forever be encouraged. The 
utmost good faith shall always be observed toward the Indians ; their lands and property shall 
never be taken from them without their consent; and in their property, rights and liberty they 
shall never be invaded or disturbed, unless in just and lawful wars authorized by Congress. But 
laws founded in justice and humanity, shall from time to time be made for preventing wrongs 
being done to them, and for preserving peace and friendship with them. 

Art. IV. The said Territory and the States which may be formed therein, shall ever remain 
a part of the confederacy of the United States of America, subject to the articles of confedera- 
tion, and to such alterations therein as shall be constitutionally made, and to all the acts and 
ordinances of the United States in Congress assembled conformable thereto. The inhabitants and 
settlers in said Territory shall be subject to pay a part of the federal debts contracted or to be 
contracted, and a proportional part of the expenses of the Government, to be apportioned on 
them by Congress, according to the same common rule and measure by which apportionments 
thereof shall be made on the other States, and the taxes for paying their proportion shall be laid 
and levied by the authority and directions of the Legislature of the district or districts or new 
States, within the time agreed upon by the United States in Congress assembled. The Legisla- 
tures of those districts or new States, shall never interfere with the primary disposal of the soil 
by the United States in Congress assembled, nor with any regulations Congress may find neces- 
sary for securing the title in such soil to the bona-fide purchasers. No tax shall be imposed on 
lands the property of the United States, and in no case, shall non-residents be taxed higher than 
residents. The navigable waters leading into the Mississippi and St Lawrence, and the carry- 
ing places between the same, shall be common highways, and forever free as well to the inhabi- 
tants of the said Territory as to the citizens of the United States and those of any other States 
that may be admitted into the confederacy, without any tax, impost or duty therefor. 

Art. V, There shall be formed in said Territory not less than three, nor more than five, 
States, and the boundaries of the States, as soon as Virginia shall alter her act of cession and 
consent to the same, shall become fixed and established as follows, to wit : The western State in 
the said Territory shall be bounded by the Mississippi, the Ohio, the Wabash Rivers ; a direct 
line drawn from the Wabash and Post St. Vincent, due north to the Territorial line between the 
United States and Canada ; and by the said Territorial line to the Lake of the Woods and Missis- 
sippi. The middle State shall be bounded by the said direct line, the Wabash from Post St. Vin- 
cent to the Ohio, by the Ohio, by a direct line drawn due north from the mouth of the Great 
Miami to the said Territorial line. The eastern State shall be bounded by the last-mentioned 
direct line, the Ohio, Pennsylvania and said territorial line. Provided, however, and it is further 
understood and declared, that the boundaries of those three States shall be subject so far to be 
altered, that, if Congress shall hereafter find it expedient, they shall have authority to form one 
or two States in that part of the said Territory which lies north of an east and west line drawn 
through the southerly bend or extreme of Lake Michigan. And whenever any of the said States 
shall have 60,000 free inhabitants therein, such State shall be admitted by its delegates into the 
Congress of the United States on an equal footing with the original States in all respects what- 
ever, and shall be at liberty to form a permanent constitution and State government. Provided, 
The constitution and government so to be formed, shall be represented, and in conformity to the 
principles contained in these articles ; and so far as it can be consistent with the general interest 
of the confederacy, such admission shall be allowed at an earlier period, and when there may be 
a less number of free inhabitants than 60,000. 

Art. VI. There shall be neither slavery nor involuntary servitude in the said Territory, 
otherwise than in the punishment of crimes whereof the party shall have been duly convicted. 
Provided always. That any person escaping into the same from whom labor or service is lawfully 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 91. 

claimed in one of the original States, each fugitive may be lawfully claimed and conveyed to the 
person claiming his or her labor or services as aforesaid. 

Be it ordained by the authority aforesaid. That the resolutions of the 23d of April, 1784, 
relative to the subject of this ordinance, be and the same are hereby repealed and declared null 
and void. 

COMMENT BY S. P. CHASE 1833. 

It would be difficult to find a more comprehensive review of the founda- 
tions of our system of laws than is given in the " Preliminary Sketch of the 
History of Ohio," by this distinguished representative of the bench and the 
bar of America. The work is now out of print, and is not easily obtained; 
besides, its great author has passed away; so these extracts are made more 
with a view of preserving old historical literature, than of introducing new ; 
furthermore, the masses of the people have never had convenient access to the 
volumes, which, for the most part, have been in the hands of professional men 
only. The publication of the work first brought its compiler before the public, 
and marked the beginning of that career which, during its course, shaped the 
financial system of our country, and ended upon the Supreme Bench of the 
nation. 

"By the ordinance of 1785, Congress had executed in part the great national 
trust confided to it, by providing for the disposal of the public lands for the 
common good, and by prescribing the manner and terms of sale. By that of 
1787, provision was made for successive forms of Territorial government, 
adapted to successive steps of advancement in the settlement of the Western 
country. It comprehended an intelligible system of law on the descent and 
conveyance of real property, and the transfer of personal goods. It also con- 
tained five articles of compact between the original States, and the people and 
States of the Territory, establishing certain great fundamental principles of 
governmental duty and private right, as the basis of all future constitutions and 
legislation, unalterable and indestructible, except by that final and common 
ruin, which, as it has overtaken all former systems of human polity, may yet 
overwhelm our American union. Never, probably, in the history of the world, 
did a measure of legislation so accurately fulfill, and yet so mightily exceed 
the anticipations of the legislators. The ordinance has been well described, as 
having been a pillar of cloud by day and of fire by night, in the settlement and 
government of the Northwestern States. When the settlers went into the 
wilderness, they found the law already there. It was impressed upon the soil 
itself, while it yet bore up nothing but the forest. The purchaser of land 
became, by that act, a party to the compact, and bound by its perpetual cove- 
nants, so far as its conditions did not conflict with the terms of the cessions of 

the States. 

********* 

This remarkable instrument was the last gift of the Congress of the old 
confederation to the country, and it was a fit consummation of their glorious 



92 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

labors. At the time of its promulgation, the Federal Constitution was under 
discussion in the convention ; and in a few months, upon the organization of 
the new national government, that Congress was dissolved, never again to re-as- 
semble. Some, and indeed most of the principles established by the articles of 
compact are to be found in the plan of 1784, and in the various English and 
American bills of rights. Others, however, and these not the least important, 
are original. Of this number are the clauses in relation to contracts, to slavery 
and to Indians. On the whole, these articles contain what they profess to con- 
tain, the true theory of American liberty. The great principles promulgated 
by it are wholly and purely American. They are indeed the genuine princi- 
ples of freedom, unadulterated by that compromise with circumstances, the 
effects of which are visible in the constitution and history of the Union. 

The first form of civil government, provided by the ordinance, was now 
formally established within the Territory. Under this form, the people had no 
concern in the business of government. The Governor and Judges derived 
their appointments at first from Congress, and after the adoption of the Fed- 
eral Constitution, from the President- The commission of the former officer 
was for the term of three years, unless sooner revoked ; those of the latter 
were during good behavior. It was required that the Governor should reside 
within the Territory, and possess a freehold estate there, in one thousand acres 
of land. He had authority to appoint all officers of militia, below the rank of 
Generals, and all magistrates and civil officers, except the Judges and the Sec- 
retary of the Territory ; to establish convenient divisions of the whole district 
for the execution of progress, to lay out those parts to which the Indian 
titles might be extinguished into counties and townships. The Judges, or any 
two of them, constituted a court with common law jurisdiction. It was neces- 
sary that each Judge should possess a freehold estate in the territory of five 
hundred acres. The whole legislative power which, however, extended only to 
the adoption of such laws of the original States as might be suited to the cir- 
cumstances of the country, was vested in the Governor and Judges. The laws 
adopted were to continue in force, unless disapproved by Congress, until re- 
pealed by the Legislature, which was afterward to be organized. It was the 
duty of the Secretary to preserve all acts and laws, public records and executive 
proceedings, and to transmit authentic copies to the Secretary of Congress 
every six months. 

Such was the first government devised for the Northwestern Territory. It 
is obvious that its character, as beneficent or oppressive, depended entirely upon 
the temper and disposition of those who administrated it. All power, legisla- 
tive, judicial and executive, was concentrated in the Governor and Judges, and 
in its exercise they were responsible only to the distant Federal head. The 
expenses of the Government were defrayed in part by the United States, but 
were principally drawn from the pockets of the people in the shape of fees. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 93 

This temporary system, however unfriendly as it seems to liberty, was, 
perhaps, so established upon sufficient reasons. The Federal Constitution had 
not then been adopted, and there were strong apprehensions that the people of 
the Territory might not be disposed to organize States and apply for admission 
into the Union. It was, therefore, a matter of policy so to frame the Territorial 
system as to create some strong motives to draw them into the Union, as States, 
in due time. 

The first acts of Territorial legislation were passed at Marietta, then the 
only American settlement northwest of the Ohio. The Governor and Judges 
did not strictly confine themselves within the limits of their legislative author- 
ity, as prescribed by the ordinance. When they could not find laws of the 
original States suited to the condition of the country, they supplied the want 
by enactments of their own. The earliest laws, from 1788 to 1795, were all 
thus enacted. The laws of 1788 provided for the organization of the militia ; 
for the establishment of inferior courts ; for the punishment of crimes, and for 
the limitations of actions ; prescribed the duties of ministerial officers ; regu- 
lated marriages, and appointed oaths of office. That the Governor and Judges 
in the enactment of these laws, exceeded their authority, without the slightest 
disposition to abuse it, may be inferred from the fact that except two, which 
bad been previously repealed, they were all confirmed by the first Territorial 
Legislature. 

********* 

At this period there was no seat of government, properly called. The 
Governor resided at Cincinnati, but laws were passed whenever they seemed to 
be needed, and promulgated at any place where the Territorial legislators hap- 
pened to be assembled. Before the year of 1795, no laws were, strictly speak- 
ing, adopted. Most of them were framed by the Governor and Judges to 
answer particular public ends ; while in the enactment of others, including all 
the laws of 1792, the Secretary of the Territory discharged, under the author- 
ity of an act of Congress, the functions of the Governor. The earliest laws, 
as has been already stated, were published at Marietta. Of the remainder, a 
few were published at Vincennes, and the rest at Cincinnati. 

In the year 1789, the first Congress passed an act recognizing the binding 
force of the ordinance of 1787, and adapting its provisions to the Federal Con- 
stitution. This act provided that the communications directed in the ordinance 
to be made to Congress or its officers, by the Governor, should thenceforth be 
made to the President, and that the authority to appoint with the consent of 
the Senate, and commission officers, before that time appointed and commis- 
sioned by Congress, should likewise be vested in that officer. It also gave the 
Territorial Secretary the power already mentioned, of acting in certain cases, 
in the place of the Governor. In 1792, Congress passed another act giving to 
the Governor and Judges authority to repeal, at their discretion, the laws by 



94 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

them made ; and enabling a single Judge of the general court, in the absence 
of his brethren, to hold the terms. 

At this time the Judges appointed by the National Executive constituted the 
Supreme Court of the Territory. They were commissioned during good 
behavior; and their judicial jurisdiction extended over the whole region north- 
west of the Ohio. The court, thus constituted, was fixed at no certain place, 
and its process, civil and criminal, was returnable wheresoever it might be in 
the Territory. Inferior to this court were the County Courts of Common Pleas, 
and the General Quarter Sessions of the Peace. The former consisted of any 
number of Judges, not less than three nor more than seven, and had a general 
common-law jurisdiction, concurrent, in the respective counties, with that of 
the Supreme Court ; the latter consisted of a number of Justices for each 
county, to be determined by the Governor, who were required to hold three 
terms in every year, and had a limited criminal jurisdiction. Single Judges of 
the Common Pleas, and single Justices of the Quarter Sessions were also 
clothed with certain civil and criminal powers to be exercised out of court. 
Besides these courts, each county had a Judge of Probate, clothed with the 
ordinary jurisdiction of a Probate Court. 

Such was the original constitution of courts and distribution of judicial 
power in the Northwestern Territory. The expenses of the system were 
defrayed in part by the National Government, and in part by assessments upon 
the counties, but principally by fees, which were payable to every officer con- 
cerned in the administration of justice, from the Judges of the General Court 
downward. 

In 1795 the Governor and Judges undertook to revise the Territorial laws, 
and to establish a complete system of statutory jurisprudence, by adoptions 
from the laws of the original States, in strict conformity to the provisions of 
the ordinance. For this purpose they assembled at Cincinnati in June, and 
conti^nued in session until the latter part of August. The judiciary system 
underwent some changes. The General Court was fixed at Cincinnati and Mari- 
etta, and a Circuit Court was established with power to try in the several coun- 
ties, issues in fact depending before the superior tribunal, where alone causes 
could be finally decided. Orphans' Courts, too, were established, with jurisdic- 
tion analogous to but more extensive than that of a Judge of Probate. Laws were 
also adopted to regulate judgments and executions, for limitation of actions, 
for the distribution of intestate estates, and for many other general purposes. 
Finally, as if with a view to create some great reservoir, from which, whatever 
principles and powers had been omitted in the particular acts, might be drawn 
according to the exigency of circumstances, the Governor and Judges adopted 
a law, providing that the common law of England and all general statutes in 
aid of the common law, prior to the fourth year of James I, should be in full 
force within the Territory. The law thus adopted was an act of the Virginia 
Legislature, passed before the Declaration of Independence, when Virginia was 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 95 

yet a British colony, and at the time of its adoption had been repealed so far as 
it related to the English statutes. 

The other laws of 1795 were principally derived from the statute book of 
Pennsylvania. The system thus adopted was not without many imperfections 
and blemishes, but it may be doubted whether any colony, at so early a period 
after its first establishment, ever had one so good. 

And how gratifying is the retrospect, how cheering the prospect which even 
this sketch, brief and partial as it is, presents I On a surface covered less 
than half a century ago by the trees of the primeval forest, a State has grown 
up from Colonial infancy to freedom, independence and strength. But thirty 
years have elapsed since that State, with hardly sixty thousand inhabitants, was 
admitted into the American Union. Of the twenty-four States which form 
that Union, she is now the fourth in respect to population. In other respects 
her rank is even higher. Already her resources have been adequate, not only 
to the expense of government and instruction, but to the construction of long 
lines of canals. Her enterprise has realized the startling prediction of the 
poet, who, in 1787, when Ohio was yet a wilderness, foretold the future connec- 
tion of the Hudson with the Ohio. 

And these results are attributable mainly to her institutions. The spirit of 
the ordinance of 1787 pervades them all. Who can estimate the benefits 
which have flowed from the interdiction by that instrument of slavery and of 
legislative interference with private contracts? One consequence is, that the 
soil of Ohio bears up none but freemen ; another, that a stern and honorable 
regard to private rights and public morals characterizes her legislation. There 
is hardly a page in the statute book of which her sons need be ashamed. The 
great doctrine of equal rights is 'everywhere recognized in her constitution and 
her laws. Almost every father of a family in this State has a freehold interest 
in the soil, but this interest is not necessary to entitle him to a voice in the 
concerns of government. Every man'may vote ; every man is eligible to any 
office. And this unlimited extension of the elective franchise, so far from pro- 
ducing any evil, has ever constituted a safe and sufficient check upon injurious 
legislation. Other causes of her prosperity may be found in her fertile soil, in 
her felicitous position, and especially in her connection with the union of the 
States. All these springs of growth and advancement are permanent, and 
upon a most gratifying prospect of the future. They promise an advance in 
population, wealth, intelligence and moral worth as permanent as the existence 
of the State itself. They promise to the future citizens of Ohio the blessings 
of good government, wise legislation and universal instruction. More than all, 
they are pledges that in all future, as in all past circumstances, Ohio will cleave 
fast to the national constitution and the .national Union, and that her growing 
energies will on no occasion, be more willingly or powerfully put forth, than in 
the support and maintenance of both in unimpaired vigor and strength." 



96 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 



INFLUENCE OF THE ORDINANCE OF 1787. 

The passage of this ordinance, since known as the " Ordinance of 1787/' 
was immediately followed by an application to the Government, by John Cleves 
Symmes, of New Jersey, in behalf of the country, between the Miamis, and a 
contract was concluded the following year. The Ohio Company were exceed- 
ingly energetic in inaugurating settlements. Gen. Putman, with a party of 
forty-seven men, set out on an exploring expedition, accompanied by six boat 
builders. On the 1st of January, 1788, twenty-six surveyors followed, from 
Hartford, Conn. They arrived in Ohio on the 7th of April, 1788, and their 
active energy founded the permanent beginning of this great Western State* 
When we review the dangerous experiments that have been made, in this land 
west of the Alleghanies, the horrors which had overwhelmed every attempt, we 
can faintly realize the stalwart courage that sent these men on their way, and 
sustained them in their pioneer hardships. With characteristic vigor, they 
began their little town. Enthusiastic and happy, they did not rest from their 
toilsome march over the old Indian roads, but kept busily at work to estab- 
lish an oasis in this wide expanse of wilderness, before they should take nec- 
essary ease to recuperate their strength. 

The wise men met on the 2d of May, and the little town was named 
Marietta. Situated as it was, in the midst of danger, they had used precaution 
to build and equip a fortified square, which was designated Campus Martins ; 
Square No. 19 was Capitolium, and Square No. 61 was Cecelia, and the main 
street was Sacra Via. 

Marietta was especially fortunate in her actual "first families." Ten of the 
forty-eight men had received a thorough college education ; the remaining were 
individuals of sterling merit, honorable, and several had already attained reputations 
for superior excellence of abilities. Patriotic and brave, the settlement certainly 
possessed a foundation that promised well for the future. The following 4th of 
July was an auspicious event, and the Hon. James M. Varnum was the eloquent 
orator of the occason. 

The opening of the court, on the 2d of September, was a solemn ceremonial, 
the High Sheriff leading with drawn sword, followed by citizens, with an escort 
of officers from Fort Harmar, the members of the bar, the Governor and Clergy- 
men, the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas — Gen. Rufus Putman and 
Benjamin Tupper — all these constituted an imposing spectacle, as they pro- 
gressed over a path which had been cut through the forest to Campus Martins 
Hall, the edifice of law and order. 

The Judges took their seats, a prayer was offered by the Rev. Dr. Cutler, 
and immediately the Sheriff, Col. Ebenezer Sprout, proclaimed the response, 
and the court of impartial justice was convened. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 97 

This ceremonial was, perhaps, made all the more impressive by the presence 
of several powerful Indian chiefs, who had journeyed to Marietta for the pur- 
pose of making a treaty. 

The settlement now increased rapidly, new cabins were erected constantly. 
On the 17th of December, a society event occurred, in the form of a grand ball, 
fifteen ladies being present. 

John Cleves Symmes had contracted for 2,000,000 acres of land, and suc- 
ceeded in obtaining his grant, but circumstances prevented him from meeting 
his part of the obligations, and the specification was reduced to 1,000,000. 
After vain attempt to make his payments, a settlement was finally effected for 
248,540 acres, and Symmes was prepared to dispose of clear titles to new-com- 
ers. In 1788, a town was established within the boundaries of his grant, at the 
mouth of the little Miami, known as Columbia, and in the early part of 1787 
another was formed opposite the mouth of the Licking River, by name Losanti- 
ville, analyzed by a frontier scholar — ville, the town ; anti, opposite to ; os, the 
mouth of; L, Licking. 

Judge Symmes had projected building his main town at North Bend. This 
plan was frustrated by reason of Ensign Luce — who had been commissioned by 
Gen. Harmar to erect a fort — deciding that North Bend was not suitable for the 
purpose. He selected Losantiville for the purpose, and Fort Washington was 
the result. In 1790, Gov. St. Clair was called to inspect the settlement, and 
proceeded to organize Hamilton County, at the same time calling the town 
Cincinnati. 

It will be remembered that Connecticut ceded most of her western lands to 
General Government, retaining, however, a minor portion. As the settlements 
began to increase on the "Virginia Reserve" and between the Scioto and Miami 
Rivers, all those holding claims were not disposed to part with them, while 
others were anxious to secure grants for the purpose of speculation, rather than 
the advancement of civilization. The Scioto Company was a questionable ad- 
herent of the Ohio Company, and began operations, which resulted well, what- 
ever their purpose may have been. 

Gen. Putnam cleared the land and directed the building of 100 dwellings and 
six block-houses. During 1791, the colony arrived, consisting of 500 persons. 
Only ten of these were tillers of the soil. Viscount Malartie ventured into the 
wilderness, but instead of settling, joined Gen. St. Clair's army, and was ulti- 
mately his aid-de-camp. Indian conquests were not to his taste, and he soon 
returned to France. This new colony was essentially French, and its location 
was Gallia County. The name " Gallipolis " was selected. 

These settlers, being unaccustomed to severe toil, and disinclined to learn 
its hard lesson, soon became demoralized, through deprivation and absolute 
want. Congress came to their aid with a land grant of 24,000 acres, but few 
of them cared to enter claims, and soon all traces of the old town were lost, and 
its inhabitants scattered. 



98 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

Gen. St. Clair having become unpopular, through repeated failures in Indian 
campaigns, and Gen. Anthony Wayne having wintered at Fort Washington, 
the spring of 1793 was opened by a march of the army, well disciplined and 
led by "Mad Anthony," on a campaign that must crush the rapidly increasing 
depredations of the Indians, notwithstanding which these new settlements had 
been made. All winter, Gen. Wayne had dispatched scouts, spies and hardy 
frontiersmen on errands of discovery, and his plans were, therefore, practically 
matured. His army cut its way through the forests, gathering horses, provis- 
ions, etc., as they marched, and finally came nearly up to the enemy before dis- 
covery. They again returned to Fort Washington, as the Commander-in-Chief, 
under the order of the Executive, had proclaimed inaction until the Northern 
or British Commissioners and Indians should convene and discuss the situation 
and prospects. Gen. Wayne, meantime, drilled his men at " Hobson's Choice," 
a place near Fort Washington. 

The Commissioners came from Detroit, and assembled at Capt. Matthew 
Elliot's house, at the mouth of the Detroit River. 

A meeting was called at Sandusky, and twenty Indian representatives were 
present, to argue the grounds of a treaty. Simon Girty acted as interpreter, 
and has been vehemently accused of unfaithfulness in this trust, since he did 
not advocate the adjustment of matters on any grounds. The Indians reiterated 
their rights and wrongs, and offered to receive the half of the purchase money, 
provided the actual settlers would accept it as the price of the land, move away, 
and leave the original owners the proud possessors of their lands. The Govern- 
ment would then expend less money than they would have done in a full Indian 
purchase, or a long and cruel war. This being out of the question and rejected, 
a decided specification was made that the Ohio boundary was to be obliterated, 
and a new one adopted, that encompassed a mere fraction of territory. This 
was also rejected. The Indians indignantly bade the Americans to go back to 
their father, and they would return to their tribes. 

The council was terminated in confusion. It is highly probable that some 
settlement might have been made, had it not been for English influence which 
instigated the savages, in the hope of ultimately making conquests for them- 
selves. The commander at Detroit evinced great uneasiness whenever there 
was a shadow of an opportunity for a peaceful understanding. 

On Christmas Day, 1793, a detachment of the army encamped on the 
identical ground made memorable by St. Clair's horrible defeat. A reward was 
offered for every human skull that was found, and 600 were gathered. The 
bones of the victims were removed from the spot where they built Fort Recovery. 
This point was left in charge of Alexander Gibson. 

Early in the year 1794, Lord Dorchester addressed the Commissioners in 
behalf of the English. Even at this time. Gen. Wayne, to avoid the terrors of 
a great war, again made overtures of peace, dispatching Freeman, Trueman and 
Hardin, all initiated in savage tactics, on errands of mercy — and the three men 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 99 

were inhumanly murdered. The English went so far as to order Gov. Simcoe 
to erect a fort, in April, 1794, on the Rapids of the Maumee, thus rousing the 
Indians by a bold proof that they had espoused their cause. In May, the 
Spanish, who were ever jealous of colonial encroachments, were willing to aid 
in a general raid against the Americans. 

In June, a scouting party from Fort Recovery, fell into an Indian ambush 
and suffered severely, their foes following them to the very entrance. The siege 
continued for two days. It was plainly evident that white men augmented the 
Indian force ; ounce balls and buck-shot surely came from their rifles. Again, 
the Indians immediately began a search beneath the logs where pieces of artillery 
were hidden during the great battle of St. Clair, but fortunately. Fort Recovery 
had the use of them and they accomplished much. 

On July 26, Scott joined Wayne at Greenville, with 1,600 mounted 
Kentuckians, and on the 28th, the legion took up its line of deadly march. 
Halting at Girty's Town, they built Fort Mary's, later on Fort Adams. Throw- 
ing the enemy off their guard by feints and counter-marching, the troops surprised 
the Indians, and without the slightest resistance took possession of their villages 
at the confluence of the Auglaize and Maumee. They found provision in 
abundance, and tarried a week building Fort Defiance. 

Again Gen. Wayne would have made terms of peace, on the principle of the 
Government to arrest bloodshed, but the Indians were rendered cruelly intent 
on war by an addition of a body of British militia from Detroit, and by regulars 
stationed at a fort they had built on the left bank of the river, below the rapids, 
called Fort Miami. The "Fallen Timber" ground was selected as the field 
for a battle by the savages, in the expectation that the trees cast down by a 
tornado and there remaining, would seriously impede American progress. 

August 15th, Wayne marched down the river, and at Roche de Boeuf, erected 
a fortification for their stores and luggage, naming it " Fort Deposit." On the 
20th, the American army began the attack. Maj. Price and Maj. Gen. Scott 
.were heroic in their assistance, and after a sharp, deadly conflict, the enemy 
was routed, fleeing in confusion, and leaving their dead and wounded strewn 
thickly over the field. The savages were pressed to the front always, and when 
the carnage was painful, the British troops not engaged looked on coolly from the 
fort and offered no assistance, aiding their own, however, when possible. Gen. 
Wayne being an ardent soldier, was apt to forget his position, and impetuously 
place himself constantly in danger. Lieut. Harrison is reported to have 
requested the General not to forget to give him field orders, in his own partici- 
pation in the battle, and to have received the reply that the standing order was 
always to charge hayonets. 

Notwithstanding the treaty of 1783, and the fact that the British were tres- 
passing, they encroached upon the Ohio soil, and essayed to vindicate their 
action by discarding American claims and recognizing the Indian rights, whereby 
they might seek their own colonization and make treaties. 



100 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

Maj. Campbell was in command at Fort Miami, and when he saw the sava> 
ges being cut down almost mercilessly, he not only refrained from offering aid, 
but when, in their desperate retreat, they attempted to enter the fort for pro- 
tection, he ordered the doors closed in their faces. 

On the following day, Campbell sent a message to Wayne, demanding a 
reason for hostile action, adding that Great Britain was not now at war with the 
United States. He received a characteristic reply. 

During the Revolution, Detroit was an important British point, and the 
Maumee was its outlet. Therefore, the English clung tenaciously to this pos- 
session, giving, as it did, the advantage of the great fur trade. The English 
Government evidently regretted ceding so much of her territory in the West, 
and were searching for an excuse to quarrel and attempt to regain at least a part 
of what they had lost. Their policy was to sustain the bitter hatred between 
the Indians and the Americans. 

The settlement of the Maumee Valley had been rapid, but the very name 
was an agony of remembrance of frightful massacres and atrocities. Col. 
McKee, the British Indian agent, and his assistant, Capt. Elliott, were from 
Pennsylvania, but being Tories, they had assimilated with the Indians. They 
joined the Shawnee tribe and married Indian wives, and made their fortunes 
thereby, through British appointments to secure the savage interests. The 
Indians were directly served by McKee and Elliott, with ammunition and sup- 
plies, during the Wayne conflict. 

Several skirmishes ensued, but severe weather approaching, the troops 
moved for quarters, and on the 14th day of September, they attacked the Miami 
villages, captured them with provisions and stores, and erected a fort, leaving 
it in charge of Lieut. Col. Hamtramck. With cheers and rifle-shooting, this post 
was named Fort Wayne. The main army marched into Greenville and went into 
winter quarters. 

Wayne had achieved a brilliant victory, but his success did not overcome his 
practical reasoning, and he was unwilling to subject his men to a severe winter's 
campaign unless necessity was peremptory. 

Gov. Simcoe, Col. McKee and a few of the most savage Indian chiefs 
attempted to rally the Indians for a new attack. Gov. Simcoe, of Detroit, was 
aware that the mounted volunteers under Wayne had been allowed to return 
home, and that the term of service of a portion of the " Legion " was about to 
expire. 

The British and Indians held a conference, but the latter were weary with 
fighting for the glory of the Great Father at Detroit, and did not enter into the 
plan. The winter proved most poverty stricken to them, the English failing to 
supply them, and their crops and sustenance having been destroyed by Wayne. 
They were then fully prepared to listen to the faintest signal from Wayne to 
conciliate affairs, and the Wyandots and Delawares were the first to confer with 
him on the subject. Their position was exposed and they had suffered severely. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 101 

They soon influenced other tribes to consider the question. As a mass, they 
were convinced of their inability to overcome the Americans, and had become 
impatient and disgusted with the duplicity of their British friends, who had not 
hesitated to sacrifice them in every instance, and who deserted them in their 
hour of distress. United, they sued for peace. Terms were made, and about 
the 1st of August, the famous Greenville treaty was ratified and established, 
and the old Indian war in Ohio terminated. 

The Wyandots, Delawares, Shawnees, Chippewas, Ottawas, Pottawatomies, 
Miamis, Eel Rivers, Weas, Kickapoos, Piankeshaws and Kaskaskias were thus 
conciliated. The old Indian boundary line, settled upon at the Fort Mcintosh 
treaty, was retained, and the southwestern line was prolonged from old Fort 
Recovery, southwest of the Ohio River. 

" The general boundary lines between the lands of the United States and 
the lands of the said Indian tribes shall begin at the mouth of the Cuyahoga 
River, and thence run up the same to the portage between that and the Tus- 
carawas Branch of the Muskingum ; thence down that branch to the crossing- 
place above Fort Laurens ; thence westerly to a fork of that branch of the 
Great Miami River (running into the Ohio), at or near which fork stood Lar- 
amie's store — Mary's River, which is a branch of the Miami that runs into Lake 
Erie ; thence a westerly course to Fort Recovery, which stands on a branch of 
the Wabash ; thence southwesterly on a direct line to the Ohio, so as to inter- 
sect that river opposite the mouth of the Kentucky or Cuttawa River." 

This boundary line has, ever since this memorable treaty, been a prominent 
landmark, and may now be traced as the southern boundary line of Stark, Ash- 
land, Richland and Marion Counties, and the northern line, in part, of Tuscar- 
awas and Knox. Old Fort Recovery was located in Mercer, near the Indiana 
line. Laramie's store was in Shelby. 

Within the Indian Reservation, the United States held sixteen distinct sec- 
tions of land, for the purpose of military posts, so arranged that the Govern- 
ment had full right of way north and west. 

The "Joy treaty " between England and the United States was ratified early 
in 1796, and the British were obliged to vacate Detroit and Fort Miami, and recall 
the fact that they had no claim or right to either points. Gen. Wayne received 
them, and accompanied by Gov. St. Clair, proceeded to Detroit. Here the lat- 
ter laid out a county, calling it Wayne, and designated Detroit as its seat of 
justice. This was the fifth county in the Northwest Territory, north of the 
Ohio River. Washington County, with Marietta as a seat of justice, was first 
established ; next Hamilton, with Cincinnati as a county seat. Wayne County 
was organized in 1796, and included about twenty-six of the present counties, 
in the northwest part of the State, covering about a quarter of its area, besides 
parts of Indiana and Michigan. 

In other parts of the State, the population was rapidly increasing. In May, 
1795, the Legislature authorized a committee to institute measures for the 



102 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

disposal of their Western lands. The Virginia and Connecticut Reservations 
required some action on the part of Government, inasmuch as ceding a portion 
and re-selling had in a measure disturbed free titles. Fifty-six persons negoti- 
ated and purchased lands, receiving quit-claim titles and entire rights. They 
re-sold to John Morgan and John Caldwell and Jonathan Bruce, in trust. Thus 
3,000,000 acres were prepared for settlement. Upon the quit-claim deeds of 
these representatives, the full title of lands included within the old Western 
Reserve rests. 

Judge Symmes began his active operations in 1796, and by the close of 
1797 all lands east of the Cuyahoga were laid out in townships, five miles square. 
The agent of the Connecticut Land Company was Gen. Moses Cleveland, and in 
his honor the leading city in the Reserve was named. Some townships were 
retained for private sale, and others were disposed of by lottery, in 1798. 

Wayne's treaty led to the formation of Dayton, and the peopling of that 
section. A difficulty arose regarding the original Symmes grant and its modifi- 
cation. Symmes had sold land titles, in good faith, beyond his vested power, 
and Congress was now called upon to adjust these claims and titles. Seventeen 
days after the Wayne or Greenville treaty, St. Clair, Wilkinson, Dayton and 
Ludlow contracted with Symmes for seven and eight ranges, between the Mad 
and Little Miami Rivers. November 4, 1795, Mr. Ludlow laid out Dayton. 

During the years 1790 and 1795, the Governor and Supreme Judges of the 
Northwest Territory had published sixty-four statutes. Thirty-four of these 
were ratified at Cincinnati, for the purpose of forming a complete statutory. It 
was termed the " Maxwell Code." 

Mr. Nathaniel Massie founded a town on the Scioto, which was called 
Chillicothe. The Iroquois treaty had previously invited settlement, and embryo 
towns had begun as early as 1769, under the protection of the Connecticut 
Company. A land company was organized in Hartford, Conn., in 1795, sending 
out forty-three surveyors to divide the townships of that part of the Western 
Reserve, east of the Cuyahoga, five miles square. The first resident of the town 
of Cleveland was Mr. Job Stiles and family, and Mrs, Stiles was the mother of 
the first white child born on the Reserve. Some other parts of the territory 
progressed more rapidly in population. 

Along the Muskingum, Scioto and Miami, towns began to spring up, which 
might perhaps better be termed farming settlements. 

Cincinnati was increasing, and in 1796, had reached 100 cabins, 15 frame 
houses and 600 persons, with prospects for a firm future. 

The Virginia Military Land District was between the Little Miami and 
Scioto, and was rapidly increasing in population. 

Mr. Massie was unceasinsr in his efibrts to advance the West, and laid out 
Manchester, offering inducements that could not fail to attract settlers. 

Ebenezer Zane procured a grant in consideration of opening a bridle path 
from the Ohio River at Wheeling, over the country via Chillicothe, to Limestone, 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 103 

in Kentucky. The year following, the United States mail was taken over 
this route. 

The comparatively tranquil condition of the country and the inducements it 
had to offer encouraged a rapid settlement of the Territory. A prominent 
feature of the early growth of Ohio was the general prevalence of reliable, 
stanch principle. The people were of the good colonial stock. 

In 1800, Chillicothe was denominated the seat of the Territorial govern- 
ment, and the first stone edifice in the State was begun in this town, soon after 
this appointment. About this time, a serious difficulty suddenly occurred to 
those individuals who had taken lands on the Western Reserve of Connecticut. 
That Eastern power had, it is true, ceded a part of her claim to the General 
Government, and had stipulated for the sale of certain other tracts. At the 
same time, the State had not signed away her jurisdiction over some sections of 
her claim, and those unfortunate people in and about Dayton found themselves 
without any government upon which they might depend in a case of emergency. 
The matter was, accordingly, presented to the Territorial government, which 
interceded with the Eastern State, and, sanctioned by the Assembly at Congress, 
Connecticut relinquished her jurisdiction in 1800. 

Cleveland was an important point, and was growing in the mean time. How- 
ever, it had suffered exceedingly from the ravages of fever and ague. For a 
period of two months, there was not an individual, but a boy thirteen years 
of age, able to procure food for the others. Flour was out of all rational con- 
sideration, and the meal upon which they lived was pounded by hand. In 
1799, Williams and Myatt erected a grist-mill at the falls, near Newbury. 

A startling agitation occurred in 1801, which in these days would cause but a 
ripple in the political sea, but happening during a time when legislative dignity 
and state authority were regarded with reverential awe, it created the most 
intense feeling. Great indignation was openly expressed. 

The Governor and several legislators felt that they had been insulted in 
the performance of their respective duties, at Chillicothe, while the Assembly 
was in session in 1801. No measures being taken by the authorities at the 
capital to protect the Executive, a law was passed removing the seat of govern- 
ment to Cincinnati. 

This circumstance led to a general consideration of the advantages of a 
State government, and a popular desire was expressed for a change in this 
respect. Gov. St. Clair had fallen into disfavor through his failure as a military 
leader and his failures in the Indian campaigns, and from his assuming powers 
which were not vested in him, especially the subdivision of counties. He was 
also identified with the Federal party, which was not popular in Ohio. The 
opposition was strong in the Assembly, but was in the minority in the House of 
Representatives. The boundary question was agitated at the same time. The 
intention was to thus effect the limits of Ohio that a State government would 
necessarily have to be postponed. Against this measure, Tiffin, Worthington, 



104 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

Langham, Darlington, Massie, Dunlavy and Morrow strenuously objected. After 
considerable discussion, Thomas Worthington obtained leave of absence from 
the session, and journeyed to Washington in behalf of a State government. It 
was obvious that the Territory, under the ordinance, was not entitled to a 
change. Massie suggested the feasibility of appointing a committee to address 
Conoress on the subject. This the House refused to pass. 

An effort was then made to take a census, but any action on this subject 
was postponed until the next session. 

During all this ineffectual struggle, Worthington was doing his best in Wash- 
ington, and succeeded so well that on March 4, a report was made to the House 
in favor of the State government. This report was made on a basis that the 
census, in 1800, summed up over 45,000 for Ohio. 

April 30, Congress passed a law carrying into effect the views expressed on 
this subject. A convention met on November 1. Its members were generally 
Jeffersonian in their views. Gov. St. Clair proposed to address them as their 
chief executive magistrate. Several members resolutely opposed this action, 
insisting upon a vote, which, through courtesy and not a sense of right, resulted 
in permitting him to address them. He advised the postponement of the State 
government until the original eastern portion of the State was suflBciently pop- 
ulated to demand this right. Only one, out of thirty-three, voted to sustain 
the Governor in these views. 

The convention agreed to the views of Congress. November 29, the agree- 
ment was ratified and signed, as was the constitution of the State of Ohio. 
The General Assembly was ordered to convene the first Tuesday of March, 1803. 

This was carried into effect. A constitution was framed for the new State, 
adhering to the Ordinance of 1787. The rights and duties of citizens were 
plainly set forth, and general business was transacted. The new State consti- 
tution was signed by : 

Edward Tiffin, President and Representative from Ross County. 

Adams County — Joseph Darlington, Israel Donalson, Thomas Vinker. 

Belmont County — James Caldwell and Elijah Woods. 

Clermont County — Philip Gatch and James Sargent. 

Fairfield County — Henry Abrams and Emanuel Carpenter. 

Hamilton County — John W. Brown, Charles Willing Byrd, Francis Dun- 
lavy, William Goforth, John Gitchel, Jeremiah Morrow, John Paul, John Riley, 
John Smith and John Wilson. 

Jefferson County — Rudolph Blair, George Humphry, John Milligan, Nathan 
Updegraff and Bezaleel Wells. 

Ross County — Michael Baldwin, James Grubb, Nathaniel Massie and F. 
Worthington. 

Washington County — Ephraim Cutler, Benjamin Ives Gilman, John Mc- 
Intyre and Rufus Putnam. 

Thomas Scott, Secretary. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 105 

The first Legislature of the State, under the new constitution, created eight 
new counties, viz., Gallia, Scioto, Franklin, Columbiana, Butler, Warren, 
Greene and Montgomery. 

The first State officers were : Michael Baldwin, Speaker of the House ; Na- 
thaniel Massie, President of the Senate ; William Creighton, Secretary of 
State ; Col. Thomas Gibson, Auditor ; William McFarland, Treasurer ; Return 
J. Meigs, Jr., Samuel Huntington and William Sprigg, Judges of the Supreme 
Court ; Francis Dunlavy, Willis Silliman and Calvin Pease, Judges of the Dist- 
rict Court. 

The General Assembly held a second session in December, at which time 
the militia law was revised, also giving aliens equal proprietary rights with native 
citizens. The revenue system was modified and improved. Acts authorizing 
the incorporation of townships were passed, and for the establishment of coun- 
ties. Furthermore, Jacob White, Jeremiah Morrow and William Ludlow were 
authorized to locate a township for collegiate purposes, according to previous 
specified terms of Congress. The Symmes grant and the college specification 
collided materially, but the irregularity of the former was not to create any 
inconvenience for the latter. Mr. Symmes had in good faith marked ofi" this 
township, but circumstances preventing the perfection of his plans, that lapsed 
with the others, and the original township was now entered by settlers. 

Accordingly, thirty-six sections, west of the Great Miami, were selected, 
and are now held by the Miami University. 

Gov. St. Clair, notwithstanding his unpopularity, was re-appointed. 

Ohio was under a system of government which guaranteed the best improve- 
ments ; her Legislature being composed of her best statesmen, and the laws 
passed having the general interest of the people embodied in them. 

A bill was passed, appropriating the net proceeds of the land lying within 
said State, sold by Congress after the 20th day of June, 1802, after deducting 
all expenses incident to the same, to be applied to the laying-out of roads, 
leading from the navigable waters emptying into the Atlantic to the Ohio, to 
the said State, and through the same ; such roads to be laid out under the 
authority of Congress, with the consent of the several States through which the 
road shall pass. In conformity with these provisions, steps were taken, in 1805, 
which resulted in the making of the Cumberland or National road. 

Burr, at this time, began an organization for the ostensible purpose of 
making a settlement on the Wachita, but his party being armed and his plans 
not being frankly disclosed, an investigation proved that his real design was a 
mutinous revolt against Governmental powers, and to gratify his ambition by 
founding his own kingdom in Mexico, and defeating the Spanish. If success 
crowned his efforts, his ultimate victory was to rupture the Union by forcing the 
Western States to withdraw from their allegiance. By gaining an influence 
over the noble but misguided Blennerhasset, he established his headquarters on 
his island in the Ohio. The history of Burr's expedition is already well known. 



106 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

The final capture by Gov. Tiffin, of ten boats loaded with stores, on the Mus- 
kingum, and four near Marietta, decided the fate of this scheme, and Burr was 
finally arrested and put on trial May 22, 1807. 

The advancement of the settlement of the State was in no manner impeded, 
and towns sprang up, farms were laid out, and all other improvements inaugu- 
rated which tended to a permanent prosperity. 

In 1808, Tecumseh left Greenville to join the Prophet on the banks of the 
Tippecanoe, a tributary of the Upper Wabash, on a tract of land granted herein 
by the Pottawatomies. 

The Indians were virtually by treaty allowed but a small proportion of land 
within the boundaries of the State, and were maintaining peaceful attitudes 
toward the whites, with exceptional border depredations, which were settled by 
mutual understanding. 

Although the United States had gained independence, and was treating with 
England as with other foreign powers, the British persisted in violating the 
national rights of the United States, impressing American seamen into the 
British service, seizing American vessels engaged with France in trade, and 
otherwise violating the rights of an independent nation, at peace with the Brit- 
ish power. 

The mission upon which Henry was sent by the British, to create disturb- 
ance between the States, and thus broken, to weaken the strength of the Gen- 
eral Government, added fuel to the fire, and united indignation cried for war. 

British agents again bargained with the Indians of the Wabash and Maumee 
Valleys, desiring them to inaugurate another war upon the western sections and 
to make a desperate attack upon the settlements south of the lakes. The Brit- 
ish agent at Maiden negotiated in rifles, powder, ball, merchandise, lead, blank- 
ets and shirts. The Indians were inspired again with the hope that the whites 
would be driven back, and that all the country north of the Ohio would again 
revert to them. 

The Canadians in league with the English, gave the savages unlimited 
quantities of whisky, which naturally aroused their fierce natures to acts of 
violence and blood. It is highly probable that the use of liquor was the main 
cause of the deterioration of the best traits of the Indian character, after the 
Revolution. Again, many unscrupulous men upon the frontier did not hesi- 
tate to commit the most merciless crimes against the Indians, such was the 
prejudice against them, and the courts invariably failed to indict them for these 
atrocities. This error on the part of the Americans served to influence the 
savages against them. 

At this time, the seats of justice were distant over a hundred miles each 
from the other, uninhabited tracts frequently extending between them which were 
absolute wildernesses. The routes were in many cases difficult and circuitous. 

As early as 1808, there was a mail communication for the people on the 
Lower Maumee, many days elapsing between the arrivals and departures of 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 107 

the same, however. Horace Gunn was the carrier. Benoni Adams brought 
the news from Cleveland to the same point, his trip requiring a fortnight. It 
must be remembered that this journey was mostly made on foot. The Black 
Swamp could not be traversed in any other manner. 

THE WAR OF 1812. 

The war of 1812 can be called a continuation of the Revolution, with all 
justice. Although rumors had reached Ohio, that active preparations were 
being made for general action, no official tidings had been sent to Hull, com- 
mandea'-in-chief of the Western forces. 

The Secretary of War, instead of sending a special messenger directly to 
Hull, communicated with the post adjacent, depending upon a continuation of 
the news from that point. At the same time, advices were sent the British 
post at Maiden and Detroit. Hull sent out a packet with official papers, stores, 
etc., the day previous to that on which the official intelligence arrived that an 
open rupture existed between the two powers, and this was of course captured. 

The Western forces marched to Detroit and crossed over to Sandwich, pre- 
paratory to attacking Maiden, a post most favorable for the transportation of 
stores, troops, etc. which was therefore considered valuable. 

Peter Minard first gave the news to the settlers of the Maumee. He had 
heard from a Delaware chief, who assured him a general massacre was to take 
place in the valley. Maj. Spaffijrd paid no heed to this "idle fear," until a 
few days thereafter a messenger came to his quarters, reporting a band of fifty 
Pottawatomies on the march to join the hostile tribes near Maiden. They had 
plundered and burned Monclova, and had nearly reached the rapids. 

The Major, with his family and settlers, immediately launched a barge on 
the river and were able to reach old Fort Miami just as the savages reached 
Maumee City. They could plainly witness the flames that devoured their old 
homes. They kept on their way in their miserable craft, until they reached 
Milan, where they learned that the entire country was in danger. 

Although the Indians were defeated in the battle of Tippecanoe in the fall 
of 1811, they plotted vigorously with the English for the invasion of Ohio.- 

Gen. William Hull marched from the southwestern part of the State 
directly north, crossing the counties of Champaign, Logan, Hardin, Hancock 
and Wood, establishing military posts along the route and cutting a way 
through the wilderness of the unsettled portions. He crossed the Maumee on 
the 1st of July, and marched to Detroit. 

Hull was evidently actuated in his succeeding disgraceful failures by two 
fears — lack of confidence in the ability of his troops, and the belief that they 
might desert him in action. He proclaimed freedom, and a necessity of sub- 
mitting to the Canadians under existing circumstances. He held out induce- 
ments to the British regulars to desert their cause and essayed to pacify the 
savages, but he accomplished nothing beyond jeopardizing the American cause 



108 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

and disgracing his army. His men became restless. Col. Miller and Col. 
Cass were delighted when detailed on scouting expeditions, and did not hesi- 
tate to attack advancing squads of the enemy. At last, an attack was made on 
the Niagara frontier, and Hull speedily abandoned his project and collected his 
forces at Detroit. 

Meantime, Col. Proctor had reached Maiden, and quickly perceiving the 
advantao-e of a post at that point, whereby he could cut off supplies and starve 
Hull into subjection, he massed his forces about this section, captured Van 
Horn and his two hundred men, and withstood the attack of Miller, although 
he gained nothing by so doing. Again Hull displayed his weakness by recall- 
ing his forces from further molestations. 

Gen. Brock, however, reached Maiden on the 13th of August, 1812, and 
began war preparations. 

Gen. Dearborn placed a force on the Niagara frontier, but an armistice was 
made with the British. Hull dispatched a third party under McArthur, to 
open communications to the Raisin River. 

Gen. Brock appeared at Sandwich and began to erect batteries, which Hull 
would not allow to be molested. The result was, that on the 26th of August 
Detroit was surrendered to the enemy, and not a blow had been struck in its 
defense. 

By this dastardly act, 1,400 brave men who had not been permitted to 
make a single effort to sustain the American cause, were surrendered to 300 
English regulars, 400 Canadians and their Indian allies. Gen. Hull was, in 
consequence of this series of "mistakes," accused of treason and cowardice, 
and convicted of the latter. By the middle of August, the British had gained 
the control over most of the Northwestern Territory. 

The appointment of William Henry Harrison to the position of com- 
mander in chief of the Western forces, was most opportune. He speedily 
raised a vigorous army, and advanced by three routes to the foot of the rapids. 

Gen. Harrison commanded the right wing, and marched by the way of Upper 
Sandusky, where he located his depot of supplies. Gen. Tupper commanded 
the center. Fort McArthur, in Hardin County, being his base, while Gen. Win- 
chester marched from Fort Defiance down the Maumee to the foot of the rapids. 

A large force of British and Indians moved up the left bank of the Mau- 
mee toward Fort Wayne, and Gen. Harrison, to intercept them, marched to 
the confluence of the Auglaize with the Maumee. 

Harrison was aware that the enemy would be also hemmed in by Win- 
chester. The weather was rainy, and the prospects were that a most unfortun- 
ate season was to follow the expected engagements. Harrison heard that 
Winchester had reached Fort Defiance, and that the Indians and British were 
retreating down the Maumee. He followed, and marched to Winchester's 
camp, where he arrived in season to quell a mutiny under command of Col. 
Allen, of the Kentucky troops. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 109 

In January, 1813, Winchester had reached the rapids, where he received 
tidino-s that Frenchtown was menaced and exposed. Without orders, he sent a 
party to the rescue, which defeated the enemy. The weather was intensely 
cold, and the company lay within eighteen miles of Maiden, where the enemy 
was collected in full force, consequently re-enforcements must be dispatched 
immediately or the town again left to its fate. 

Winchester then marched with a force of 259 men, and upon arriving at 
nightfall, insisted upon remaining on open ground, although warned repeatedly 
that this would be a most dangerous experiment. 

In the morning, he was surprised by the enemy, massed directly before 
him, with a battery within three hundred yards of his camp, and a shower of 
bombs, balls and grape-shot falling among his exposed troops, and the yells of 
Indians reminding him of his fatal error. Lewis, who led the party out in the 
beginning and had apprehended the danger, bravely defended himself behind 
garden pickets, Winchester was defeated on the 22d of January, 1813, and 
the Indians were permitted to massacre the prisoners and the settlers. 

Harrison fell back to the foot of the rapids. On the 1st of February, he 
began the construction of Fort Meigs. On the 27th of April, Proctor and 
Tecumseh attacked this fort, and laid siege with the full expectation of success. 
The stipulation was that Gen. Harrison was to be delivered to Tecumseh. 
While the balls and bombs were making havoc with the fort, the Indians were 
climbing trees and pouring a galling fire down upon the troops. Gen. Proctor 
invited Harrison to surrender, which was politely declined, with the assurance 
that the British General would have the opportunity to distinguish himself as a 
■soldier before such a proceeding was enacted. 

Gen. Clay was descending the Maumee with 1,200 Kentuckians in flat 
boats. Orders went from Harrison that 800 men should land on the left bank, 
take and spike the British cannon, and then to enter the fort, from which 
soldiers were to issue to assist the re-enforcements. 

Capt. Hamilton was to pilot Gen. Clay to the fort, cutting their way 
through. All succeeded, Col. Dudley taking the batteries and spiking the 
cannon. But his men, too much elated by their success, against orders, and 
against the repeated expostulations of Col. Dudley, insisted on pursuing the 
Indians. Col. Dudley would not desert them. This act proved their ruin. 
By a decoy, they were led into a defile which proved an ambush, and the men 
found themselves surrounded by savages, without means of escape. 

A most frightful massacre began, and every man would have fallen had not 
Tecumseh sternly forbidden the cowardly carnage. One of his principal chiefs 
ignored this order, and the next instant the great warrior buried his hatchet in 
his head. The brave Col. Dudley was, however, tomahawked and scalped. 

There were no immediate signs that the fort would be surrendered, and the 
siege was raised on the 9th of May. It was renewed on the 20th of July, and 
abandoned a few days later. The enemy decided this stronghold was invulnerable. 



110 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

On the 1st of August, the enemy proceeded to Fort Stevenson, at Lower 
Sandusky, garrisoned by 150 men under Maj. Croghan. The fort had the 
use of but one piece of cannon. The enemy with Tecumseh's Indians num- 
bered 3,300 strong, with six pieces of cannon. 

Gen. Proctor again tendered the offer to surrender, adding that a refusal 
would only bring about a useless resistance, and a massacre by the Indians. 
The reply was, that before the fort went over to the British, not an American 
would be left to be massacred, as they should hold out to the last man. Proc- 
tor opened fire. The first movement was an assault upon the northwest angle 
of the fort, as if to make a breach and thus carry the works. The command- 
ant strengthened that point by bags of sand, and during the night stealthily 
placing his one cannon in a concealed position, he filled it with slugs. 

The following day, the fire again swept the northwest corner, and, evening 
approaching, a column of 350 men swept up within twenty yards of the walls. 
They were met by the musketry, which had little effect, and the ditch was soon 
filled with men.. The next instant the hidden cannon, so placed as to sweep 
the ditch, suddenly began action, and the surprised assailants quickly recoiled, 
and the fort was saved, with the loss of only one man. 

The next morning, the enemy had disappeared, evidently in haste, as guns, 
clothing and stores were left behind. They had lost over one hundred and 
fifty men by this useless attempt. Croghan had previously received orders to 
evacuate the fort from Gen. Harrison, and his determination to hold the position 
merited Harrison's reprimand and remand of commission. Such was the sev- 
erity of military law. However, the rank of Colonel was immediately conferred 
upon him by the President, for his gallantry. The ladies of Chillicothe pre- 
sented him with an elegant testimonial in the shape of a sword. 

It was decided to make a naval warfare effectual in the recovery of the 
Northwestern Territory, and accordingly vessel-building began under Commo- 
dore Perry's supervision. 

The British looked upon this proceeding with derision, fully intending tO' 
use these boats for their own purpose. They publicly proclaimed their intention. 

By the 1st of August, 1813, Commodore Perry set sail a flotilla, the Law- 
rence and the Niagara, of twenty guns each, with smaller vessels following. 
Some difficulty was encountered in launching the larger vessels, on account of 
the shallowness of the water. 

Perry's first destination was Put-in-Bay, thirty miles from Maiden, where 
the British fleet lay under the guns of the fort. On the 10th of September, 
the British fleet — exceeding the American by ten guns — under Commodore 
Barclay, appeared off Put-in-Bay, distant about ten miles. Perry immediately 
set sail. The wind shifting, the Americans had the advantage. 

Perry hoisted the Union Jack. A general preparation was made for the 
conflict. An ominous silence settled over all as the fleets approached. A 
bugle sounded on the enemy's ship Detroit, and a furious fire was opened upon 



♦HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. Ill 

the Lawrence. The frightful and desperate battle that ensued is so familiar 
that it is not necessary for us to repeat its details. It forever remains in his- 
tory as a prominent, desperate struggle that turned the tide most decisively in 
favor of the Americans. Hand to hand, for three hours, this furious struggle 
surged, resulting in a pronounced victory for the Americans. 

Commodore Perry immediately requested parole for his severely wounded 
antagonist, Commodore Barclay. Capt. Elliott was at this engagement highly 
commended by Perry for his bravery. 

Gen. Harrison now made preparations to follow Proctor, and reached Mai- 
den on the 27th of September. 

Proctor had retreated to Sandwich, and thence Harrison followed him, 
overtaking the enemy on the 9th of October, on the bank of the Thames. An 
engagement ensued, which was not particularly marked in its events, but which 
practically terminated the war in the Northwest. 

Tecumseh fell during this battle, and his death disheartened the savages to 
such an extent that they were willing to make terms of peace. Accordingly 
a treaty was concluded on the 22d of July, 1814, with the Wyandots, Dela- 
wares, Shawnees, Senecas and Miamis, the tribes engaged in hostilities. 

Again Ohio was able to turn her attention to the improvements within her 
own boundaries. Weary and disabled though she was, her ambition and 
energy were unimpaired. The struggle had been severe, but a grand reward 
had been won, and peace and independence belonged to these sturdy, earnest, 
pioneers. 

In 1815, a town was founded near Fort Meigs, and, in 1816, Gen. John 
E. Hunt and Judge Robert A. Forsythe located at Maumee. 

BANKING. 

Up to the year 1817, Ohio had no banking system, and on the 28th of 
January of that year, the United States Bank opened a branch at Cincinnati, 
and yet another during the following October at Chillicothe. These branches 
found a large amount of business to transact, and while being of assistance in 
various ways to the State, also received a fine revenue themselves. The State 
therefore resolved upon a tax levy, and, in 1819, the branches were to pay 
$50,000 each, and the State Auditor was authorized to issue his warrant for 
the collection of the same. 

The bank branches demurred, but the State was decided, and the banks 
accordingly filed a bill in chancery, in the United States Circuit Court, setting 
forth reasons whereby their prayer that Ralph Osborn, State Auditor, should 
be restrained from making such collection, should be seriously considered. 

Osborn being counseled not to appear on the day designated in the writ, an 
injunction was obtained, with the security given in the shape of bonds from the 
bank, to the amount of $100,000. On the 14th of September, the bank sent a 
commissioner to Columbus, who served upon the Auditor a copy of the petition 



112 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

for the injunction, and a subpoena to make an appearance before the court 
on the first Monday in the following January. Osborn submitted both the 
petition and the injunction to the Secretary of State, with his warrant for col- 
lecting the tax. Legally, the matter was somewhat complicated. 

The Auditor desired the Secretary of State to take legal advice, and if the 
papers did not actually amount to an injunction, to give orders for the execu- 
tion of the warrant. 

The decision was that the papers did not equal a valid injunction. The State 
writ for collection was therefore given over to John L, Harper, with directions 
to enter the banking-house and demand the payment of the tax. In case of a 
refusal, the vault was to be entered and a levy made upon the amount required. 
No violence was to be used, and if force was used to deter the act, the 
same was to be reported to a proper magistrate and an afiidavit made to that 
fact. 

On September 17, Mr. Harper went about his errand, taking with him T. 
Orr and J. MacCollister. After securing access to the vault, a demand was 
made for the payment of the tax. This was promptly refused, and a notice 
given of the granting of the injunction. This was disregarded, and the officer 
seized $98,000 in gold, silver and notes. This was placed in charge of the 
State Treasurer, Mr. H. M. Curry. 

The officers were arrested and imprisoned by the United States Circuit 
Court, and the money returned to the bank. The case was reviewed by 
the Supreme Court, and the measures of the Circuit Court were sustained. The 
State, therefore, submitted. In the mean time, the Legislature had prepared 
and passed a resolution, as follows: 

Resolved, by the General Assembly of the State of Ohio, That in respect to the powers of the 
Governments of the several States that compose the American Union, and the powers of the Fed- 
eral Government, this General Assembly do recognize and approve the doctrines asserted by the 
Legislatures of Kentucky and Virginia in their resolutions of November and December, 1798, 
and January, 1800, and do consider their principles have been recognized and adopted by a 
majority of the American people. 

Resolved further, That this General Assembly do assert and will maintain by all legal and 
constitutional means, the rights of States to tax the business and property of any private corpo- 
ration of trade, incorporated by the Congress of the United States, and located to transact its 
corporate business within any State. 

Resolved further. That the bank of the United States is a private corporation of trade, the 
capital and business of which may be legally taxed in any State where they may be found. 

Resolved further. That the General Assembly do protest against the doctrines that the politi- 
cal rights of the separate States that compose the American Union and their powers as sovereign 
States, may be settled and determined in the Supreme Court of the United States, so as to con- 
clude and bind them in cases contrived between individuals, and where they are, no one of them, 
parties direct. 

The bank was thus debarred from the aid of State laws in the collection of 
its dues and in the protection of its rights. An attempt was made to effect a 
change in the Federal constitution, which would take the case out of the 
United States Courts. This, however, proved ineffectual. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. IIS 

The banking system in Ohio has, by reason of State surveillance, not been 
subjected to those whirlwind speculations and questionable failures which have 
marked many Western States, in the establishment of a firm basis upon which 
a banking law could be sustained, with mutual benefit to the institution and the 
people. 

THE CANAL SYSTEM. 

In the first part of 1817, the Legislature considered a resolution relating 
to a canal between Lake Erie and the Ohio River. No action was taken and 
the subject was not again agitated until 1819. Gov. Brown appointed three 
commissioners in 1820, for the purpose of employing an efficient engineer and 
such assistants as he deemed necessary, for the purpose of surveying a practical 
route for this canal. The commissioners were restricted in their actions until 
Congress should accept a proposition in behalf of the State, for a donation and 
sale of the public lands lying upon and near the route of the proposed canal. 
A delay was thus occasioned for two years. 

In 1822, the matter was referred to a committee of the House of Repre- 
sentatives. This committee approved and recommended the employment of the 
engineer. They furthermore added illustrations to prove the feasibility of the 
project. 

James Geddes, a skillful engineer of New York, was in due time appointed 
to the position and instructed to make the necessary examinations and sur- 
veys. 

The surveys were made, and estimates given of the expenses, which docu- 
ments were laid before the Legislature at several sessions. 

In 1825, an act was passed providing for the internal improvement of the 
State by navigable canals. Directly thereafter, the State set vigorously about 
the work of constructing two canals, one leading from the Ohio to Lake Erie, 
by way of the valleys of the Scioto and Muskingum, the other from Cincinnati 
to Dayton. 

The first canal-boat from Cincinnati to Dayton, reached her destination in 
1829, on the 25th of January. This outlet of communication was extended 
to Lake Erie, and was completed in 1845. The largest artificial lake now 
known is on the elevation between the Ohio and the lake, in Mercer County, 
and supplies the St. Mary's feeder of the Miami Canal, about three miles dis- 
tant, eastwardly. This reservoir is about nine miles long, and from two to 
four broad. 

Two walls of earth, from ten to twenty feet high, were formed, on the east 
and west, which united with the elevations north and south, surrounded this 
basin. When the water was admitted, whole farms were submerged, and the 
"neighbors" complained lest this overflow should tempt miasma. So great 
was the excitement, that over one hundred and fifty residents of the county 
united, and with shovels and spades, made a breach in the embankment. 
Many holding prominent positions in the county were engaged in this work. 



114 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

and all laid themselves liable to the State laws, which made the despoiling of 
public works a penitentiary offense. 

The matter was taken up by the courts, but a grand jury could not be 
found in Mercer County to find a bill of indictment. 

The oflBcers who had charge of the work, ignored the law requiring the cut- 
ing and saving of the timber on lands appropriated, for canal reservoirs. ■ The 
trees were ruthlessly girdled, and thousands of acres of valuable timber that 
might have been highly desirable in the building of bridges, etc., were 
destroyed. However, an adjustment was finally effected, and the work was 
prosecuted with the entire approbation of the people, who were convinced that 
convenient transportation was to be desired. 

OHIO LAND TRACTS. 

After the Indians relinquished all claims against the lands of those States 
west of the Alleghanies, as they had been obtained by conquest, the United 
States, as a government, owned the soil. When Ohio was admitted into the 
Union, a stipulation was made that the fee simple to all the lands within its 
boundaries, with the exception of those previously sold or granted, should vest 
in the General Government. At the present writing, but few tracts remain 
that can be called " public lands." In this, as in other States, tracts are des- 
ignated by their pioneer signification or the purpose to which they were origi- 
nally devoted. In Ohio, these tracts are known as : 



1. 


Congress Lands. 


8. 


Symmes' Purchase. 


15. 


Maumee Road. 


2. 


United States Military. 


9. 


Refugee Tract. 


16. 


School Lands. 


3 


Virginia Military. 


10. 


French Grant. 


17. 


College Lands. 


4. 


Western Reserve. 


11, 


Dohrman's Grant. 


18. 


Ministerial Lands. 


5. 


Fire Lands. 


12. 


Zane's Grant. 


19. 


Moravian Lands. 


6. 


Ohio Company's Purchase. 


13. 


Canal Lands. 


20. 


Salt Sections. 


7. 


Donation Tract. 


14. 


Turnpike Lands. 







The lands sold by the direct officers of the Government, under the direc- 
tion of Congress, according to the laws, are known as Congress lands. They 
are properly surveyed, and laid out in townships six miles square, under the 
direction of the Government, and the expense incurred settled by Congress. 
These townships are subdivided into sections, containing 640 acres. One sec- 
tion is reserved, in every township, for educational purposes, to be utilized in 
any manner approved by the State as being the best to aid the cause for which 
they are assigned. 

The Western Reserve will be remembered as the tract originally belonging to 
Connecticut. It lies in the northeast quarter of the State. A half-million acres 
were donated by the old Eastern State, when her claim was in force, to sufferers 
from fire during the Revolutionary war, which created the name, " fire lands." 
Many settled here whose homes were destroyed by the British during the war. 

It will be remembered, that on account of discoveries by subjects of empires, 
in the New World, the " Old World " kings laid claim to different portions 




'^''^ m Co ThOoA" 



<=..<^,^^^^^^^5^^^" 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 117 

of the young continent. At that period, European knowledge of American 
geographical positions and limits was exceedingly meager, which occasioned 
several wars and more discussions. These Old-World sovereigns also assumed 
the authority to sell or present tracts of land to their subjects, in those terri- 
tories they deemed their own. 

King Charles II of England granted to his loyal subjects the colony of 
Connecticut, in 1662, placing with them a charter of right to all lands within 
certain prescribed boundaries. But these " boundaries " frequently conflicted 
with those of others, and sometimes extended to the Pacific Ocean, or " South 
Sea," as it was then termed. Connecticut, by her original charter rights, held 
all lands between the forty -first and forty-second parallels of north latitude, and 
from Providence Plantation on the east, to Pacific Ocean on the west, except- 
ing the New York and Pennsylvania colonies. As late as the establishment of 
the United States as an independent government, those colliding claims fre- 
quently engendered confusion and warm discussion between the nation and 
Connecticut, regarding the original colony claim. This was compromised by 
the national claims being relinquished in regard to the territorial claim in Ohio, 
and Connecticut holding the 3,800,000 acres described as the " Western Reser- 
vation." The Government held the right of jurisdiction. 

In 1796, Congress set aside a certain division of land, to satisfy the claims 
of officers and soldiers of the Revolutionary war. It includes the 2,500,000 
acres between the Greenville treaty line and the Congress and refugee lands, 
and "VII ranges of townships," on the east, and the Scioto River, west. This 
constitutes the " Military Tract." The " Virginia Military Tract " lies between 
the Scioto and Little Miami Rivers, and extends south to the Ohio. 

James I, in his authorized charter to the Virginia colony, in the year 
1609, made rather visionary boundary lines, sweeping over the continent, west 
of the Ohio River, " of the north and south breadth of Virginia." Virginia 
reconciled the matter by relinquishing all her claims northwest of the Ohio 
River, with the exception of a tract for the purpose of donating the same to her 
troops of the Revolution — their claims demanding such a return in some section. 
Unfortunately, this tract was not regularly surveyed, and conflicting " lines " 
have given rise to litigation ever since that stipulation was made. 

The Ohio Company's Purchase has already been described — as has the 
Symmes Purchase. 

The Refugee Tract covers an area of 100,000 acres, extending eastwardly 
from the Scioto River forty-eight miles, in a strip of country four and one-half 
miles broad, north to south. Columbus, the capital of the State, is situated in 
the western portion. This land was donated by Congress to those individuals 
who left the British dominions and rule, during the Revolution, and espoused 
the American cause. 

The French Tract borders on the Ohio River, in the southeastern quarter 
of Scioto County. It includes 24,000 acres, and was ceded to those French. 



118 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

families that lost their claims at Gallipolis, through invalid titles ; 1,200 acres 
were added, after the above grant of 1795. 

Dohrman's Grant includes a section, six miles square, in the southeastern 
portion of Tuscarawas County. It was granted to Arnold Henry Dohrman, a 
Portuguese merchant, as a token of appreciation of the aid and shelter he ren- 
dered American cruisers and vessels of war, during the Revolution. 

The Moravian Lands were originally grants by the old Continental Con- 
gress, in 1787, and confirmed by the act of the Government Congress, in 1796, 
to the Moravian Brethren, of Bethlehem, Penn., in sacred trust, and for the 
use of those Indians who embraced Christianity and civilization, desiring to live 
and settle thereon. These three tracts include 4,000 acres each, and are situ- 
ated in Tuscarawas County. In 1823, the Indians relinquished their rights to 
the 12,000 acres in this county, for 24,000 acres, in a territory designated by 
the United States, together with an annuity of $400. 

Zane's Tracts included a portion of land on the Muskingum, whereon Zanes- 
ville was built ; another at the crossing of the Hocking, on which Lancaster is 
located ; and yet another on the left bank of the Scioto River, opposite Chilli- 
cothe. These grants were made to Ebenezer Zane, by Congress, in 1796, as a 
reward for opening a road from Wheeling, Va., to Maysville, Ky. In 1802, 
Mr. Zane received three additional tracts, one square mile each, m considera- 
tion of being captured and held a prisoner, during the Revolutionary war, 
when a boy, by the Indians. He lived with these people most of his life, secur- 
ing many benefits for the Americans. These tracts are located in Champaign 
County. 

The Maumee Road Lands extend the length of the road, from the Maumee 
River, at Perrysburg, to the western limits of the Western Reserve, a distance 
of forty-six miles — in a strip two miles wide. This includes about 60,000 
acres. These lands were ceded by the Indians, at the treaty of Brownstown, in 
1808. The original intention of Congress was to mark a highway through this 
strip, but no definite action was taken until 1823, whe a the land was ceded to 
the State of Ohio, under an obligation that the State make and sustain the pro- 
jected road, within four years after the transfer. 

The Turnpike Lands extended over 31,360 acres along the western side of 
the Columbus & Sandusky Turnpike, in the eastern parts of Seneca, Craw- 
ford and Marion Counties. They were designed for the transportation of mail 
stages, troops and other United States property, free from toll. The grant was 
made in 1827. 

" The Ohio Canal Lands " comprise about 1,000,000 acres, set aside for the 
purpose of canal construction. 

When Ohio was admitted to the LTnion, a guarantee was given that the State 
should not tax Government lands until they should have been sold for five years. 
That the thirty-sixth part of all territory within the State limits should be de- 
voted to educational purposes, for the general benefit of the population. In 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 119 

order to secure tracts which would prove available, and thus insure returns, 
they were selected in small lots. No. 16 was designated as the sectional portion, 
in each township of Congress lands, the Ohio Company's and Symmes Pur- 
chases, the United States Military Lands, the Connecticut Reserve, and a num- 
ber of quarter townships. These school lands were selected by the Secretary 
of the Treasury. 

The college townships are thirty-six miles square. A section, thirty-six 
miles square, in the center of Jackson County, in the vicinity and containing 
the Scioto Salt Licks, was also reserved by Congress, together with a quarter- 
mile township in Delaware County. This swept over 27,040 acres. In 1824, 
Congress authorized the State to sell these lands. The proceeds were to be 
devoted to literary requirements, such as might be specified by Congress. 

IMPROVEMENTS. 

We have heretofore briefly alluded to the canal system of Ohio, which in 
the beginning caused considerable anxiety to settlers directly in the course of 
its survey. The Legislature passed the " Internal Improvement by Navigable 
Canals " act, in 1825, and the work was immediately inaugurated and hastened. 
The " Ohio Canal " extends from the lake to the Ohio, and the " Miami " con- 
nects Cincinnati with Dayton. The latter was completed to Toledo in 1844, a 
length of 493 miles. Its total cost, including reservoir cutting and feeders, was 
$7,500,000. The Ohio Canal was finished in 1833. 

During the construction of these canals, the curiosities which have attracted 
antiquarians and scientists, in the State of Ohio, were found in various places. 
Relics were discovered that must have belonged to a giant race. Nearly 3,000 
graves were found, of the " mound type." * 

A third canal was begun in 1836, reaching from Walhonding, in Coshocton 
County, to Roscoe, its length being twenty-five miles, involving an expense of 
$610,000. This was completed in 1842. The Hocking Canal, between Car- 
roll, in Fairfield County, and Athens, in Athens County, a distance of fifty- 
six miles, was also cut, about the same time, at a cost of nearly $1,000,000. 

The Muskingum improvements were also being carried forward. Locks and 
dams were requisite for the perfection of navigation in this water-course, from 
Dresden to Marietta, a distance of ninety-one miles. This added an expense 
of $1,630,000 to the call for improvement appropriations. To the Miami Canal 
was added a feeder, known as the Warren County Canal — extending from 
Franklin to Lebanon, which was not completed, although over $250,000 were 
expended in its construction as far as it went. 

Railway transportation was a subject which engrossed the attention of those in- 
terested in State perpetuity and general prosperity. About the year 1831, the Leg- 
islature received applications for railway charters. The first one granted was the 
" Cincinnati, Sandusky & Cleveland Railroad," on June 5, 1832. The " Sandusky, 
Mansfield & Newark Railroad " obtained a charter in 1836, March 11, followed, 



120 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

three days thereafter, by the " Cleveland, Columbus & Cincinnati Railroad." 
The " Little Miami" was begun in 1837. Notwithstanding these chartered 
rights, but 129 miles were completed in 1847, and in operation. In 1878, 
the mileage had increased to 6,264. The valuation of the operating roads 
was estimated the same year, at $76,113,500. Their taxation summed up 
$1,128,116. 

No State in the Union has been more zealous in her educational interests than 
Ohio. Public lands were generously granted by Congress, and the State added 
her affirmation. However, no practical and effectual system was adopted until 
1825. 

An act was then passed to tax all real property one-half mill per dollar for 
the establishment of schools in each township, and the support of the same. 
An act of 1829, increased the tax to three-fourths of a mill. Trustees of 
townships were instructed to make divisions and locate convenient school dis- 
tricts. Householders were to elect three school directors, a clerk and treasurer 
annually. Privileges and restrictions were enjoined in all cases. The house- 
holders were allowed their discretion, governed accordingly, in imposing taxes 
for the erection of school buildings. The Courts of the Common Pleas 
appointed a committee to examine the qualifications of those individuals mak- 
ing application for the position of teachers. The school extended equal privi- 
leges to all white children. Those of colored parentage were excluded, and no 
tax was levied for school purposes upon colored parents. An amendment has 
admitted the children of colored parents. The system has continued the same, 
with a few amendments. A State Commissioner of Common Schools is elected 
every third year, who has general charge of the interests of public schools. A 
State Board of Examiners, composed of three persons, appointed by the State 
Commissioner, for two years' term, is authorized to issue life certificates of high 
qualifications, to such teachers as it may find to possess the requisite scholarship, 
character, experience and ability. These certificates, signed by the Commis- 
sioner, are valid throughout the State. A County Board of Examiners, of 
three members, is formed in each county. Boards of education, for cities, are 
made up of one or two members from each ward. City Boards of Examiners 
are also appointed. Section 4 of the law of 1873, was amended in 1877, which 
made the territory annexed to an incorporated village,' at the option of the 
voters of the village and tributary section, whether it be included with the vil- 
lage as one school district, or left as two school districts. Section 56 of the law was 
amended, in its bearing upon cities of 30,000 to 75,000 inhabitants, by limiting 
to five mills on the dollar of taxable property, the levies in such cities for con- 
tinuing schools, for purchasing sites for schoolhouses, for leasing, purchasing, 
erecting and furnishing school houses, and for all school expenses. The public 
funds are subject to the discretion of voters, and boards are authorized, under 
instructions, to make the best use of such funds. Taxation is subject to the 
discretion of the State, certain limits being prescribed. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 121 

In 1878, the number of youth of the school age numbered 1,041,963. 
On the rolls, 740,194 names were recorded. In the year 1878, 23,391 teach- 
ers were employed, receiving $4,956,514.46 for their services. 

Ohio not only sustains her public schools on a broad, liberal basis, but she 
encourages educational pursuits in superior universities and colleges throughout 
the State. These institutions are not aided by State funds, but are sustained by 
society influence, added to their self-supporting resources. Ohio also possesses 
a large number of normal schools, academies, seminaries and business colleges. 
These are not entitled to the privileges of the school fund. Scientific, profes- 
sional, theological, legal and medical instructions are in no manner limited in 
their facilities. Industrial and reformatory schools are especially thorough. 
Institutions for the instruction of the deaf and dumb, and blind, and feeble- 
minded, are under the best discipline. 

We may add, many female seminaries have been established which are entirely 
sustained by other than State aid. Ohio has, from its inception, been solid and 
vigorous in whatever tended toward improvement and enlightenment. 

We have also referred to the banking system of this State, as being first 
established on a basis through a contest between the State and the General 
Government. Authorities differ regarding the exact date and location of the 
very first house established in the State for the purpose of transacting banking 
business. It is highly probable that Marietta is more directly associated with 
that event than any other town. There are at present over one hundred and 
sixty-seven national banks, with an aggregate capital of $27,794,468. It also 
has eighteen banks of deposit, incorporated under the State banking laws of 
1845, representing an aggregate capital of $539,904. Twenty-three savings 
banks, incorporated under the State act of 1875, with an aggregate capital of 
$1,277,500. Of private banks it has 192, with an aggregate capital of 
$5,663,898. The State represents in her banking capital over $36,275,770. 
The First National of Cincinnati has a capital stock of over $1,000,000. 
The others fall below that sum, their capital diminishing from 10,000 shares of 
$100 each. The valuation for taxation is $850,000 — Merchant's National of 
Cincinnati — to the valuation of a tax of $5,000 on the First National of 
Beverly. 

BOUNDARY LINES. 

We must not omit the subject of the State boundaries. Ohio was especially 
the field for most animated discussions, relative not only to State limits but 
county lines and township rights. In 1817, a severe controversy arose, which 
was settled only after violent demonstrations and Government interference. 

In primitive times, the geographical position, extent and surface diversities 
were but meagerly comprehended. In truth, it may be asserted they could not 
have been more at variance with actual facts had they been laid out ^' hap- 
hazard." The ordinance of 1787 represented Lake Michigan far north of its 
real position, and even as late as 1812, its size and location had not been 



122 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

definitely ascertained. During that year, Amos Spafford addressed a clear, com- 
prehensive letter to the Governor of Ohio, on this subject, relative to the 
boundary lines of Ohio. Several lines of survey were laid out as the first 
course, but either Michigan or Ohio expressed disapproval in every case. This 
culminated in 1835, when the party beginning a "permanent" survey began 
at the northwest corner of the State, and was attacked by a force of Michigan 
settlers who sent them away badly routed and beaten. No effort was made to 
return to the work until the State and various parties had weighed the subject, 
and finally the interposition of the Government became necessary. 

A settlement resulted in Ohio being bounded on the north by Lake Erie 
and the State of Michigan, on the east by Pennsylvania and West Virginia, on 
the south by the Ohio River, and on the west by Indiana. 

It is situated between the 38° 25' and 42° north latitude, and 84° 50' 
west longitude from Greenwich, or 3° 30' and 7° 50' west from Washington. 
From north to south, it extends over 210 miles, and from east to west 220 
miles — comprising 39,964 square miles. 

The State is generally higher than the Ohio River. In the southern 
counties, the surface is greatly diversified by the inequalities produced by the 
excavating power of the Ohio River and its tributaries. The greater portion 
of the State was originally covered with timber, although in the central and 
northwestern sections some prairies were found. The crest or watershed 
between the waters of Lake Erie and those of the Ohio is less elevated than 
in New York or Pennsylvania. Sailing upon the Ohio the country appears 
to be mountainous, bluffs rising to the height of two hundred and fifty to six 
hundred feet above the valleys. Ascending the tributaries of the Ohio, these 
precipitous hills gradually lessen until they are resolved into gentle undulations, 
and toward the sources of the river the land is low and marshy. 

Although Ohio has no inland lakes of importance, she possesses a favorable 
river system, which, aided by her canals, gives her prestige of a convenient 
water transportation. The lake on her northern boundary, and the Ohio 
River on her southern limit, afibrd most convenient outlets by water to impor- 
tant points. Her means of communication and transportation are superior in 
every respect, and are constantly being increased. 

ORGANIZATION OF COUNTIES AND EARLY EVENTS. 

Adams County was named in honor of John Adams, second President of 
the United States. Gov. St. Clair proclaimed it a county on July 10, 1797. 
The Virginia Military Tract included this section, and the first settlement made 
within its boundaries was in this county in 1790-91, between the Scioto and Little 
Miami, at Manchester, by Gen. Nathaniel Massie. In this town was held the 
first court of the county. 

West Union, the present county seat, was laid out by the Hon. Thomas 
Kirker. It occupies the summit of a high ridge. The surface of this county is 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 123 

hilly and broken, and the eastern part is not fertile. It produces corn, wheat, oats 
and pork. Beds of iron are found in the eastern part. Its hills are composed of 
aluminous shale. The barren hills afford a range for cattle and hogs. A sort 
of vagrant class derive a support by collecting stones, hoop-poles and tanners' 
barks from these hills. 

Ashland County is one of the finest agricultural sections. It was formed 
February 26, 1846. Wheat comprises its principal crop, although large quan- 
tities of oats, corn, potatoes, grass and fruit are raised. Ashland is its county 
seat, and was laid out by William Montgomery in 1816. It was called Union- 
town for several years. Daniel Carter raised the first cabin within the county 
limits in 1811. 

Auglaize County was formed in February, 1848, from Allen and Mercer 
Counties. Wapakoneta is its county seat. 

Allen County was formed from the Indian Territory April 1, 1820. Lima 
is its county seat. 

Ashtabula County was formed June 7, 1807, and was organized January 
22, 1811. The surface is level near the lake, while the remainder is undulat- 
ing. The soil is mostly clay. Very little wheat is raised, but considerable 
corn and oats. Butter and cheese are the main marketable productions. This 
was the first county settled on the Western Reserve, and also the earliest in 
Northern Ohio. On the 4th of July, 1796, the first surveying party arrived 
at the mouth of Conneaut Creek. Judge James Kingsbury was the first who 
■wintered there with his family. He was the first man to use a sickle in the 
first wheat-field in the Western Reserve. Their child was the first born on the 
Western Reserve, and was starved to death. The first regular settlement was 
at Harpersfield, in 1798. 

Jefferson is the county seat. Ashtabula is pleasantly situated on the river, 
with a fine harbor two and a half miles from the village. 

The first church on the Western Reserve was founded at Austinburg in 
1801. 

Athens County was formed from Washington March 1, 1805. It produces 
wheat, corn, oats and tobacco. The surface is hilly and broken, with rich bot- 
tom lands between. Coal, iron ore and salt add materially to its commercial 
value. It has the advantage of the canal, as well as other transportation. 
Athens, its county seat, is situated on the Hocking River. The Ohio Uni- 
versity, the first college founded in the State, is located 'here. We have 
mentioned the ancient mounds found in this county, heretofore. Yellow pine is 
abundant in the lower part of the Hocking Valley. 

Brown County was formed March 1, 1818, from Adams and Clermont. It 
produces wheat, corn, rye, oats and pork. The southern part is prolific in 
grain, while the northern is adapted to grazing purposes. The surface is undu- 
lating, with the exception of the Ohio River hills. Over this county Tecumseb 
once held sway 



124 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

Georgetown is the county seat, and was laid out in 1819. Ripley is the larg- 
est business town in the county. 

Belmont County was announced by Gov. St. Clair September 1, 1801. It 
produces large crops of wheat, oats, corn and tobacco, an annual crop of over 
2,000,000 pounds of the latter being the average. It also trades largely in 
wool and coal. It is a picturesque tract of country, and was one of the 
pioneers in the early settled portions. 

In 1790, Fort Dillie was erected on the west side of the Ohio. Baker's 
Fort was a mile below the mouth of the Captina. Many desperate Indian bat- 
tles were fought within the limits of this county, and the famous Indian scout, 
Lewis Wetzel, roamed over the region. 

St. Clairsville is the county seat, situated on the elevation of land, in a fer- 
tile district. Capt. Kirkwood and Elizabeth Zane, of historic fame, were early 
pioneers here. 

Butler County was formed in 1803, from Hamilton. It is within the blue 
limestone formation, and one of the most fertile sections of Ohio. It produces 
more corn than any other county in the State, besides fine crops of wheat, 
oats and large quantities of pork. Hamilton, the county seat, is situated on the 
Great Miami. Its hydraulic works furnish superior water-power. Rossville, 
on the opposite side of the Miami, is a large mercantile town. 

St. Clair passed through this county on his Indian campaigns in 1791, 
building Fort Hamilton on the Miami. 

Champaign County was formed March 1, 1805, from Greene and Franklin. 
It is drained by Mad River and its tributaries, which furnishes extensive mill 
privileges. Nearly a half is undulating, a quarter rolling, a fifth hilly, and 
5 per cent wet prairie. The soil is fertile, and produces wheat, corn, oats, 
barley, hay, while beef and wool add to the general wealth. Urbana, the 
county seat, was laid out in 1805, by Col. William Ward. He was chief owner 
of the land and donated many lots to the county, under condition that their 
proceeds be devoted to public improvements. Joseph Vance and George 
Fithian were the first settlers. The Methodists built the first church in 1807. 
The main army of Hull concentrated at this point before setting out for Detroit. 
Many Indian councils were called here, and Tecumseh was located for a time 
near Deer Creek. 

Carroll County was formed from Columbiana in 1832-33. It produces 
wheat, oats and corn, and valuable coal and iron. The surface is hilly. Car- 
rollton is its county seat. At Harlem is a celebrated chalybeate spri-ng. 

Clark County was formed March 1, 1817, from Champaign, Madison and 
Greene. Its second settlement was at Kreb's Station, in 1796. It is highly culti- 
vated, well watered and very fertile. The Mad River, Buck and Beaver Creeks 
furnish abundant water-power. It produces principally wheat, corn and oats. 

Tecumseh, the old Indian warrior, was born at the ancient Indian vil- 
lage of Piqua, on the Mad River, on the site of New Boston. Piqua was 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 125 

destroyed by Gen. George Rogers Clarke. Skeletons, beads, gun barrels, 
tomahawks, kettles, etc., have been found in the vicinity. 

Springfield, the county seat, is situated on the National road. It has con- 
venient transportation facilities, is handsomely laid out, and is noted for its 
cultured citizens. It is near Mad River, and Buck Creek runs through it. 

Clinton County was formed in 1810. It produces chiefly wheat, oats, 
wool and pork. Its surface is undulating, in some parts hilly, and the soil fer- 
tile. Its streams furnish desirable water-power. The county was settled in 
1798—99. Wilmington is the county seat, and was laid out in 1810. The first 
log house was built by William Hobsin. 

Clermont County was the eighth formed in the Northwest Territory, by 
proclamation of Gov. St. Clair, December 9, 1800. The soil is exceedingly 
rich, and the surface is broken and, near the Ohio, hilly. Wheat, corn, oats, 
hay, potatoes, tobacco, barley, buckwheat and rye form the main crops, while 
beef, pork, flour, hay and whisky constitute its main exports. Its streams 
furnish good water-power. Batavia, its county seat, is situated on the Little 
Miami River, and was laid out in 1820, by George Ely. 

Columbiana County was formed March 25, 1803, from Jeff"erson and Wash- 
ington. Its soil is very fertile, producing wheat, corn, oats and potatoes. It 
is wealthy in mineral deposits, coal, iron ore, lime and freestone being abun- 
dant. Its water-lime stone is of superior quality. Salt water is found on Yel- 
low and Beaver Creeks. This is also the great wool-producing county of 
the State. It was settled in 1797. New Lisbon, its county seat, is well 
built. 

The first paper-mill in Ohio was erected in this county, on Little Beaver 
Creek, by John Coulter and John Bever. 

Coshocton County was organized April 1, 1811. Its principal products are 
wheat, corn, oats and wool. Hills and valleys alternate along the Muskingum 
River. Abrupt changes are strongly marked — a rich alluvum being overhung 
by a red bush hill, while directly beside it may be seen the poplar and sugar 
tree. Coal and iron ore add to its general importance, while salt wells have 
proven remunerative. 

Coshocton, the county seat, is built on four wide, natural terraces, at the 
junction of the Tuscarawas with the Walhonding. 

Cuyahoga County was formed June 7, 1807, from Geauga. Near the lake, 
the soil is sandy, while a clayey loam may be found elsewhere. The valleys 
near the streams produce Avheat, barley and hay. Fruit is successfully grown, 
and cheese, butter, beef and wool are largely exported. Bog iron is found in 
the western part, and fine grindstone quarries are in operation. The sandstone 
from these quarries is now an important article of commerce. As early as 
1775, there was a French settlement within the boundaries of Cuyahoga. In 
1786, a Moravian missionary came to the present site of Cleveland, and set- 
tled in an abandoned village of the Ottawas. Circumstances prevented a 



126 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

permanent settlement, and the British tacitly took possession,, even remaining 
upon the lake shores after the Revolution. 

The first permanent settlement was made at Cleveland in 1796. Mr. Job 
V. Stiles and family and Edward Paine passed the first winter there, their log 
cabin standing where the Commercial Bank is now located. Rodolphus 
Edwards and Nathaniel Doane settled here. The town was, in 1813, a depot 
of supplies and a rendezvous for troops engaged in the war. 

Cleveland, the county seat, is situated at the northern termination of the 
Ohio Canal, on the lake shore. In 1814, it was incorporated as a village, and 
in 1836, as a city. Its elevation is about a hundred feet above the lake. It 
is a lovely city, and has one of the best harbors on Lake Erie. 

Ohio City is another important town, nearly opposite Cleveland, on the 
Cuyahoga. It was incorporated in 1836. 

Crawford County was formed April 1, 1820, from the old Indian territory. 
The entire county is adapted to grazing. The soil is generally composed of 
rich vegetable loam, and in some parts the subsoil is clay mixed with lime. 
Rich beds of shell marl have been discovered. It produces wheat, corn, oats, 
clover, timothy seed, wool and cattle. Fine limestone quarries are worked with 
success. 

Bucyrus is the county seat, and was laid out February 11, 1822, by Samuel 
Norton and James Kilbourn, original owners of the land. The first settler in 
the town proper was Samuel Norton. A gas well has been dug in Bucyrus, 
on the land of R. W. Musgrove, which burns in a brilliant light Avhen con- 
ducted to the surface by means of pipes. Crawford's Sulphur Springs are 
located nine miles from Bucyrus. The water is impregnated with sulphuretted 
hydrogen. It deposits a reddish-purple sediment. In its nature the water is a 
cathartic, and is diuretic and diaphoretic in its effects. A few rods away is a 
burning spring. The Annapolis Sulphur Spring is clear and has gained consid- 
erable fame by its curative qualities. Opposite Bucyrus is a chalybeate spring 
of tonic qualities. 

There are some beds of peat in the county, the most extensive one being a 
wet prairie called Cranberry Marsh, containing nearly 2,000 acres. 

Darke County was organized in March, 1817, from Miami County. It is 
abundantly timbered with poplar, walnut, blue ash, hickory, beech and sugar 
maple. It yields superior wheat, and is well adapted to grazing. In this 
county occurred the lamentable defeat of St. Clair, and the treaty of Greenville. 

Greenville is the county seat, and was laid out August 10, 1808, by Robert 
Gray and John Dover. In December, 1793, Wayne built Fort Greenville on 
this spot, which covered about the same extent as the present town. 

Delaware County was formed February 10, 1808, from Franklin. It pro- 
duces mainly wheat, corn, oats, pork and wool. 

Delaware is the county seat, and was laid out in the spring of 1808, by 
Moses Byxbe. The Delaware Spring in the village is of the white sulphur or 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 127 

<3old hydro-sulphurous nature, valuable for medicinal qualities in cases of bilious 
derangements, dyspepsia, scrofulous affections, etc. 

Defiance County was inaugurated March 4, 1845, from Williams, Henry 
and Paulding. The Maumee, Tiffin and Auglaize flow through it. The Black 
Swamp covers much of its area. 

Defiance, the county seat, is situated on the Maumee. It was laid out in 
1822, by B. Level and H. Phillips. A large Indian settlement occupied its 
gite in very early times. Wayne arrived here August 8, 1794, captured the 
place, finding about one thousand acres of corn, peach and apple orchards, and 
vegetables of all varieties. Here he built Fort Defiance. 

Erie County was formed in 1838, from Huron and Sandusky. The soil is 
alluvial, and yields large crops of wheat, corn, oats and potatoes. It possesses 
inexhaustable quarries of limestone and freestone. Immense quantities of bog 
iron are also found. The Erie tribe is said to have once occupied the land, and 
-were extirpated by the Iroquois. As early as 1754, the French had built set- 
tlements. In 1764, the county was besieged. Pontiac came here with warlike 
•demonstrations, but made peace with the whites. Erie was included in the 
"fire lands" of the Western Reserve. 

Sandusky City is the county seat, and was laid out in 1817, then termed 
Portland. At that time it contained two log huts. The town is finely situated, 
and is based upon an inexhaustible quarry of the finest limestone. In the 
"patriot war" with the Canadians, this city was the rendezvous for the 
"patriots." 

Franklin County was formed April 30, 1803, from Ross. It contains 
much low wet land, and is better adapted to grazing than agricultural purposes. 
It was in early times occupied by the Wyandot Indians. Its first white set- 
tlement was made in 1797, by Robert Armstrong and others. Franklinton 
was laid out in 1797, by Lucas Sullivan. Worthington was settled by the 
Scioto Company in 1801. Col. Kilbourn, who was interested in the work, 
constructed the first map of Ohio during his explorations, by uniting sectional 
diagrams. 

Columbus, the capital of the State of Ohio, is also the county seat of 
Franklin County. After the organization of a State government, the capital 
was "portable" until 1816. In 1810, the sessions were held at Chillicothe, 
in 1811 and 1812 at Zanesville, removing again to Chillicothe, and, in 1816, 
Iseing located at Columbus. The town was laid out during the spring of 1812. 
A penitentiary was erected in 1813, and the State House was built in 1814. 
It was incorporated as "the borough of Columbus," February 10, 1816. The 
city charter was granted March 3, 1834. 

It is beautifully located on the east bank of the Scioto. The Columbus 
Institute is a classical institution. A female and a theological seminary also 
add to its educational advantages. The Ohio Lunatic Asylum is also located 
here — also the Ohio Institution for the Education of the Blind. East of the 



128 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

State House is the Ohio Institution for the Education of the Deaf and 
Dumb. 

Fairfield County was formed by proclamation of Gov. St. Clair, December 
9, 1800. 

The soil is varied, being in some parts exceedingly rich, and in others very 
sterile. It produces principally wheat, corn, rye, oats, buckwheat, barley, 
potatoes and tobacco. 

Lancaster is the county seat, laid out by Ebenezer Zane in 1800. In 1797, 
he opened the road known as "Zane's Trace," from Wheeling to Limestone — 
now Maysville. It passed through Lancaster, at a fording about three hundred 
yards below the present turnpike bridge. Near the turn stands an imposing 
eminance called " Standing Stone." Parties of pleasure frequently visit this spot. 

Fayette County was formed from Ross and Highland in 1810. Wheat, 
corn, cattle, hogs, sheep and wool comprise its main productions. " The bar- 
rens" are situated in the northeastern part. This tract is covered by a growth 
of grass. 

Washington is its county seat, laid out in 1810. 

Col. Stewart was active in the interests of this section, and his memory is 
sacredly revered. Jesse Milliken was prominent in public affairs. 

Fulton County, bordering on Michigan, was organized in 1850. It is 
drained by Bean Creek and other small affluents of the Maumee River. The 
surface is nearly level, and a large part of it is covered with forests of ash, 
beech, elm, hickory, white oak, black walnut, etc., furnishing excellent timber. 
The soil is fertile. Wheat, corn, oats and hay are the staple products. Wau- 
seon is the county seat. 

Guernsey County was organized in March, 1810. Wool is a staple prod- 
uct, together with beef, horses and swine. It produces wheat, corn and oats. 

Cambridge is the county seat and was laid out in June, 1806. Mr. 
Graham was the first settler on the site of the town, and his was the only 
dwelling between Lancaster and Wheeling. 

The first cannel coal found in the county was discovered near Mill's Creek. 

Greene County was formed May 1, 1803, from Hamilton and Ross. It 
produces wheat, corn, rye, grass-seed, oats, barley, sheep and swine. The 
streams furnish good water-power. There are five limestone quarries, and a 
marble quarry of variegated colors. The Shawnee town was on the Little 
Miami, and was visited by Capt. Thomas Bullit in 1773. When Daniel Boone 
was captured in 1778, he was brought to this town, and escaped the following 
year. Gen. Clarke invaded this county and the Indians reduced the town to ashes. 

Xenia, the county seat, was laid off in the forest in 1803, by Joseph C. 
Vance. The first cabin was erected in April, 1804, by John Marshall. The 
Rev. James Fowler built the first hewed-log cabin. David A. Sanders built 
the first frame house. Nine miles north of the town, on the Little Miami 
River, are the Yellow Springs, which are impregnated with sulphur. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 129 

Greauga County was formed in 1805 from Trumbull. It exports sheep, 
€attle, butter and cheese. It is situated at the head of Chargrine, Cuyahoga and 
a part of Grand Rivers, on high ground, and is subjected to snowstorms more 
frequently than any other part of the Reserve. Its first settlement was made 
in 1798, at Burton. Chardon is fourteen miles from Lake Erie, and is 600 
feet above it. It was laid out as the county seat in 1808. 

Gallia County was formed April 30, 1803, from Washington. Its princi- 
pal crops are wheat, corn, oats and beans. The surface is generally broken. 
Its first settlement was made in 1791, by a French colony, at Gallipolis. This 
colony was sent out under the auspices of the Scioto Company. This town is 
now the county seat. 

Hamilton County was the second established in the Northwestern Territory 
by proclamation of Gov. St. Clair, January 2, 1790. Its surface is gen- 
erally rolling. It produces the ordinary farm products, and a great variety 
of fruits and vegetables for the Cincinnati market. Vineyards thrive well 
within its limits, and the manufacture of wine is carried on to a considerable 
extent. 

This county was the second settled in Ohio, and the first within the Symmes 
purchase. Settlers arrived at the spot now occupied by Cincinnati, and three 
or four log cabins were erected. Gen. Arthur St. Clair arrived here in Janu- 
ary, 1790. The army of Wayne encamped here later, at Fort Washington. 
Mr. Maxwell established in 1793 the Sentinel of the Northwestern Territory^ 
the first newspaper printed north of the Ohio River. In 1796, Edward Free- 
man became its proprietor, and changed the name to Freeman s Journal. 
January 11, 1794, two keel-boats sailed from Cincinnati to Pittsburgh, making 
regular trips every four weeks. In 1801, the first sea vessel built at Mari- 
etta came down the Ohio. 

Cincinnati, the county seat, was incorporated January 2, 1802. It was char- 
tered as a city in 1819. The city is beautifully laid out and delightfully situ- 
ated. Its public buildings are elegant and substantial, including the court 
house and many literary and charitable institutions. 

The Cincinnati College was founded in 1819. It stands in the center of 
the city. . It is built in Grecian-Doric style, with pilaster fronts and facade of 
Dayton marble. Woodward College is also popular. 

The Catholics have founded the St. Xavier's College. Lane Seminary, a 
theological institution, is at Walnut Hills, two miles from the center of the city. 
It has over 10,000 volumes in its libraries. No charge is made for tuition. 
Rooms are provided and furnished at $5 per year, and board ranges from 62| 
cents to 90 cents a week. The Cincinnati Law; School is connected with Cin- 
cinnati Collecre. The Mechanics' Institute was chartered in 1828, and is in all 
respects well supplied with apparatus. A college for teachers was established in 
1831, its object being to perfect those contemplating entering that profession in 
their studies and system. 



130 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

The Cincinnati Orphan Asylum is an elegant building, and has a library 
and well-organized school attached. The Catholics of the city have one male 
and female orphan asylum. The Commercial Hospital and Lunatic Asylum of 
Ohio was incorporated in 1821. 

Cincinnati is a large manufacturing city, and possesses fine water-power 
facilities. It communicates with the world by means of its canal, river, turnpikes, 
and railways. North Bend is another prominent town in this county, having 
been the residence of Gen. William H. Harrison, and the site of his burial 
place. The town was of considerable importance in the early settlement of the 
State. About thirty yards from Harrison's tomb is the grave of Judge 
Symmes. 

Hancock County was formed April 1, 1820. It produces wheat, oats, corn, 
pork and maple sugar. The surface is level and its soil is fertile. Blanchard's 
Fork waters the central and southern part of the county. Findlay, the county 
seat, was laid out by ex-Gov. Joseph Vance and Elnathan Corry, in 1821. It 
was relaid in 1829. William Vance settled there in the fall of 1821. At the 
south end of the town, are two gas wells. In the eastern part, is a mineral 
spring, and west of the bridge, is a chalybeate spring. 

Hardin County was formed April 1, 1820, from the old Indian Territory. 
It produces, principally, wheat, corn and swine. A portion of the surface is 
level, and the remainder undulating. Fort McArthur was built on the Scioto 
River, but proved a weak stockade. Kenton is the county seat, situated on the 
Scioto River. 

Harrison County was formed from Jefferson and Tuscarawas January 1, 
1814. The surface is hilly, abounding in coal and limestone. Its soil is clayey. 
It is one of the important wool-growing counties in Ohio. It produces large 
quantities of wheat, corn, oats and hay, besides a considerable number of horses, 
cattle and swine. 

In April, 1799, Alexander Henderson and family settled in this county, and 
at the same time, Daniel Peterson and his family resided at the forks of Short 
Creek. The early settlers were much annoyed by Indians and wild beasts. 
Cadiz is the county seat, and was laid out in 1803 and 1804, by Messrs. Briggs 
and Beatty. 

Henry County was formed from the old Indian Territory, April 1, 1820. 
Indian corn, oats, potatoes, and maple sugar constitute the main products. 
The county is well supplied with running streams, and the soil is unusually rich. 

The greater portion of this county is covered by the " Black Swamp." 
Throughout this swamp are ridges of limestone, covered with black walnut, red 
elm, butternut and maple. The soil is superior for grain. Fruit thrives and 
all varieties of vegetables are produced in large quantities. Simon Girty, noto- 
rious for his wicked career, resided in this county. Girty led the attack on 
Fort Henry, in September, 1777. He demanded the surrender of the fort,, 
and menaced its inmates with an Indian massacre, in case of refusal. The 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 131 

action began, but the fort gained the victory. He led a ferocious band of Indi- 
ans, and committed the most fiendish atrocities. 

Napoleon, the county seat, is situated on the Maumee River. 

Highland County was formed in May, 1805, from Ross, Adams and Cler- 
mont. It is a wealthy, productive county. Its wheat commands a high mar- 
ket price. The crops consist of wheat, corn, oats, maple sugar, wool, swine 
and cattle. Its first settlement began in 1801, at New Market, by Oliver Ross, 
Robert Keeston, George W. Barrere, Bernard Weyer and others. Simon Ken- 
ton made a trace through this county in early times. Hillsboro is the 
county seat, and was laid out in 1807, by David Hays, on the land of Benja- 
min Ellicott. It is situated on the dividing ridge, between the Miami and Sci- 
oto. The Hillsboro Academy was founded in 1827. 

Hocking County was formed March 1, 1818, from Ross, Athens and Fair- 
field. Its principal products are corn, wheat, tobacco and maple sugar. Its 
surface is broken and hilly, but is level and fertile beside the streams. 

The Wyandots once occupied this tract, and built a large town herein. In 
1798, a few white families ventured to settle. Logan is its county seat, and is 
situated on the Hocking River. 

Holmes County was formed from Coshocton, Tuscarawas and Wayne, Janu- 
ary 20, 1824. It produces wheat, corn, oats, potatoes, maple sugar, swine, 
sheep and cattle. The southwestern portion is broken. Thomas Butler was 
the first settler, in 1810. Millersburg is the county seat, and was laid out in 
1830. 

Huron County was organized in 1815. It produces hay, wheat, corn, oats, 
barley, buckwheat, flaxseed, potatoes, butter, cheese, wool and swine. Nor- 
walk is the county seat. 

Jackson County was organized March, 1816. The country is rich in min- 
erals and abounds in coal and iron ore. The exports are cattle, wool, swine, 
horses, lumber, millstones, tobacco and iron. Jackson, the county seat, was 
laid out in 1817. The old Scioto salt-works were among the first worked in 
Ohio by the whites. Prior to this period, the Indians came some distance to 
this section to make salt. When Daniel Boone was a prisoner, he spent some 
time at these works. 

Jeiferson County was proclaimed by Gov. St. Clair July 29, 1797, and 
was the fifth county established in Ohio. It is one of the most important 
manufacturing counties in the State. Its resources in coal are also extended. 
The surface is hilly and the soil fertile, producing wheat, corn and oats. The 
old "Mingo" town was on the present farms of Jeremiah Hallock and Mr^ 
Daniel Potter. The troops of Col. Williamson rendezvoused at this point, 
when they set out in their cruel Moravian campaign, and also the troops of 
Col. Crawford, when they started on the campaign against the Sandusky 
Indians. Here Logan, the powerful and manly chief of the Mingo nation, 
once resided. He took no active part in the old French war, which closed in 



132 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

1760, except that of a peacemaker. He was a stanch friend of the whites 
until the abominable and unprovoked murder of his father, brother and sister, 
which occurred in 1774, near the Yellow Creek. He then raised the battle 
cry and sought revenge. 

However, Logan was remarkably magnanimous toward prisoners who fell 
into his hands. The year 1793 was the last spent in Indian warfare in Jeffer- 
son County. 

Fort Steuben was erected on the present site of Steuben ville, the county seat, 
in 1789. It was constructed of block-houses, with palisade fences, and was dis- 
mantled during Wayne's campaign. Bezaleel Wells and Hon. James Ross laid 
the town out in 1798. It was incorporated February 14, 1805. It is situated 
upon an elevated plain. In 1814, Messrs. Wells and Dickerson built a woolen 
manufactory, and introduced merino sheep to the county. 

Knox County was formed March 1, 1808, from Fairfield. It is drained by 
the Vernon River. It produces wheat, corn, oats, tobacco, maple sugar, pota- 
toes and wool. Mount Vernon was laid out in 1805. The early settlers found 
two wells on the Vernon River, built of hammered stone, neatly laid, and near 
by was a salt-lick. Their direct origin remains a mystery. Gilman Bryant, 
in 1807, opened the first store in Mount Vernon. The court house was built 
in 1810. The Indians came to Mount Vernon in large numbers for the pur- 
pose of trading in furs and cranberries. Each Saturday, the settlers worked 
on the streets, extracting stumps and improving the highway. The first settler 
north of the place was N. M. Young, who built his cabin in 1803. Mount 
Vernon is now the county seat, beautifully situated on Vernon River. Kenyon 
College is located at Gambler. It is richly endowed with 8,000 acres, and is 
valued at $100,000. This institution was established under the auspices of 
Bishop Chase, in July, 1826, in the center of a 4,000-acre tract belonging to 
Kenyon College. It was chartered as a theological seminary. 

Lucas County is of comparatively recent origin. A large portion is covered 
by the " Black Swamp." It produces corn, wheat, potatoes and oats. This 
county is situated in the Maumee Valley, which was the great arena of histori- 
cal events. The frightful battle of Wayne's campaign, where the Indians found 
the British to be traitors, was fought near Fort Miami, in this county. Maumee 
City, once the county seat, was laid out in 1817, as Maumee, by Maj. Wm. Oliver 
and others. It is situated on the Maumee, at the head of navigation. The 
surface is 100 feet above the water level. This town, with Perrysburg, its neighbor, 
is exceedingly picturesque, and was in early times frequented by the Indians. 
The French had a trading station at this point, in 1680, and in 1794, the Brit- 
ish Fort — Miami — was built. Toledo is on the left bank of the Maumee, and 
covers the site of a stockade fort, known as Fort Industry, erected in 1800. 
An Indian treaty was held here July 4, 1805, by which the Indians relinquished 
all rights to the " fire lands." In 1832, Capt. Samuel Allen gave an impetus 
to the place, and Maj. Stickney also became interested in its advancement. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 133 

Speculation in lots began in 1834. The Wabash & Erie Canal interest arose in 
1836. Mr. Mason and Edward Bissel added their energies to assist the growth 
of the town. It was incorporated as a city in 1836. It was the center of the 
military operations in the " Ohio and Michigan war," known as the "boundary 
conflict." 

The Ordinance of 1787 provided for the division of the Northwestern Terri- 
tory into three or five States. The three southern were to be divided from the 
two northern by a line drawn east and west through the southern point of Lake 
Michigan, extending eastward to the Territorial line in Lake Erie. The consti- 
tution of Ohio adds a provision that if the line should not go so far north as the 
north cape of Maumee Bay, then the northern boundary of Ohio should be a 
line drawn from the southerly part of Lake Michigan to the north cape of the 
Maumee Bay. 

The line of the ordinance was impossible, according to its instructions and 
the geography of the country. 

When Michigan became a Territory, the people living between the " Fulton " 
and '• Harris " lines found it more to their wishes to be attached to Michigan. 
They occupied disputed ground, and were thus beyond the limits of absolute 
law. In 1835, the subject was greatly agitated, and J. Q. Adams made a warm 
speech before Congress against the Ohio claim. The Legislature of Ohio dis- 
cussed the matter, and an act was passed to attach the disputed section to Ohio, 
according to the constitutional decree. An active campaign opened between 
Michigan and Ohio. Gov. Lucas came out with the Ohio troops, in the spring 
of 1835, and Gov. Mason, of Michigan, followed the example. He marched 
into Toledo, robbed melon-patches and chicken-houses, crushed in the front 
door of Maj. Stickney's house, and carried him away prisoner of war. Embas- 
sadors Avere sent from Washington to negotiate matters — Richard Rush, of Penn- 
sylvania and Col. Howard, of Maryland. At the next session of Congress, the 
matter was settled. Samuel Vinton argued for Ohio, in the House, and Thomas 
Ewing in the Senate. Michigan received an equivalent of the large peninsula 
between Lakes Huron, Michigan and Superior. Ohio received the disputed 
strip, averaging eight miles in width. Manhattan, Waterville and Providence 
are all flourishing towns. 

Lorain County was formed from Huron, Cuyahoga and Medina, on Decem- 
ber 26, 1822. The soil is generally fertile, and the surface level. Wheat, 
grass, oats, corn, rye and potatoes constitute the principal crops. Bog-iron ore 
is found in large quantities. A curious relic has been found in this county, bear-, 
ing the date of 1533. Elyria is the county seat, and was laid out in 1817. 
The first settler was Mr. Heman Ely. Oberlin is situated about eight miles 
southwest of Elyria. The Oberlin Collegiate Institute has attained a wide 
celebrity. 

Logan County was formed March 1, 1817. The surface is broken and hilly 
near the Mad River, but is generally level. The soil is fertile, producing 



134 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO 

"wheat, corn, rye, oats, clover, flax and timothy seed. The Shawnee Indians 
were located here, and built several villages on the Mad River. These towns 
were destroyed in 1786, by a body of Kentuckians, under Gen. Benjamin 
Logan. The whites surprised the towns. However, they returned after the 
work of destruction had been completed, and for many years frequented the 
section. On the site of Zanes field was a Wyandot village. By the treaty of 
September 29, 1817, the Senecas and Shawnees held a reservation around 
Lewistown. April 6, 1832, they vacated this right and removed west. Isaac 
Zane was born about the year 1753, and was, while a boy, captured and after- 
ward adopted by the Wyandots. Attaining the age of manhood, he had no 
desire to return to his people. He married a Wyandot woman, w^ho was half 
French. After the treaty of Greenville, he bought 1,800 acres on the site of 
Zanesville, where he lived until the year 1816, when he died, lamented by all 
his friends. 

Logan County was settled about the year 1806. During the war of 1812, 
it was a rendezvous for friendly Indians. Bellefontaine, the county seat, was 
laid out March 18, 1820, on land owned by John Tulles and William Powell. 
Joseph Gordon built a cabin, and Anthony Ballard erected the first frame 
dwelling. 

Gen. Simon Kenton is buried at the head of Mad River, five miles from 
Bellefontaine. He died April 29, 1836, aged eighty-one years and twenty-six 
days. This remarkable man came West, to Kentucky, in 1771. He probably 
encountered more thrilling escapes than any other man of his time. In 1778, 
he was captured and sufiered extreme cruelties, and was ransomed by the British. 
He soon recovered his robust health, and escaped from Detroit the following 
spring. He settled in Urbana in 1802. He was elected Brigadier General of 
the militia, and in the war of 1812, joined Gen. Harrison's army. In the year 
1820, he removed to Mad River. Gen. Vance and Judge Burnet secured him 
a pension, of $20 per month 

Licking County was formed from Fairfield March 1, 1808. The surface is 
generally level, diversified by slight hills in the eastern portion. The soil is 
fertile, producing wheat, corn, oats and grass. Coal and iron ore of good 
quality add to the wealth of the county. Wool and dairy productions are also 
staples. Newark is the county seat, and is situated at the confluence of the 
three prmcipal branches of the Licking. It was laid out by Gen. William C. 
Schenk, George W. Burnet and John M. Cummings, who owned this military 
section of 4,000 acres, in 1801. In 1802, Samuel Elliott and Samuel Parr 
built hewed-log houses. The picturesque "Narrows of the Licking" are in 
the eastern part of the county, which have elicited general praise from scenic 
hunters. 

Lawrence County was organized March 1, 1816. There are many high 
and abrupt hills in this section, which abound in sand or freestone. It is rich 
in minerals, and the most important section of Ohio for iron manufacture. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 135 

Coal is abundant, and white clay exists in the western part suitable for pot- 
tery purposes. Agricultural productions are not extensive. 

The county was settled in 1797 by the Dutch and Irish. The iron region 
extends through the west part of this county. Lawrence County produces a 
superior quality of iron, highly esteemed for castings, and is equal to Scotch 
pig for furnace purposes. Burlington is the county seat. 

Lake County was formed from Geauga and Cuyahoga March 6, 1840. The 
soil is good and the surface rolling. It produces wheat, corn, oats, buckwheat, 
barley, hay and potatoes. Dairy products, cattle and wool are also staples. 
Its fruits — apples, peaches, pears, plums and grapes are highly prized. As 
early as 1799, a settlement was formed at Mentor. Painesville, the county 
seat, is situated on Grand River, in a beautiful valley. The Painesville Acad- 
emy is a classical institution for the education of both sexes. Near the town 
is the Geauga furnace. Painesville was laid out by Henry Champion in 1805. 
At Fairport, the first warehouse in this section, and probably the first on the 
lake, was built by Abraham Skinner in 1803. This town has a fine harbor, 
and has a light-house and beacon. Kirtland, southwest from Painesville, was, 
in 1834, the headquarters of the Mormons. At that time, they numbered 
about three thousand. The old Mormon temple is of rough stone, plastered 
over, colored blue, and marked to imitate regular courses of masonry. As is 
well known, the Mormons derive their name from the book of Mormon, said to 
have been translated from gold plates found in a hill in Palmyra, N. Y. 

Madison County was organized in March, 1810. The surface is generally 
level. It produces grass, corn, oats and cattle — the latter forming a chief 
staple, while wool and pork add to the general wealth. 

Jonathan Alder was much interested in the settlement of the county. He, 
like some other whites, had lived with the Indians many years, and had formed 
a lasting afiection for them, and had married a squaw, with whom he became 
dissatisfied, which caused him to desire finding his own family. He suc- 
ceeded in this through the assistance of John Moore. He left his wife and 
joined his people. 

This county was first settled in 1795. Benjamin Springer made a clearing 
and built a cabin. He settled near Alder, and taught him the English lan- 
guage. Mr. Joshua Ewing brought four sheep to this place, and the Indians 
exhibited great astonishment over these strange animals. When the hostilities 
of 1812 began, the British offered inducements to the Indians to join them, and 
they consulted Alder regarding the best policy to adopt. He advised them to 
preserve neutrality until a later period, which they did, and eventually became 
firm friends of the Americans. 

London is the county seat, and was laid out in 1810-11, by Patrick McLene. 

Marion County was organized March 1, 1824. The soil is fertile, and pro- 
duces extensive farm crops. The Delaware Indians once held a reservation 
here, and conceded their claims in 1829, August 3, and removed west of the 



136 ' HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

Mississippi. Marion, the county seat, was laid out in 1821, by Eber Baker 
and Alexander Holmes. Gen. Harrison marched through this section during 
his campaign. 

Mahoning County was formed in 1846, from Trumbull and Columbiana. 
The surface is rolling and the soil generally fertile. The finer qualities of wood 
are produced here. Bituminous coal and iron are found in large quantities. 
Col. James Hillman came to the Western Reserve in 1786. The settlement 
of the county went forward. Canfield is the county seat. 

Medina County was formed from the Western Reserve February 12, 1812. 
The surface is rolling and the soil is fertile, producing fine agricultural prod- 
ucts. The first trail made through the county was made by George Poe, 
Joseph H. Larwell and Roswell M. Mason. The first settlement was made 
by Joseph Harris in 1811. He was soon joined by the Burr brothers. Me- 
dina is the county seat. 

Meigs County was formed from Gallia and Athens April 1, 1819. The 
general character of the soil is clayey, producing large quantities of wheat, oats, 
corn, hay and potatoes. Vast quantities of salt are made and exported. Pom- 
eroy, the county seat, is situated under a lofty hill, surrounded by picturesque 
scenery. Mr. Nathaniel Clark was the first settler of the county. He arrived in 
1816. The first coal mine opened in Pomeroy was in 1819, by David Bradshaw. 

Mercer County was formed from the Indian Territory in 1820. The sur- 
face is generally flat, and while covered with forests, inclined to be wet ; but, 
being cleared, it is very fertile, and adapted to producing farm crops. St. 
Clair's Battle was fought on the boundary line between this and Darke County. 
The Hon. Lewis Cass and Duncan McArthur made a treaty at St. Mary's with 
the Wyandots, Shawnees and Ottawas, in 1818. The odious Simon Girty lived 
at one time at St. Mary's. Wayne built St. Mary's Fort, on the west bank of 
the river. John Whistler was the last commander of the fort. The largest 
artificial lake in the world, so it is asserted, is formed by the reservoir sup- 
plying the St. Mary's feeder of the Miami Extension Canal. It is about nine 
miles long, and from two to four broad. Celina is the county seat. 

Miami County was formed January 16, 1807, from Montgomery. It abounds 
in excellent limestone, and possesses remarkable water-power facilities. Its agri- 
cultural products rank highly in quality and quantity. John Knoop came into this 
section about the year 1797, and its first settlement began about this time. Troy, 
the county seat, is situated upon the Great Miami. Piqua is another lovely 
town. The Miami River aifords delightful scenery at this point. 

Monroe County was formed January 29, 1813, from Belmont, Washington, 
and Guernsey. A portion of its surface is abrupt and hilly. Large quantities' 
of tobacco are raised, and much pork is exported. Wheat and corn grow well 
in the western portion. Iron ore and coal abound. The valleys of the streams 
are very narrow, bounded by rough hills. In some places are natural rock 
grottoes. The first settlement was made in 1799, near the mouth of the Sunfish. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 137 

At this time, wolves were numerous, and caused much alarm. Volney entered 
this county, but was not prepossessed in its favor. One township is settled by 
the Swiss, who are educated and refined. Woodsfield is the county seat. 

Montgomery County was formed from Ross and Hamilton May 1, 1803. 
The soil is fertile, and its agricultural products are most excellent. Quarries of 
grayish-white limestone are found east of the Miami. 

Dayton is the county seat, situated on the Great Miami, at the mouth of Mad 
River. A company was formed in 1788, but Indian wars prevented settlement. 
After Wayne's treaty, in 1795, a new company was formed. It advanced 
rapidly between the years 1812 and 1820. The beginning of the Miami Canal 
renewed its prosperity, in 1827. The first canal-boat from Cincinnati arrived 
at Dayton on the 25th of January, 1829. The first one arrived from Lake 
Erie in June, 1845. Col. Robert Patterson came to Dayton in 1804. At one 
time, he owned Lexington, Ky., and about one third of Cincinnati. 

Morgan County was organized in 1818, March 1. The surface is hilly and 
the soil strong and fertile, producing wheat, corn, oats and tobacco. Pork is a 
prolific product, and considerable salt is made. The first settlement was made 
in 1790, on the Muskingum. McConnelsville is the county seat. Mr. Ayres 
made the first attempt to produce salt, in 1817. This has developed into a 
large industry. 

Morrow County was organized in 1848. It is drained by the Vernon 
River, Avhich rises in it, by the East Branch of the Olontangy or Whetstone 
River, and by Walnut Creek. The surface is undulating, the soil fertile. 
The staple products are corn, wheat, oats, hay, wool and butter. The sugar 
maple abounds in the forests, and sandstone or freestone in the quarries. 
Mount Gilead, the county seat, is situated on the East Branch of the Olen- 
tangy River. 

Muskingum County was formed from Washington and Fairfield. The sur- 
face is rolling or hilly. It produces wheat, corn, oats, potatoes, tobacco, wool 
and pork. Large quantities of bituminous coal are found. Pipe clay, buhr- 
stone or cellular quartz are also in some portions of the State. Salt is made in 
large quantities — the fine being obtained from a stratum of whitish sandstone. 
The Wyandots, Delawares, Senecas and Shawanoese Indians once inhabited this 
section. An Indian town occupied the site of Duncan's Falls. A large Shawan- 
oese town was located near Dresden. 

Zanesville is the county seat, situated opposite the mouth of the Licking. 
It was laid out in 1799, by Mr. Zane and Mr. Mclntire. This is one of the 
principal towns in the State, and is surrounded by charming scenery. 

Noble County, organized in 1851, is drained by Seneca, Duck and Wills 
Creeks. The surface is undulating, and a large part of it is covered with for- 
ests. The soil is fertile. Its staples are corn, tobacco, wheat, hay, oats and 
wool. Among its mineral resources are limestone, coal and petroleum. Near 
Caldwell, the county seat, are found iron ore, coal and salt. 



138 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

Ottawa County was formed from Erie, Sandusky and Lucas, March 6, 1840, 
It is mostly within the Black Swamp, and considerable of its land is prairie and 
•marsh. It was very thinly settled befere 1830. Extensive plaster beds exist 
on the peninsula, which extends into Lake Erie. It has also large limestone 
quarries, which are extensively worked. The very first trial at arms upon the 
soil of Ohio, during the war of 1812, occurred upon this peninsula. Port Clin- 
ton, the county seat, was laid out in 1827. 

Perry County was formed from Washington, Fairfield and Muskingum, 
March 1, 1817. Fine tobacco is raised in large quantities. Wheat, corn, oats, 
hay, cattle, pork and wool add to the general wealth. This county was first set- 
tled in 1801. First settler was Christian Binckley, who built the first cabin in 
the county, about five miles west of Somerset, near the present county line. 
New Lexington is now the county seat. 

Paulding County was formed from old Indian territory August 1, 1820. 
It produces corn, wheat and oats. Paulding is the county seat. 

Pickaway County was formed from Fairfield^ Ross and Franklin, January 
12, 1810. The county has woodland, barren, plain and prairie. The barrens 
were covered by shrub oaks, and when cleared are adapted to the raising of corn 
and oats. The Pickaway plains are three and a half miles west of Circleville, 
and this tract is said to contain the richest land in Ohio. Here, in the olden 
times, burned the great council fires of the red man. Here the allied tribes met 
Gen. Lewis, who fought the battle of Point Pleasant. Dunmoi-e's campaign 
was terminated on these plains. It was at the Chillicothe towns, after Dun- 
more's treaty, that Logan delivered his famous speech. Circleville, the county 
seat, is situated on the Scioto River and the Ohio Canal. It was laid out in 
1810, by Daniel Dresbach. It is situated on the site of ancient fortifications. 

Portage County was formed June 7, 1807, from Trumbull. It is a wealthy, 
thriving section. Over a thousand tons of cheese are annually produced. It 
also produces wheat, corn, oats, barley, buckw^heat, rye, butter and wool. 
Ravenna is the county seat, and was originally settled by the Hon. Benjamin 
Tappen in June, 1799. In 1806, an unpleasant difficulty arose between the 
settlers and a camp of Indians in Deerfield, caused by a horse trade between a 
white man and an Indian. David Daniels settled on the site of Palmyra in 1799. 

Pike County was organized in 1815. The surface is generally hilly, which 
abound with freestone, which is exported in large quantities for building pur- 
poses. Rich bottom lands extend along the Scioto and its tributaries. John 
Noland and the three Chenoweth brothers settled on the Pee Pee prairie about 
1796. Piketown, the former county seat, was laid out about 1814. Waverly, 
the present county seat, is situated on the Scioto River. 

Preble County was formed March 1, 1808, from Montgomery and Butler. 
The soil is varied. Excellent water-power facilities are furnished. 

Eaton, the county seat, was laid out in 1806, by William Bruce, who owned 
the land. An overflowing well of strong sulphur water is near the town, while 
directly beside it is a limestone quarry. Holderman's quarry is about two 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 139 

miles distant, from which is obtained a beautifully clouded gray stone. Fort St. 
Clair was built near Eaton, in the winter of 1791-92. Gen. Harrison was an En- 
sign at the time, and commanded a guard every other night for three weeks, during 
the building. The severe battle of November 6, 1792, was fought under its very 
guns. Little Turtle, a distinguished chief of the Miamis, roamed over this county 
for a time. He was witty, brave and earnest, and, although engaged in several 
severe contests with the whites, he was inclined toward peace. But when his 
warriors cried for war he led them bravely. 

Putnam County was formed April 1, 1820, from old Indian territory. The 
soil is fertile, its principal productions being wheat, corn, potatoes and oats. 
Large quantities of pork are exported. Kalida, once the county seat, was laid 
out in 1834. Ottawa is the county seat. 

Ross County was formed August 20, 1798, by the proclamation of Gov. St. 
Clair, and was the sixth county formed in the Northwestern Territory. The 
Scioto River and Paint Creek run through it, bordered with fertile lands. 
Much water-power is obtained from the many streams watering it. The main 
crops are wheat, corn and oats. It exports cattle and hogs. 

The Rev. Robert W. Finley, in 1794, addressed a letter of inquiry to Col. 
Nathaniel Massie, as many of his associates had designed settling in the new 
State. This resulted in packing their several eifects and setting out. A triv- 
ial Indian encounter was the only interruption they met with on their way. 
After Wayne's treaty, Col. Massie and many of these early explorers met 
again and formed a settlement — in 1796 — at the mouth of Paint Creek. In 
August of this year, Chillicothe was laid out by Col. Massie, in a dense forest. 
He donated lots to the early settlers. A ferry was established over the Scioto, 
and the opening of Zane's trace assisted the progress of settlement. 

Chillicothe, the county seat, is situated on the Scioto. Its site is thirty 
feet above the river. In 1800, it was the seat of the Northwestern Territorial 
Government. It was incorporated as a city in January, 1802. During the war 
of 1812, the city was a rendezvous for the United States troops. A large num- 
ber of British were at one time guarded here. Adena is a beautiful place, and 
the seat of Gov. Worthington's mansion, which was built in 1806. Near this 
is Fruit Hill, the residence of the late Gen. McArthur, and latterly the home 
of his son-in-law, the Hon. William Allen. Eleven miles from Chillicothe, on 
the road to Portsmouth, is the home of the hermit of the Scioto. 

Richland was organized March 1, 1813. It produces wheat, com, oats, hay, 
potatoes, rye, hemp and barley. It was settled about 1809, on branches of the 
Mohican. Two block-houses were built in 1812. Mansfield, the county seat, 
is charmingly situated, and was laid out in 1808, by Jacob Newman, James 
Hedges and Joseph H. Larwell. The county was at that period a vast wilder- 
ness, destitute of roads. From this year, the settlement progressed rapidly. 

Sandusky County was formed April 1, 1820, from the old Indian Territory. 
The soil is fertile, and country generally level. It mainly produces corn, wheat, 



140 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

oats, potatoes and pork. The Indians were especially delighted with this tract. 
Near Lower Sandusky lived a band of Wyandots, called the Neutral Nation. 
These two cities never failed to render refuge to any who sought their protec- 
tion. They preserved their peacemaking attributes through the Iroquois 
conflicts. Fremont, formerly called Lower Sandusky, the county seat, is 
situated at the head of navigation, on the Sandusky, on the site of the old 
reservation grant to the Indians, at the Greenville treaty council. Fort 
Stephenson was erected in August, 1813, and was gallantly defended by Col. 
Croghan. 

Summit County was formed March 3, 1840, from Medina, Portage and 
Stark. The soil is fertile and produces excellent fruit, besides large crops of 
corn, wheat, hay, oats and potatoes. Cheese and butter may be added as 
products. 

The first settlement made in the county was at Hudson, in 1800. The old 
Indian portage-path, exter ding through this county, between the Cuyahoga, and 
Tuscarawas Branch of the Muskingum. This was a part of the ancient boundary 
between the Six Nations and the Western Indians. Akron, the county seat, is 
situated on the portage summit. It was laid out in 1825. In 1811, Paul 
Williams and Amos and Minor Spicer settled in this vicinity. Middlebury was 
laid out in 1818, by Norton & Hart. 

Stark County was formed February 13, 1808. It is a rich agricultural 
county. It has large quantities of mineral coal, iron ore, flocks of the finest 
sheep and great water power. Limestone and extensive beds of lime-marl exist. 
The manufacture of silk has been extensively carried on. Frederick Post, the 
first Moravian missionary in Ohio, settled here in 1761. 

Canton is the county seat, situated in the forks of the Nimishillen, a tribu- 
tary of the Muskingum. It was laid out in 1806, by Bezaleel Wells, who 
owned the land. Massillon was laid out in March, 1826, by John Duncan. 

Shelby County was formed in 1819, from Miami. The southern portion is 
undulating, arising in some places to hills. Through the north, it is a flat table- 
land. It produces wheat, corn, oats and grass. The first point of English set- 
tlement in Ohio was at the mouth of Laramie's Creek, in this county, as early 
as 1752. Fort Laramie was built in 1794, by Wayne. The first white family 
that settled in this county was that of James Thatcher, in 1804. Sidney, the 
county seat, was laid out in 1819, on the farm of Charles Starrett. 

Seneca County was formed April 1, 1820, from the old Indian territory. 
Its principal products are corn, wheat, grass, oats, potatoes and pork. 

Fort Seneca was built durins; the war of 1812, The Senecas owned 
40,000 acres of land on the Sandusky River, mostly in Seneca County. 
Thirty thousand acres of this land was granted to them in 1817, at the treaty 
held at the foot of the Maumee Rapids. The remaining 10,000 was granted 
the following year. These Indians ceded this tract, however, to the Govern- 
ment in 1831. It was asserted by an old chief, that this band was the remnant 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 141 

of Logan's tribe. Tiffin, the county seat, was laid out by Josiah Hedges in 
the year 1821. 

Scioto County was formed May 1, 1803. It is a good agricultural section, 
besides producing iron ore, coal and freestone. It is said that a French fort 
stood at the mouth of the old Scioto, as early as 1740. In 1785, four families 
settled where Portsmouth now stands. Thomas McDonald built the first cabin in 
the county. The "French grant" was located in this section — a tract com- 
prising 24,000 acres. The grant was made in March, 1795. Portsmouth, the 
county seat, is located upon the Ohio. 

Trumbull County was formed in 1800. The original Connecticut Western 
Reserve was Avithin its limits. The county is well cultivated and very wealthy. 
Coal is found in its northern portion. We have, in our previous outline, given 
a history of this section, and it is not, therefore, necessary to repeat its details. 
Warren, the county seat, is situated on the Mahoning River. It was laid out 
by Ephraim Quinby in 1801. Mr. Quinby owned the soil. His cabin was built 
here in 1799. In August, 1800, while Mr. McMahon was away from home, 
a party of drunken Indians called at the house, abused the family, struck a 
child a severe blow with a tomahawk and threatened to kill the family. Mrs. 
McMahon could not send tidings which could reach her husband before noon 
the following day. The following Sunday morning, fourteen men and two 
boys armed themselves and went to the Indian camp to settle the difficulty. 
Quinby advanced alone, leaving the remainder in concealment, as he was better 
acquainted with these people, to make inquiries and ascertain their intentions. 
He did not return at once, and the party set out, marched into camp, and found 
Quinby arguing with Capt. George, the chief. Capt. George snatched his 
tomahawk and declared war, rushing forward to kill McMahon. But a bullet 
from the frontierman's gun killed him instantly, while Storey shot " Spotted 
John" at the same time. The Indians then fled. They joined the council at 
Sandusky. Quinby garrisoned his house. Fourteen days thereafter, the 
Indians returned with overtures of peace, which were, that McMahon and 
Storey be taken to Sandusky, tried by Indian laws, and if found guilty, pun- 
ished by them. This could not be done. McMahon was tried by Gen. St. 
Clair, and the matter was settled. The first missionary on the Reserve was the 
Rev. Joseph Badger. 

Tuscarawas County was formed February 15, 1808, from Muskingum. It 
is well cultivated with abundant supplies of coal and iron. 

The first white settlers were Moravian missionaries, their first visits dating 
back to 1761. The first permanent settlement was made in 1798. Miss Mary 
Heckewelder, the daughter of a missionary, was born in this county April 16, 
1781. Fort Laurens was built during the Revolution. It was the scene of a 
fearful carnage. It was established in the fall of 1778, and placed under the 
command of Gen. Mcintosh. New Philadelphia is the county seat, situated on 
the Tuscarawas. It was laid out in 1804 by John Knisely. A German 



142 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

colony settled in this county in 1817, driven from their native land by religious 
dictation they could not espouse. They called themselves Separatists. They 
are a simple-minded people, strictly moral and honest. 

Union County was formed from Franklin, Delaware, Logan and Madison in 
1820. It produces corn, grass, wheat, oats, potatoes, butter and cheese. 
Extensive limestone quarries are also valuable. The Ewing brothers made the 
first white settlement in 1798. Col. James Curry, a member of the State Leg- 
islature, was the chief instigator in the progress of this section. He located 
within its limits and remained until his death, which occurred in 1834. Marys- 
ville is the county seat. 

Van Wert County was formed from the old Indian territory April 1, 1820. 
A great deal of timber is within the limits of this county, but the soil is so 
tenacious that water will not sink through it, and crops are poor during wet 
seasons. The main product is corn. Van Wert, the county seat, was founded 
by James W. Riley in 1837. An Indian town had formerly occupied its site. 
Capt. Riley was the first white man who settled in the county, arriving in 1821. 
He founded Willshire in 1822. 

Vinton County was organized in ] 850. It is drained by Raccoon and Salt 
Creeks. The surface is undulating or hilly, and is extensively covered with 
forests in which the oak, buckeye and sugar maple are found. Corn, hay, but- 
ter and wool are staple products. Bituminous coal and iron ore are found. 
McArthur is the county seat. 

Washington County was formed by proclamation of Gov. St. Clair July 27, 
1788, and was the first county founded within the limits of Ohio. The surface 
is broken with extensive tracts of level, fertile land. It was the first county 
settled in the State under the auspices of the Ohio Company. A detachment 
of United States troops, under command of Maj. John Doughty, built Fort 
Harmar in 1785, and it was the first military post established in Ohio by 
Americans, with the exception of Fort Laurens, which was erected in 3778. 
It was occupied by United States troops until 1790, when they were ordered 
to Connecticut. A company under Capt. Haskell remained. In 1785, the 
Directors of the Ohio Company began practical operations, and settlement 
went forward rapidly. Campus Martins, a stockade fort, was completed in 
1791. This formed a sturdy stronghold during the war. During the Indian 
war there was much suffering in the county. Many settlers were killed and 
captured. 

Marietta is the county seat, and the oldest town in Ohio. Marietta College 
was chartered in 1835. Herman Blannerhassett, whose unfortunate association 
with Aaron Burr proved fatal to himself, was a resident of Marietta in 1796. 
About the year 1798, he began to beautify and improve his island. 

Warren County was formed May 1, 1803, from Hamilton. The soil is 
very fertile, and considerable water-power is furnished by its streams. Mr. 
Bedell made the first settlement in 1795. Lebanon is the eounty seat. Henry 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 14B 

Taylor settled in this vicinity in 1796. Union Village is a settlement of 
Shakers. They came here about 1805. 

Wayne County was proclaimed by Gov. St. Clair August 15, 1796, and 
was the third county in the Northwest Territory. The settlement of this sec- 
tion has already been briefly delineated. Wooster is the county seat. It was 
laid out during the fall of 1808, by John Beaver, William Henry and Joseph 
H. Larwell, owners of the land. Its site is 337 feet above Lake Erie. The 
first mill was built by Joseph Stibbs, in 1809, on Apple Creek. In 1812, a 
block- house was erected in Wooster, 

Wood County was formed from the old Indian territory in 1820. The soil 
is rich, and large crops are produced. The county is situated within the Mau- 
mee Valley. It was the arena of brilliant military exploits during early times. 
Bowling Green is the county seat. 

Williams County was formed April 1, 1820, from the old Indian territory. 
Bryan is the county seat. It was laid out in 1840. 

Wyandot County was formed February 3, 1845, from Marion, Hardin, Han- 
cock and Crawford. The surface is level, and the soil exceedingly fertile. 
The Wyandot Indians occupied this section, especially the reservation, from 
time immemorial until 1843. The treaty of 1817, by Hon. Lewis Cass and 
Hon. Duncan McArthur, United States Commissioners, granted to the Indians 
a reservation twelve miles square, the central point being Fort Ferree, now 
within the corporate limits of Upper Sandusky. The Delaware Reserve was 
ceded to the United States in 1829. The Wyandots ceded theirs March 17, 
1842. Col. John Johnston, the United States Commissioner, conducted the 
negotiations, and thus made the Indian treaty in Ohio. It was the scene of 
Col. Crawford's defeat and tragic death, June 11, 1782. The Wyandots were 
exceedingly brave, and several of their chiefs were distinguished orators and 
men of exalted moral principles. 

Upper Sandusky is the county seat, and was laid out in 1843. Gen. Har- 
rison had built Fort Ferree on this spot during the war of 1812. Gov. Meigs, 
in 1813, encamped on this river with several thousand of the Ohio militia. 

The Indian village of Crane Town was originally called Upper Sandusky. 
The Indians, after the death of Tarhe, or " the Crane," transferred their town 
to Upper Sandusky. 

GOVERNORS OF OHIO. 

The Territorial Governors we have already mentioned in the course of our 
brief review of the prominent events of the State of Ohio. After the Terri- 
tory was admitted as a State, in 1802, Edward Tiffin was elected to that posi- 
tion, and again received the same honor in 1804 and 1806. In 1807, circum- 
stances led him to resign, and Thomas Kirker, Speaker of the Senate, acted as 
Governor until the close of the term. 

Edward Tiffin was born in Carlisle, England, coming to this country in 
1784, at the age of eighteen. He entered the University of Pennsylvania, and 
applied himself to the study of medicine, graduating and beginning his practice 
at the age of twenty, in the State of Virginia. In 1789, he married Mary, 



144 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

daughter of Col. Worthington, and sister of Thomas Worthington, who subse- 
quently became Governor of Ohio. In his profession, Gov. Tiffin was highly 
esteemed, and his public labors were carried forward Avith a zealous earnestness; 
which marked his career as one of usefulness. He settled in Chillicothe, Ohio, 
in 1796, where he died, in 1829. 

Samuel Huntington, the recipient of the honor of third Governor, was 
inaugurated in 1808. He was an American by birth, Norwich, Conn.^ 
being his native place. He was a diligent student in Yale College, graduating 
in 1785. He removed to Cleveland, Ohio, in 1801. He attained a reputation 
for integrity, ability and rare discretion. As a scholar, he was eminently supe- 
rior. He resided in Cleveland at the time of his death, in 1817. 

Return Jonathan Meigs followed Gov. Huntington. He was born in Mid- 
dletown. Conn., in 1765. He was also a student in Yale College, graduating 
in 1785, with the highest honors. He immediately entered the study of law, 
and was admitted to practice in his twenty-third year. He married Miss Sophia 
Wright, and settled in Marietta, Ohio, in 1788. He took his seat as Gover- 
nor in 1810, and was re-elected in 1812. In 1813, President Madison appointed 
him to the position of Postmaster General, which occasioned his resignation as 
Governor. Othniel Looker, Speaker of the Senate, acted as Governor during 
the remainder of the term. Mr. Meigs died in 1825, leaving as a memento of 
his usefulness, a revered memory. 

Thomas Worthington, the sixth Governor, was born in Jefferson County, 
Va., in 1769. He gained an education in William and Mary's College. 
In 1788, he located at Chillicothe, and was the first Senator from the new 
State. He was also the first man to erect the first saw-mill in Ohio. He 
served two terms as Senator, from 1803 to 1815, resigning in 1814, to take his 
position as Governor. In 1816, he was re-elected. He was exceedingly active 
in paving the way for the future prosperity of Ohio. His measures were famous 
for practical worth and honesty. Chief Justice Chase designated him as " a 
gentleman of distinguished ability and great influence." He died in 1827. 

Ethan Allen Brown followed Mr. Worthington. His birthplace w^as on the 
shore of Long Island Sound, in Fairfield County, Conn., July 4, 1766. His 
education was derived under the most judicious instruction of a private tutor. 
In classics, he became proficient. Directly he had reached the required stand- 
ard in general education, he began the study of law, at home. After becoming 
conversant with preliminary requirements, he entered the law office of Alex- 
ander Hamilton, who at that time was a national pride, as a scholar, lawyer and 
statesman. Opportunities coming in his way, which promised a fortune, he 
abandoned the law, and achieved success and a fortune. He then decided to 
return to his study, and was admitted to practice in 1802. Thereafter, he was 
seized with an exploring enthusiasm, and with his cousin as a companion, set 
out upon a horseback tour, following the Indian trails from east to west, through 
Pennsylvania, until they reached Brownsville, on the Monongahela River. Here 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 145 

they purchased two flatboats, and fully stocking them with provisions and 
obtaining efficient crews, started for New Orleans. Reaching that city, they 
found they could not dispose of their cargoes to any advantage, and shipped the 
flour to Liverpool, England, taking passage in the same vessel. They succeeded 
in obtaining good prices for their stock, and set sail for America, arriving in Bal- 
timore nine months after first leaving " home," on this adventure. Mr. Brown's 
father decided to secure a large and valuable tract of Western land, as a per- 
manent home, and authorized his son to select and purchase the same for him. 
He found what he desired, near Rising Sun, Ind. After this, he settled in 
Cincinnati, and engaged in the practice of law, speedily achieving prominency 
and distinction. Financially, he was most fortunate. In 1810, he was elected 
Judge of the Supreme Court, which position he filled with honor, until he was 
chosen Governor, in 1818. He was re-elected in 1820. In 1821, he received 
the honor of Senator, and served one term. Allen Trimble, Speaker of the 
Senate, acted as Governor the remainder of the term. In 1830 he was 
appointed Minister to Brazil. He remained there four years, and returning, 
was appointed Commissioner of Public Lands, by President Jackson, holding 
this position two years. At this time, he decided to retire from public life. 
Since he never married, he was much with his relatives, at Rising Sun, Ind., 
during the latter part of his life. His death was sudden and unexpected, occur- 
ring in February, 1852, while attending a Democratic Convention, at Indianap- 
olis, Ind. He was interred near his father, at Rising Sun. 

Jeremiah Morrow, the ninth Governor of Ohio, was born at Gettysburg, 
Penn., in October, 1771. His people were of the " Scotch-Irish " class, and his 
early life was one of manual labor upon his father's farm. During the winter, 
he had the privilege of a private school. With a view of establishing himself 
and securing a competency, he bade the old home farewell, in 1795, and set out 
for the " Far West." A flatboat carried him to a little cluster of cabins, known 
by the name of Columbia, six miles from Fort Washington — Cincinnati. He 
devoted himself to whatever came in his way, that seemed best and most worthy 
— teaching school, surveying and working on farms between times. Having 
accumulated a small capital, he ascended the Little Miami, as far as Warren 
County, and there purchased an extensive farm, and erected an excellent log 
house. In the spring of 1799, he married Miss Mary Packtrell, of Columbia. 
The young couple set out upon pioneer farming. Gaining popularity as well as 
a desirable property, he was deputized to the Territorial Legislature, which met 
at Chillicothe, at which time measures were inaugurated to call a Constitutional 
Convention, during the following year, to organize the State of Ohio. Mr. 
Morrow was one of the Delegates to this convention, and steadfastly worked in the 
interests of those who sent him, until its close in 1802. The following year, 
he was elected to the Senate of Ohio, and in June of the same year, he was 
appointed the first Representative to the United States Congress from the new 
State, 



14G HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

Ohio was then entitled to but one Representative in Congress, and could not 
add to that number for ten years thereafter. During these years, Mr. Morrow 
represented the State. In 1813, he was sent to the United States Senate, and 
in 1822, was elected Governor of Ohio, almost unanimously, being re-elected in 
1824. It was during his administration that work was begun on the Ohio 
Canal. Mr. Morrow received the national guest. La Fayette, with an earnest 
and touching emotion, which aifected the emotions of the generous Frenchman 
more profoundly than any of the elaborate receptions which paved his way 
through America. On the 4th of July, 1839, Gov. Morrow was appointed to 
lay the corner stone of the new State capitol, at Columbus, and to deliver the 
address on this occasion. Again, in 1840, he was in the House of Representa- 
tives, filling the vacancy caused by the resignation of Hon. Thomas Corwin. 
He was elected for the following term also. He died at his own homestead, in 
Warren County, March 22, 1853. 

Allen Trimble was a native of Augusta County, Va. The date of his birth 
was November 24, 1783. His ancestors were of Scotch-Irish origin, and were 
among the early settlers of Virginia. His father moved to Ohio in 1804, pur- 
chasing a tract of land in Highland County. His cabin was remarkably spa- 
cious, and elicited the admiration of his neighbors. He cleared six acres of 
land for an orchard, and brought the trees on horseback, from Kentucky. Be- 
fore this new home was completed, Allen, then a young man of twenty, took 
possession. This was in the year 1805. Four years thereafter, he occupied 
the position of Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas and Recorder of High- 
land County. He was serving in the latter capacity at the breaking out of the 
war of 1812. Naturally enthusiastic and patriotic, he engaged a competent 
person to perform his civil duties, while he went into active service as Colonel 
of a regiment he had summoned and enlisted. He was always eager to be in 
the front, and led his men with such valor that they Avere termed soldiers who 
did not know the art of flinching. His commanding General lavished praises 
upon him. In 1816, he was in the State Senate, representing Highland 
County. He occupied the same position for four terms, two years each. In 
1818, he was Speaker of the Senate, over Gen. Robert Lucas. He remained 
in this office until elected to the United States Senate, to fill the vacancy caused 
by the death of his brother, Col. William A. Trimble. When Governor Brown 
resigned to accept the office of United States Senator in 1822, he succeeded to 
the office, acting as Governor the remainder of the term. In October, 1826, 
he was elected Governor of Ohio, by an astonishing majority. The united vote 
of his three competitors was but one-sixth of the vote polled. Gov. Trimble 
was an earnest Henry Clay Whig. In 1828 he was re-elected. Gov. Trimble 
was married in 1806 to Miss Margaret McDowell. Three years thereafter 
she died, leaving two children. He was united in marriage to Miss Rachel 
Woodrow, and they lived together sixty years, when he died, at home, in Hills- 
boro, Highland County, Feb. 3, 1870. His wife survived him but a few months. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 147 

Duncan Mc Arthur, the tenth Governor of Ohio, was born in Dutchess 
County, N. Y., in 1772. While yet a child, his parents removed to the west- 
ern part of Pennsylvania, where they entered upon the hard life of pioneers. 
While there, young Duncan had the meager advantages of a backwoods school. 
His life was a general routine until his eighteenth year, when he enlisted under 
Gen. Harmer for the Indian campaign. His conduct and bravery won worthy 
laurels, and upon the death of the commander of his company, he was elected 
to that position, although the youngest man in the company. When his days 
of service had expired, he found employment at salt-making in Maysville, Ky., 
until he was engaged as chain-bearer in Gen. Massie's survey of the Scioto 
Valley. At this time, Indian atrocities alarmed the settlers occasionally, and 
his reputation for bravery caused him to be appointed one of the three patrols 
of the Kentucky side of the Ohio, to give the alarm to scattered cabins in case 
of danger. This was during the summer of 1793. Gen. Massie again secured 
his services, this time as assistant surveyor. He was thus engaged for several 
years, during which time he assisted in platting Chillicothe. He purchased a 
large tract of land just north of town, and under his vigorous and practical 
management, it became one of the finest estates of Ohio, which reputation it 
sustains at the present time. He amassed wealth rapidly, his investments 
always being judicious. In 1805, he was elected to the State Legislature. 
He was a Colonel of an Ohio regiment, and accompanied Gen. Hull to Detroit 
in 1813. At Hull's surrender he was a prisoner, but released on parole, 
returned to Ohio in a state of indignation over his commander's stupidity. 
Soon thereafter he was sent to Congress on the Democratic ticket. Soon there- 
after he was released from parole by exchange, and, greatly rejoiced, h& 
resigned his seat, entered the army as a Brigadier General under Gen. Harri- 
son, and the following year succeeded him as commander of the Northwestern 
forces. At the termination of the war, he was immediately returned to the 
State Legislature. He occupied State offices until 1822, when he was again 
sent to Congress. Serving one term, he declined re-election. In 1830, he 
was elected Governor of Ohio. When his term expired, he decided to enjoy 
life as a citizen on his farm, " Fruit Hill," and lived there in contentment until 
1840, when he died. 

Robert Lucas Avas another Virginian, having been born in 1781, in Jeffer- 
son County of that State. While a boy, his father liberated his slaves, moving 
to Chillicothe as one of the early settlers. He procured a proficient tutor for 
his children. Robert became an expert in mathematics and surveying. Before 
he reached his majority, he was employed as surveyor, earning liberal compen- 
sation. At the age of twenty-three, he was appointed Surveyor of Scioto 
County. At twenty-five, he was Justice of the Peace for Union Township, 
Scioto County. He married Miss Elizabeth Brown in 1810, who died two 
years thereafter, leaving a young daughter. In 1816, he married Miss Sum- 
ner. The same year he was elected a member of the Ohio Legislature- For 



148 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

nineteen consecutive years he served in the House or Senate. In 1820 and 
1828, he was chosen one of the Presidential electors of Ohio. In 1832, 
he was Chairman of the National Convention at Baltimore, which nom- 
inated Gen. Jackson as President of the United States. In 1832, he 
became Governor of Ohio, and was re-elected in 1834. He declined a third 
nomination, and was appointed by President Van Buren Territorial Governor 
of Iowa and Superintendent of Indian Affairs. On the ' 16th of August, 
1838, he reached Burlington, the seat of government. He remained in Iowa 
until his death, in 1853. 

Joseph Vance, the twelfth Governor of Ohio, was born in Washington 
County, Penn., March 21, 1781. He was of Scotch-Irish descent, and his 
father emigrated to the new Territory when Joseph was two years of age. He 
located on the southern bank of the Ohio, building a solid block house. This 
formed a stronghold for his neighbors in case of danger. In 1801, this pioneer 
decided to remove north of the Ohio River, and eventually settled in Urbana. 
Joseph had the primitive advantages of the common schools, and became pro- 
ficient in handling those useful implements — the plow, ax and rifle. The first 
money he earned he invested in a yoke of oxen. He obtained several barrels 
of salt, and set out on a speculative tour through the settlements. He traveled 
through a wilderness, over swamps, and surmounted serious difficulties. At 
night he built a huge fire to terrify the wolves and panthers, and laid down to 
sleep beside his oxen, frequently being obliged to stand guard to protect 
them from these ferocious creatures. Occasionally he found a stream so swol- 
len that necessarily he waited hours and even days in the tangled forest, before 
he could cross. He often suffered from hunger, yet he sturdily persevered and 
sold his salt, though a lad of only fifteen years. When he attained his major- 
ity, he married Miss Mary Lemen, of Urbana. At twenty-three, he was 
elected Captain of a rifle company, and frequently led his men to the front to 
fight the Indians prior to the war of 1812. During that year, he and his 
brother piloted Hull's army through the dense forests to Fort Meigs. In 1817, 
with Samuel McCullough and Henry Van Meter, he made a contract to supply 
the Northwestern army with provisions. They drove their cattle and hogs 
many miles, dead weight being transported on sleds and in wagons. He 
engaged in mercantile business at Urbana and Fort Meigs — now Perrysburg. 

While thus employed, he was elected to the Legislature, and there remained 
four years. He then purchased a large tract of land on Blanchard's Fork, 
and laid out the town of Findlay. He was sent to Congress in 1821, and was 
a member of that body for fifteen years. In 1836, he was chosen Governor of 
Ohio. Again he was sent to Congress in 1842. While attending the Consti- 
tutional Convention in 1850, he was stricken with paralysis, and suffered 
extremely until 1852, when he died at his home in Urbana. 

Wilson Shannon was a native of Belmont County, Ohio. He was born 
during 1803. At the age of fifteen, he was sent to the university at Athens, 







^ >% 




HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 151 

where he remained a year, and then changed to the Transylvania University, 
at Lexington, Ky. He continued his studies tjvo years, then returning home 
and entering upon reading law. He completed his course at St. Clairsville, 
Belmont County, and was admitted to practice. He was engaged in the courts 
of the county for eight years. In 1832, the Democrats nominated him to Con- 
gress, but he was not elected. He received the position of Prosecuting Attor- 
ney in 1834, in which position his abilities were so marked that in 1838 he was 
elected Governor by a majority of 3,600. He was re-nominated in 1840, but 
Tom Corwin won the ticket. Two years thereafter he was again nominated and 
elected. In 1843 he was appointed Minister to Mexico, Thomas W. Bartley, 
Speaker of the Senate, acting as Governor the remainder of the term. When 
Texas was admitted as a State, Mexico renounced all diplomatic relations with the 
United States. Mr. Shannon returned horn and resumed the practice of law. He 
was sent to Congress in 1852. President Pierce conferred upon him the posi- 
tion of Territorial Governor of Kansas, which duty he did not perform satis- 
factorily, and was superseded after fourteen months of service. He settled in 
Lecompton, Kan., and there practiced law until his death, which occurred in 
1877. 

Thomas Corwin, the fourteenth Governor of Ohio, was born in Bourbon 
County, Ky., July 29, 1794. His father settled at Lebanon in 1798. ■ The 
country was crude, and advantages meager. When Thomas was seventeen 
years of age, the war of 1812 was inaugurated, and this young man was 
engaged to drive a wagon through the wilderness, loaded with provisions, to 
Gen. Harrison's headquarters. In 1816, he began the study of law, and 
achieved knowledge so rapidly that in 1817 he passed examination and was 
admitted to practice. He was elected Prosecuting Attorney of his county, in 
1818, which position he held until 1830. He was elected to the Legislature of 
Ohio in 1822. Again, in 1829, he was a member of the same body. He was 
sent to Congress in 1830, and continued to be re-elected for the space of ten 
years. He became Governor of Ohio in 1840. In 1845, he was elected to 
the United States Senate, where he remained until called to the cabinet of Mr. 
Fillmore, as Secretary of the Treasury. He was again sent to Congress in 
1858, and re-elected in 1860. He was appointed Minister to Mexico, by Pres- 
ident Lincoln. After his return, he practiced law in Washington, D. , 
where he died in 1866. 

Mordecai Bartley was born in 1783, in Fayette County, Penn. There he 
remained, on his father's farm, until he was twenty-one years of age. He mar- 
ried Miss Wells in 1804, and removed to Jefferson County, Ohio, where he 
purchased a farm, near Cross Creek. At the opening of the war of 1812, he 
enlisted in a company, and was elected its Captain. He entered the field under 
Harrison. At the close of the war, he removed to Richland County, and opened 
a clearing and set up a cabin, a short distance from Mansfield. He remained 
on his farm twenty years, then removing to Mansfield, entered the mercantile 

9 



152 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

business. In 1817, he was elected to the State Senate. He was sent to Con- 
gress in 1823, and served four terms. In 1844, he became Governor of Ohio, 
on the Whig ticket. He declined a re-nomination, preferring to retire to his 
home in Mansfield, where he died in 1870. 

William Bebb, the seventeenth Governor, was from Hamilton County, Ohio. 
He was born in 1804. His early instructions were limited, but thorough. He 
opened a school himself, when he was twenty years of age, at North Bend, 
residing in the house of Gen. Harrison. He remained thus employed a year, 
during which time he married Shuck. He very soon began the study of law, 
continuing his school. He was successful in his undertakings, and many pupils 
were sent him from the best families in Cincinnati. In 1831, he was admitted 
to practice, and opened an office in Hamilton, Butler County, remaining thus- 
engaged for fourteen years. In 1845, he was elected Governor of Ohio. In 
1847, he purchased 5,000 acres of land in the Rock River country, 111., and 
removed there three years later. On the inauguration of President Lincoln, he 
was appointed Pension Examiner, at Washington, and remained in that position 
until 1866, when he returned to his Illinois farm. He died at Rockford, 111., 
in 1873. 

Seabury Ford, the eighteenth Governor of Ohio, was born in the year 1802, 
at Cheshire, Conn. His parents settled in Burton Township. He attended 
the common schools, prepared for college at an academy in Burton, and entered 
Yale College, in 1821, graduating in 1825. He then began the study of law, 
in the law office of Samuel W. Phelps, of Painesville, completing his course 
with Judge Hitchcock. He began practice in 1827, in Burton. He married 
Miss Harriet E. Cook, of Burton, in 1828. He was elected by the Whigs to 
the Legislature, in 1835, and served six sessions, during one of which he was 
Speaker of the House. He entered the State Senate in 1841, and there 
remained until 1844, when he was again elected Representative. In 1846, he 
was appointed to the Senate, and in 1848, he became Governor of Ohio. On 
the first Sunday after his retirement, he was stricken with paralysis, from which 
he never recovered. He died at his home in Burton in 1855. 

Reuben Wood, the nineteenth Governor, was a Vermonter. Born in 1792, 
in Middleton, Rutland County, he was a sturdy son of the Green Mountain 
State. He was a thorough scholar, and obtained a classical education in Upper 
Canada. In 1812, he was drafted by the Canadian authorities to serve against 
the Americans, but being determined not to oppose his own land, he escaped 
one stormy night, accompanied by Bill Johnson, who was afterward an Ameri- 
can spy. In a birchbark canoe they attempted to cross Lake Ontario. A 
heavy storm of wind and rain set in. The night was intensely dark, and they 
were in great danger. They fortunately found refuge on a small island, where 
they were storm-bound three days, suffering from hunger and exposure. They 
reached Sacket's Harbor at last, in a deplorable condition. Here they were 
arrested as spies by the patrol boats of the American fleet. They were prisoners 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 153 

four days, when an uncle of Mr. Wood's, residing not far distant, came to 
their rescue, vouched for their loyalty, and they were released. Mr. Wood 
then went to Woodville, N. Y., where he raised a company, of which he was 
elected Captain. They marched to the northern frontier. The battles of 
Plattsburg and Lake Champlain were fought, the enemy defeated, and the com- 
pany returned to Woodville and was disbanded. 

Young Wood then entered the law office of Gen. Jonas Clark, at Middle- 
bury, Vt. He was married in 1816, and two years later, settled in Cleveland, 
Ohio. When he first established himself in the village, he possessed his wife, 
infant daughter and a silver quarter of a dollar. He was elected to the State 
Senate in 1825, and filled the office three consecutive terms. He was appointed 
Judge of the Court of Common Pleas. He was promoted to the Bench of the 
Supreme Court, serving there fourteen years, the latter portion of the term as 
Chief Justice. He was termed the "Cayuga Chief," from his tall form and 
courtly bearing. He was elected Governor in 1850, by a majority of 11,000. 
The new constitution, which went into effect in March, 1851, vacated the office 
of Governor, and he was re-elected by a majority of 26,000. The Democrats 
holding a national convention in Baltimore in 1852, party division caused fifty 
unavailing votes. The Virginia delegation offered the entire vote to Gov. 
Wood, if Ohio would bring him forward. The opposition of one man pre- 
ve'nted this. The offer was accepted by New Hampshire, and Frank Pierce 
became President. Mr. Wood was appointed Consul to Valparaiso, South 
America, and resigned his office of Governor. He resigned his consulship and 
returned to his fine farm near Cleveland, called "Evergreen Place." He 
expected to address a Union meeting on the 5th of October, 1864, but on the 
1st he died, mourned by all who knew him. 

William Medill, the twentieth Governor, was born in New Castle County, 
Del., in 1801. He was a graduate of Delaware College in 1825. He began 
the study of law under Judge Black, of New Castle, and was admitted to the 
bar in 1832. He removed to Lancaster, Ohio, in 1830. He was elected Rep- 
resentative from Fairfield County in 1835. He was elected to Congress in 
1838, and was re-elected in 1840. He was appointed Assistant Postmaster 
General by President Polk. During the same year, he was appointed Com- 
missioner of Indian Affairs. In 1851, he was elected Lieutenant Governor, and, 
in 1853, he became Governor. He occupied the position of First Comptroller 
of the United States Treasury in 1857, under President Buchanan, retaining the 
office until 1861, when he retired from public life. His death occurred in 
1865. 

Salmon P. Chase was a native of Cornish, N. H. He was born in 1803. 
He entered Dartmouth College in 1822, graduating in 1826. He was there- 
after successful in establishing a classical school in Washington, but finan- 
cially it did not succeed. He continued to teach the sons of Henry Clay, 
William Wirt and S. L. Southard, at the same time reading law when not busy 



154 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

as tutor. He was admitted to practice in 1829, and opened a law office in Cin- 
cinnati. He succeeded but moderately, and during his leisure hours prepared 
a new edition of the "Statutes of Ohio." He added annotations and a well- 
written sketch of the early history of the State. This was a thorough success, 
and gave the earnest worker popularity and a stepping-stone for the future. 
He was solicitor for the banks of the United States in 1834, and soon there- 
after, for the city banks. He achieved considerable distinction in 1837, in the 
case of a colored woman brought into the State by her master, and escaping 
his possession. He was thus brought out as an Abolitionist, which was further 
sustained by his defense of James G. Birney, who had suffered indictment for 
harboring a fugitive slave. In 1846, associated with William H. Seward, he 
defended Van Zandt before the Supreme Oburt of the United States. His 
thrilling denunciations and startling conjectures alarmed the slaveholding 
States, and subsequently led to the enactment of the fugitive-slave law of 1850. 
Mr. Chase was a member of the United States Senate in 1849, through the 
coalition of the Democrats and Free-Soilers. In 1855, he was elected Gover- 
nor of Ohio by the opponents of Pierce's administration. He was re-elected 
in 1859. President Lincoln, in 1861, tendered him the position of Secretary 
of the Treasury. To his ability and official management we are indebted for 
the present national bank system. In 1864, he was appointed Chief Justice of 
the United States. He died in the city of New York in 1873, after a useful 
career. 

William Dennison was born in Cincinnati in 1815. He gained an educa- 
tion at Miami University, graduating in 1835. He began the study of law in 
the office of the father of George H. Pendleton, and was qualified and admitted 
to the bar in 1840. The same year, he married a daughter of William Neil, 
of Columbus. The Whigs of the Franklin and Delaware District sent him to 
the State Senate, in 1848. He was President of the Exchange Bank in Cin- 
cinnati, in 1852, and was also President of Columbus & Xenia Railway. He was 
elected the twenty-second Governor of Ohio in 1859. By his promptness and 
activity at the beginning of the rebellion, Ohio was placed in the front rank of 
loyalty. At the beginning of Lincoln's second term, he was appointed Post- 
master General, retiring upon the accession of Johnson. He then made his 
home at Columbus. 

David Tod, twenty-third Governor of Ohio, was born at Youngstown, Ohio, 
in 1805. His education was principally obtained through his own exertions. 
He set about the study of law most vigorously, and was admitted to practice in 
1827. He soon acquired popularity through his ability, and consequently was 
financially successful. He purchased the Briar Hill homestead. Under Jack- 
son's administration, he was Postmaster at Warren, and held the position until 
1838, when he was elected State Senator by the Whigs of Trumbull District, by 
the Democrats. In 1844, he retired to Briar Hill, and opened the Briar Hill 
Coal Mines. He was a pioneer in the coal business of Ohio. In the Cleveland 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 155 

& Mahoning Railroad, he was largely interested, and was its President, after the 
death of Mr. Perkins. He was nominated, in 1844, for Governor, by the Dem- 
ocrats, but was defeated. In 1847, he went to Brazil as Minister, where he 
resided for four and a half years. The Emperor presented him with a special 
commendation to the President, as a testimonial of his esteem. He was also the 
recipient of an elegant silver tray, as a memorial from the . resident citizens of 
Rio Janeiro. He was a delegate to the Democratic National Convention, which 
met at Charleston in 1860. He was Vice President of this Convention. He 
was an earnest advocate for Stephen A. Douglas. When the Southern members 
withdrew, the President, Caleb Cashing, going with them, the convention 
adjourned to Baltimore, when Mr. Tod assumed the chair and Douglas was nom- 
inated. He was an earnest worker in the cause, but not disheartened by its 
defeat. When Fort Sumter was fired upon, he was one of the most vigorous 
prosecutors of the war, not relaxing his active earnestness until its close. He 
donated full uniforms to Company B, of the Nineteenth Regiment, and contrib- 
uted largely to the war fund of his township. Fifty-five thousand majority 
elected him Governor in 1861. His term was burdened with war duties, 
and he carried them so bravely as Governor that the President said of him : 
" Governor Tod of Ohio aids me more and troubles me less than any other Gov- 
ernor." His death occurred at Briar Hill during the year 1868. 

John Brough was a native of Marietta, Ohio. He was born in 1811. The death 
of his father left him in precarious circumstances, which may have been a discipline 
for future usefulness. He entered a printing office, at the age of fourteen, in 
Marietta, and after serving a few months, began his studies in the Ohio Uni- 
versity, setting type mornings and evenings, to earn sufficient for support. He 
occupied the leading position in classes, and at the same time excelled as a 
type-setter. He was also admired for his athletic feats in field amusements. 
He completed his studies and began reading law, which pursuit was interrupted 
by an opportunity to edit a paper in Petersburg, Va. He returned to Marietta 
in 1831, and became editor and proprietor of a leading Democratic newspaper 
— the Washington County Republican. He achieved distinction rapidly, 
and in 1833, sold his interest, for the purpose of entering a more extended field 
of journalism. He purchased the Ohio Eagle, at Lancaster, and as its editor, 
held a deep influence over local and State politics. He occupied the position 
of Clerk of the Ohio Senate, between the years 1835 and 1838, and relinquished his 
paper. He then represented the counties of Fairfield and Hocking in the Leg- 
islature. He was then appointed Auditor of State by the General Assembly, 
in which position he served six years. He then purchased the Phcenix news- 
paper in Cincinnati, changed its name to the Enquirer, placing it in the care 
of his brother, Charles, while he opened a law office in the city. His editorials 
in the Enquirer, and his activity in political afiairs, were brilliant and strong. 
He retired from politics in 1848, sold a half-interest in the Enquirer and carried 
on a prosperous business, but was brought forward again by leaders of both 



156 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

political parties in 1863, through the Vallandigham contest, and was elected 
Governor the same year, by a majority of 101,099 votes in a total of 471,643. 
He was three times married. His death occurred in 1865 — Charles Anderson 
serving out his term. 

Jacob Dolson Cox, the twenty-sixth Governor, was born in 1828, in Mon- 
treal, Canada, where his parents were temporarily. He became a student of 
Oberlin College, Ohio, in 1846, graduating in 1851, and beginning the practice 
of law in Warren in 1852. He was a member of the State Senate in 1859, 
from the Trumbull and Mahoning Districts. He was termed a radical. He 
was a commissioned Brigadier General of Ohio in 1861, and, in 1862, was pro- 
moted to Major General for gallantry in battle. While in the service he was 
nominated for Governor, and took that position in 1865. He was a member of 
Grant's Cabinet as Secretary of the Interior, but resigned. He went to Con- 
gress in 1875, from the Toledo District. 

Rutherford B. Hayes, the nineteenth President of the United States, and 
the twenty-seventh Governor of Ohio, was born at Delaware, Ohio, in 1822. He 
was a graduate of Kenyon College in 1842. He began the study of law, and, 
in 1843, pursued that course in the Cambridge University, graduating in 1845. 
He began his practice at Fremont. He was married to Miss Lucy Webb in 
1852, in Cincinnati. He was Major of the Twenty-third Ohio Volunteer 
Infantry in 1861, and in 1862, was promoted to Colonel on account of bravery 
in the field, and eventually became Major General. In 1864, he was elected to 
Congress, and retired from the service. He remained in Congress tAvo terms, 
and was Governor of Ohio in 1867, being re-elected in 1869. He was again 
elected in 1875, but resigned in 1877, to accept the office of President of the 
United States, Thomas L. Young acting as Governor the remander of the term. 

Edward F. Noyes was born in Haverhill, Mass., in 1832. While a lad of 
fourteen, he entered the office of the Morning Star, published at Dover, N. H., 
in order to learn the business of printing. At the age of eighteen, he entered 
the academy at Kingston, N. H. He prepared for college, and entered 
Dartmouth in 1853, graduating with high honors in 1857. He had begun the 
study of law, and continued the course in the Cincinnati Law School, and began 
to practice in 1858. He was an enthusiast at the opening of the rebellion and 
was interested in raising the Twentieth Regiment, of which he was made Major. 
He was promoted to Colonel in 1862. At the conflict at Ruff"'s Mills, in 
Georgia, in 1864, he was so unfortunate as to lose a leg. At the time, amputa- 
tion was necessary, but was unskillfully performed. He was brought to Cincin- 
nati, and the operation was repeated, which nearly cost him his life. He reported 
three months later, to Gen. Hooker for duty, on crutches. He was assigned to 
command of Camp Dennison. He was promoted to the full rank of Brigadier 
General, and while in discharge of his duty at that place, he was elected City 
Solicitor of Cincinnati. He occupied the position until 1871, when he was 
elected Governor, by a majority of 20,000. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 157 

William Allen, the twenty-ninth Governor of Ohio, was born in 1807, in 
Chowan County, N. C. While an infant, he was left an orphan, and his sister 
superintended his education. He was placed in a private school at Lynchburg, 
Va., at the age of fourteen. Two years later he joined his family at Chilli- 
cothe, and attended the academy a year, when he entered the law office of 
Edward King. Before he was twenty-five he was sent to Congress by a strong 
Whig district. He was elected United States Senator in 1837 and served 
until 1849. In 1845 he married Effie McArthur, who died soon after the 
birth of their daughter. In 1873 he was elected Governor. His administra- 
tion gave general satisfaction. He died at his home at " Fruit Hill," in 1879. 

Richard M. Bishop, the thirty-first Governor of Ohio, was born November 
4, 1812, in Fleming County, Ky. For several years he devoted himself to 
mercantile business in his native State. In 1848 he engaged in the wholesale 
grocery business at Cincinnati, and subsequently admitted his three sons part- 
ners, under the firm name of R. M. Bishop & Sons. He was a member of the 
Council of Cincinnati, and in 1859 was its Mayor, holding that office until 1861. 
In 1877 he was nominated by the Democrats and elected Governor of Ohio. 

Charles Foster, the thirty-second Governor of Ohio, was born in Seneca 
County, Ohio, April 12, 1828. He was educated at the common schools and 
the academy at Norwalk, Ohio. Engaged in mercantile and banking business 
at Fostoria, and never held any public office until he was elected to the Forty- 
second Congress ; was re-elected to the Forty-third Congress, and again to the 
Forty-fourth Congress as a Republican. In 1879 he was nominated by the 
Republicans and elected Governor of the State, was re-elected in 1881, and 
served through both terms winning the esteem of all political parties. 

George Hoadly, the thirty-third Governor of Ohio, was born at New 
Haven, Conn., July 31, 1826. His parents, George and Mary Ann (Woolsey) 
Hoadly, names well known in the educational circles of Connecticut, were inti- 
mately connected with the commercial and social progress of that State. Gov. 
Hoadly completed his education at what is now known as Adelbert College, of 
which he is a LL. D., while in 1884 he received the same honor from Yale. In 
1844 he entered the law school of Cambridge, Mass.; in 1846 entered the 
office of Chase & Ball, Cincinnati, Ohio ; was admitted to the bar in August 
following ; elected Judge of the Cincinnati Superior Court in 1851, succeeded 
Judge Gholson on the bench of the present Superior Court in 1859, and was 
re-elected in 1864 ; refused a seat on the Supreme bench in 1856 and again in 
1862 ; was elected a member of the Constitutional Convention 1873-74. He 
was nominated by the Democrats for Governor in 1883 and elected. 

ANCIENT WORKS. 

Ohio has furnished a prolific field for antiquarians and those interested in 
scientific explorations, either for their own amusement and knowledge, or for 
the records of "facts and formations." 



158 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

It is well known that the " Mound Builders " had a wide sweep through this 
continent, but absolute facts regarding their era have been most difficult to 
obtain. Numerous theories and suppositions have been advanced, yet they are 
emphatic evidences that they have traced the origin and time of this primeval race. 

However, they have left their works behind them, and no exercise of faith 
is necessary to have confidence in that part of the story. That these works are 
of human origin is self-evident. Temples and military works have been found 
which required a considerable degree of scientific skill on the part of those early 
architects and builders. 

Evidently the Indians had no knowledge of these works of predecessors, 
which differed in all respects from those of the red men. An ancient cemetery 
has been found, covering an area of four acres, which had evidently been laid 
out into lots, from north to south. Nearly 3,000 graves have been discovered, 
containing bones which at some time must have constituted the framework of 
veritable giants, while others are of no unusual size. In 1815, a jaw-bone was 
exhumed, containing an artificial tooth of silver. 

Mounds and fortifications are plentiful in Athens County, some of them 
being of solid stone. One, differing in the quality of stone from the others, is 
supposed to be a dam across the Hocking. Over a thousand pieces of stone 
were used in- its construction. Copper rings, bracelets and ornaments are 
numerous. It is also evident that these people possessed the knowledge of 
hardening copper and giving it an edge equal to our steel of to-day. 

In the branch formed by a branch of the Licking River and Raccoon Creek, 
in Licking County, ancient works extend over an area of several miles. Again, 
three miles northwest of this locality, near the road between Newark and Gran- 
ville, another field of these relics may be found. On the summit of a high hill 
is a fortification, formed to represent an alligator. The head and neck includes 
32 feet ; the length of the body is 73 feet ; the tail was 105 feet ; from the termini of 
the fore feet, over the shoulders, the width is 100 feet ; from the termini of 
the hind feet, over the hips, is 92 feet ; its highest point is 7 feet. It is composed 
of clay, which must have been conveyed hither, as it is not similar to the clay 
found in the vicinity. 

Near Miamisburg, Montgomery County, are other specimens. Near the 
village is a mound, equaled in size by very few of these antiquities. It meas- 
ures 800 feet around the base, and rises to a height of sixty-seven feet. Others 
are found in Miami County, while at Circleville, Pickaway County, no traces 
remain. 

Two forts have been discovered, one forming an exact square, and the other 
describing a circle. The square is flanked by two walls, on all sides, these 
being divided by a deep ditch. The circle has one wall and no ditch. This is 
sixty-nine rods in diameter, its walls being twenty feet high. The square fort 
measures fifty-five rods across, with walls twelve feet high. Twelve gateways 
lead into the square fort, while the circle has but one, which led to the other, at 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 159 

the point where the walls of the two came together. Before each of these 
entrances were mounds of earth, from four to five feet high and nearly forty 
feet in diameter. Evidently these were designed for defenses for the openings, 
in cases of emergency. 

A short distance from Piketon, the turnpike runs, for several hundred feet, 
between two parallel artificial walls of earth, fifteen feet high, and six rods 
apart. In Scioto County, on both sides of the Ohio, are extensive ancient 
works. 

" Fort Ancient " is near Lebanon in Warren County. Its direct measure- 
ment is a mile, but in tracing its angles, retreating and salient, its length would 
be nearly six miles. Its site is a level plain, 240 feet above the level of the 
river. The interior wall varies in height to conform with the nature of the 
ground without — ranging from 8 to 10 feet. On the plain it reaches 100 feet. 
This fort has 58 gateways, through one of which the State road runs, passing 
between two mounds 12 feet high. Northeast from these mounds, situated on 
the plain, are two roads, about a rod wide each, made upon an elevation about 
three feet high. They run parallel to each other about a quarter of a mile, 
when they each form a semicircle around a mound, joining in the circle. It is 
probable this was at some time a military defense, or, on the contrary, it may 
have been a general rendezvous for games and high holiday festivities. 

Near Marietta, are the celebrated Muskingum River works, being a half- 
mile from its juncture with the Ohio. They consist of mounds and walls of 
earth in circular and square forms, also tracing direct lines. 

The largest square fort covers an area of 40 acres, and is inclosed by a wall 
of earth, 6 to 10 feet in height, and from 25 to 30 feet at its base. On each 
side are three gateways. The center gateways exceed the others in size, more 
especially on the side toward the Muskingum. From this outlet runs a covered 
means of egress, between two parallel walls of earth, 231 feet distant from each 
other, measuring from the centers. The walls in the interior are 21 feet high 
at the most elevated points, measuring 42 feet at the base, grading on the exte- 
rior to about five feet in heigth. This passage-way is 360 feet in length, lead- 
ing to the low grounds, which, at the period of its construction, probably reached 
the river. 

At the northwest corner, within the in closure, is a plateau 188 feet long, 
132 feet broad and 9 feet high. Its sides are perpendicular and its surface 
level. At the center of each side is a graded pathway leading to the top, six 
feet wide. Another elevated square is near the south wall, 150x120 feet square, 
and 8 feet high, similar to the other, with the exception of the graded walk. 
Outside and next the wall to ascend to the top, it has central hollow ways, 10 
feet wide, leading 20 feet toward the center, then arising with a gradual slope to 
the top. A third elevated square is situated at the southeast corner, 108x54 
feet square, with ascents at the ends. This is neither as high or as perfect as 
the others. 



160 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. \ 

Another ancient work is found to the southeast, covering an area of 20 acres 
with a gateway in the center of each side, and others at the corners — each of 
these having the mound defense. 

On the outside of the smaller fort, a mound resembling a sugar loaf was 
formed in the shape of a circle 115 feet in diameter, its height being 30 feet. 
A ditch surrounds it, 15 feet wide and 4 feet deep. These earthworks have 
contributed greatly to the satisfactory results of scientific researches. Their 
builders were evidently composed of large bands that have succumbed to the 
advance of enlightened humanity. The relics found consists of ornaments, 
utensils and implements of war. The bones left in the numerous graves convey 
an idea of a stalwart, vigorous people, and the conquests which swept them away 
from the face of the country must have been fierce and cruel. 

Other mounds and fortifications are found in difierent parts of the State, of 
which our limited space will not permit a description. 

Many sculptured rocks are found, and others with plainly discernible 
tracery in emblematical designs upon their surface. The rock on which the 
inscriptions occur is the grindstone grit of the Ohio exports — a stratum found 
in Northern Ohio. Arrow-points of flint or chert have been frequently found. 
From all investigations, it is evident that an extensive flint bed existed in Lick- 
ing County, near Newark. The old pits can now be recognized. They 
extended over a hundred acres. They are partially filled with water, and sur- 
rounded by piles of broken and rejected fragments. The flint is a grayish- 
white, with cavities of a brilliant quartz crystal. Evidently these stones were 
chipped into shape and the material sorted on the ground. Only clear, homo- 
genous pieces can be wrought into arrow-heads and spear-points. Flint chips 
extend over many acres of ground in this vicinity. Flint beds are also found 
in Stark and Tuscarawas Counties. In color it varies, being red, white, black 
and mottled. The black is found in Coshocton County. 

SOME GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS. 

Ohio, as a State, is renowned as an agricultural section. Its variety, quality 
and quantity of productions cannot be surpassed by any State in the Union. Its 
commercial importance ranks proudly in the galaxy of opulent and industrious 
States composing this Union. Her natural resources are prolific, and all improve- 
ments which could be instituted by the ingenuity of mankind have been added. 

From a quarter to a third of its area is hilly and broken. About the head- 
waters of the Muskingum and Scioto, and between the Scioto and the two 
Miami Rivers, are wide prairies ; some of them are elevated and dry, with fertile 
soil, although they are frequently termed "barrens." In other parts, they are 
low and marshy, producing coarse, rank grass, which grows to a height of five 
feet in some places. 

The State is most fortunate in timber wealth, having large quantities of 
black walnut, oak of difierent varieties, maple, hickory, birch, several kinds of 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 161 

"beech, poplar, sycamore, papaw, several kinds of ash, cherry, whitewood and 
buckeye. 

The summers are usually warm, and the winters are mild, considering the 
latitude of the State. Near Lake Erie, the winters are severe, corresponding 
with sections in a line with that locality. Snow falls in sufficient quantities 
in the northern part to afford several weeks of fine sleighing. In the southern 
portion, the snowstorms are not frequent, and the fall rarely remains long on 
the ground. 

The climate is generally healthy, with the exception of small tracts lying 
near the marshes and stagnant waters. 

The Ohio River washes the southern border of the State, and is navigable 
for steamboats of a large size, the entire length of its course. From Pitts- 
burgh to its mouth, measuring it meanderings, it is 908 miles long. Its current 
is gentle, having no falls except at Louisville, Ky., where the descent is twenty- 
two and a half feet in two miles. A canal obviates this obstruction. 

The Muskingum is the largest river that flows entirely within the State. It 
is formed by the junction of the Tuscarawas and Walhonding Rivers, and enters 
the Ohio at Marietta One hundred miles of its length is navigable. 

The Scioto is the second river in magnitude, is about 200 miles long, and 
flows into the Ohio at Portsmouth. It affords navigation 130 miles of its length. 
The Great Miami is a rapid river, in the western part of the State, and is 100 
miles long. The Little Miami is seventy miles in length, and enters the Ohio 
.seven miles from Cincinnati. 

The Maumee rises in Indiana, flows through the northwestern part of the 
State, and enters Lake Erie at Maumee Bay. It affords navigation as far as 
Perrysburg, eighteen miles from the lake, and above the rapids, it is again nav- 
igable. 

The Sandusky rises in the northern part of the State, is eighty miles long, 
and flows into Lake Erie, via Sandusky Bay. 

Lake Erie washes 150 miles of the northern boundary. The State has sev- 
eral fine harbors, the Maumee and Sandusky Bays being the largest. 

"We have, in tracing the record of the earlier counties, given the educational inter- 
ests as exemplified by different institutions. "VVe have also given the canal system 
of the State, in previous pages. The Governor is elected every two years, by 
the people. The Senators are chosen biennially, and are apportioned according 
to the male population over twenty-one years of age. The Judges of the 
Supreme and other courts are elected by the joint ballot of the Legislature, for 
the term of seven years. 

During the early settlement of Ohio, perfect social equality existed among the 
settlers. The line of demarkation that was drawn was a separation of the good 
from the bad. Log-rollings and cabin-raisings were mutual affairs. Their 
:sport usually consisted of shooting, rowing and hunting. Hunting shirts and 
buckskin pants were in the fashion, while the women dressed in coarse material, 



162 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

woven by their own hands. A common American cotton check was con- 
sidered a magnificent addition to one's toilet. In those times, however, the 
material was $1 per yard, instead of the shilling of to-day. But five yards 
was then a large "pattern," instead of the twenty-five of 1880. In cooking 
utensils, the pot, pan and frying-pan constituted an elegant outfit. A few plain 
dishes were added for table use. Stools and benches were the rule, although a 
few wealthy families indulged in splmt-bottom chairs. The cabin floors were 
rough, and in many cases the green sward formed the carpet. Goods were very 
expensive, and flour was considered a great luxury. Goods were brought by 
horses and mules from Detroit, or by wagon from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh, 
and then down the Ohio. Coarse calicoes were $1 per yard ; tea $2 to $3 per 
pound ; cofiee 75 cents ; whisky, from $1 to $2 per gallon, and salt, $5 to ^6 
per barrel. In those towns where Indian trade constituted a desirable interest, 
a bottle was set at each end of the counter — a gratuitous offering to their red 
friends. 

OUTLINE GEOLOGY OF OHIO. 

Should we group the rocks of Ohio, according to their lithological characters, 
we should give five distinct divisions. They are marked by difference in appear- 
ance, hardness, color and composition : 

1 — Limestone. 

2 — Black shale. 

3 — Fine-grained sandstone. 

4 — Conglomerate. 

5 — Coal series. 

They are all stratified and sedimentary. They are nearly horizontal. The 
lowest one visible, in a physical as well as a geological sense, is " blue lime- 
stone." 

The bed of the Ohio River near Cincinnati is 133 feet below the level of 
Lake Erie. The strata incline in all directions from the southwestern angle of 
the State. In Scioto County may be seen the outcropping edges of all these 
rocks. They sink at this point in the direction south 80J° east ; easterly at the 
rate of 37^ feet per mile. The cliff" limestone, the upper stratum of the lime- 
stone deposit, is 600 feet above the river at Cincinnati ; at West Union, in 
Adams County, it is only 350 feet above the same level. 

The finely grained sandstone found on the summit of the hills east of Brush 
Creek and west of the Scioto sinks to the base of the hills, and appears beneath 
the conglomerate, near the Little Scioto. Although the rock formations are the 
same in all parts of the State, in the same order, their thickness, mass and dip, 
are quite different. 

Chillicothe, Reynoldsburg, Mansfield, Newburg, Waverly and Rockville, are 
situated near the western border of the " fine-grained limestone." Its outcrop 
forms a continuous and crooked line from the Ohio River to Lake Erie. In the 
southwest portion of the State is the "blue limestone," occupying a circular 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 163 

space from West Union via Dayton, to the State line. The conglomerate is to 
the east of the given towns, bending around from Cuyahoga Falls to Burton, in 
Geauga County, and then eastward into Pennsylvania. Near this outcrop are 
the coal-bearing rocks which occupy the east and southeastern portions of Ohio. 
From Rockville to Chillicothe, the course is north, about 10° east, and nearly 
corresponds with the line of outcrop of the fine-grained sandstone for an equal 
distance. The dip at Rockville, given by Charles Whittlesey, is 80|°, almost 
at a right angle, and at the rate of 37 feet per mile. 

At Chillicothe, the other end of the line, the general dip is south 70° east, 
30 feet to the mile, the line curving eastward and the dip line to the southward. 
This is the universal law. 

The northern boundary of the great coal fields passes through Meadville, in 
Pennsylvania, and turning south arrives at Portage Summit, on the summit of 
the Alleghanies, 2,500 feet above the ocean level. It then plunges rapidly to 
the westward. From the Alleghanies to the southwest, through Pennsylvania, 
Virginia and Tennessee, sweeps this great coal basin. 

Much of the county of Medina is conglomerate upon the surface, but the 
streams, especially the South Branch of the Rocky River, set through this sur- 
face stratum, and reach the fine-grained sandstone. This is the case with 
Rocky, Chagrin, Cuyahoga and Grand Rivers — also Conneaut and Ashtabula 
Creeks. This sandstone and the shale extend up the narrow valleys of these 
streams and their tributaries. Between these strata is a mass of coarse-grained 
sandstone, without pebbles, which furnishes the grindstones for which Ohio is 
noted. In Lorain County, the coarse sandstone grit nearly displaces the fine- 
grained sandstone and red shale, thickening at Elyria to the black shale. South 
of this point, the grindstone grit, red shale and ash-colored shale vary in thick- 
ness. The town of Chillicothe, the village of Newburg, and a point in the west 
line of Crawford County, are all situated on the "black shale." 

Dr. Locke gives the dip, at Montgomery and Miami Counties, at north 14°, 
east, six feet to the mile; at Columbus, Whitelesey gives it, 81° 52' east, 22 ^^^ 
feet to the mile. The fine-grained sandstone at Newburg is not over eighty 
feet in thickness ; at Jacktown and Reynoldsburg, 500 ; at Waverly 250 to 
300 feet, and at Brush Creek, Adams County, 343 feet. The black shale is 
251 feet thick at Brush Creek ; at Alum Creek, 250 to 300 feet thick ; in Craw- 
ford County, about 250 feet thick. The conglomerate in Jackson County is 
200 feet thick ; at Cuyahoga Falls, 100 to 120 feet ; at Burton, Geauga County, 
300 feet. The great limestone formation is divided into several numbers. At 
Cincinnati, at the bed of the river, there is : 

1 — A blue limestone and slaty marlite. 

2 — Dun-colored marl and layers of lime rock. 

3 — Blue marl and layers of blue limestone. 

4 — Marl and bands of limestone, with immense numbers of shells at the 
surface. 



164 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

In Adams County, the detailed section is thus : 

1 — Blue limestone and marl. 

2 — Blue marl. 

3 — Flinty limestone. 

4 — Blue marl. 

5 — Cliff limestone. 

The coal-fields of Ohio are composed of alternate beds of coarse-grained 
sandstone, clay shales, layers of ironstone, thin beds of limestone and numer- 
ous strata of coal. The coal region abounds in iron. From Jacktown to Con- 
cord, in Muskingum County, there are eight beds of coal, and seven strata of 
limestone. The distance between these two points is forty-two miles. From 
Freedom, in Portage County, to Poland, in Trumbull County, a distance of 
thirty-five miles, there are five distinct strata. Among them are distributed 
thin beds of limestone, and many beds of iron ore. The greater mass of coal 
and iron measures is composed of sandstone and shale. The beds of sandstone 
are from ten to twenty or eighty feet thick. Of shale, five to fifty feet thick. 
The strata of coal and iron are comparatively thin. A stratum of coal three 
feet thick can be worked to advantage. One four feet thick is called a good 
mine, few of them averaging five. Coal strata are found from six to ten and 
eleven feet. There are four beds of coal, and three of limestone, in Lawrence 
and Scioto Counties. There are also eight beds of ore, and new ones are con- 
stantly being discovered. The ore is from four to twelve inches thick, occasion- 
ally being two feet. The calcareous ore rests upon the second bed of limestone, 
from the bottom, and is very rich. 

The most prominent fossils are trees, plants and stems of the coal-bearing 
rocks, shells and corals and crustacese of the limestone, and the timber, leaves 
and dirt-beds of the "drift" — the earthy covering of the rocks, which varies 
from nothing to 200 feet. Bowlders, or " lost rocks," are strewn over the State. 
They are evidently transported from some remote section, being fragments of 
primitive rock, granite, gneiss and hornblende rock, which do not exist in 
Ohio, nor within 400 miles of the State, in any direction. In the Lake Supe- 
rior region we find similar specimens. 

The superficial deposits of Ohio are arranged into four geological formations : 

1 — The ancient drift, resting upon the rocks of the State. 

2 — The Lake Erie marl and sand deposits. 

3 — The drift occupying the valleys of large streams, such as the Great Miami, 
the Ohio and Scioto. 

4 — The bowlders. 

The ancient drift of Ohio is meager in shell deposits. It is not, therefore, 
decided whether it be of salt-water origin or fresh water. 

It has, at the bottom, blue clay, with gravel-stones of primitive or sedimen- 
tary rocks, containing carbonate of lime. The yellow clay is found second. 
Above that, sand and gravel, less stratified, containing more pebbles of the 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 165- 

sedimentary rocks, such as limestone and stone, iron ore, coal and shale. The 
lower layer contains logs, trees, leaves, sticks and vines. 

The Lake Erie section, or "Lake Erie deposits," may be classed in the 
following order : 

1 — From the lake level upward, fine, blue, marly sand — forty-five to sixty 
feet. 

2 — Coarse, gray, water-washed sand — ten to twenty feet. 

3 — Coarse sand and gravel, not well stratified, to surface — twenty to fifty feet. 

Stratum first dissolves in water. It contains carbonate of lime, magnesia, 
iron, alumina, silex, sulphur, and some decomposed leaves, plants and sticks. 
Some pebbles are found. In contact with the water, quicksand is formed. 

The Hickory Plains, at the forks of the Great Miami and White Water, and 
also between Kilgore's Mill and New Richmond, are the results of heavy dilu- 
vial currents. 

In presenting these formations of the State, we have quoted from the experi- 
ence and conclusions of Charles Whittlesey, eminent as a geologist, and who 
was a member of the Ohio Geological Corps. 

Ohio's rank during the war. 

The patriotism of this State has been stanch, unswerving and bold, ever 
since a first settlement laid its corner-stone in the great Western wilder- 
ness. Its decisive measures, its earnest action, its noble constancy, have earned 
the laurels that designate it "a watchword for the nation." In the year 1860, 
Ohio had a population of 2,343,739. Its contribution of soldiers to the great 
conflict that was soon to surge over the land in scarlet terror, was apportioned 
310,000 men. In less than twenty-four hours after the President's proclama- 
tion and call for troops, the Senate had matured and carried a bill through, 
appropriating $1,000,000 for the purpose of placing the State on a war footing. 
The influences of party sentiments were forgotten, and united, the State 
unfurled the flag of patriotism. Before the bombardment of old Fort Sumter 
has fairly ceased its echoes, twenty companies were offered the Governor for 
immediate service. When the surrender was verified, the excitement was 
tumultuous. Militia officers telegraphed their willingness to receive prompt 
orders, all over the State. The President of Kenyon College — President 
Andrews — tendered his services by enlisting in the ranks. Indeed, three 
months before the outbreak of the war, he had expressed his readiness to the 
Governor to engage in service should there be occasion. He was the first citi- 
zen to make this offer. 

The Cleveland Grays, the Rover Guards, the State Fencibles, the Dayton 
Light Guards, the Governor's Guards, the Columbus Videttes and the Guthrie 
Grays — the best drilled and celebrated militia in the State — telegraphed to 
Columbus for orders. Chillicothe, Portsmouth and Circleville offered money 
and troops. Canton, Xenia, Lebanon, Lancaster, Springfield, Cincinnati,, 



166 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

Dayton, Cleveland, Toledo and other towns urged their assistance upon the State. 
Columbus began to look like a great army field. The troops were stationed 
wherever they could find quarters, and food in sufficient quantities was hard to 
procure. The Governor soon established a camp at Miamiville, convenient to 
Cincinnati. He intended to appoint Irvin McDowell, of the staff of Lieut. 
Gen. Scott, to the leading command, but the friends of Capt. McClellan became 
enthusiastic and appealed to the Governor, who decided to investigate his case. 
Being satisfied, he desired Capt. McClellan to come up to Columbus. But that 
officer was busy and sent Capt. Pope, of the regular army, in his stead. This 
gentleman did not suit Gov. Dennison. The friends of McClellan again set 
forth the high qualities of this officer, and Gov. Dennison sent an earnest 
request for an interview, which was granted, and resulted in the appointment 
of the officer as Major General of the Ohio militia. Directly thereafter, he 
received an invitation to take command of the Pennsylvania troops, but Ohio 
could not spare so valuable a leader. 

For three-years troops were soon called out, and their Generals were to be 
appointed by the President. Gov. Dennison advised at once with the War 
Department at Washington, and McClellan received his appointment as Major 
General in the regular army. 

Cincinnati and Louisville became alarmed lest Kentucky should espouse the 
Confederate cause, and those cities thus be left insecure against the inroads of a 
cruel foe. Four hundred and thirty-six miles of Ohio bordered Slave States. 
Kentucky and West Virginia were to be kept in check, but the Governor pro- 
claimed that not only should the border of Ohio be protected, but even beyond 
that would the State press the enemy. Marietta was garrisoned, and other river 
points rendered impregnable. On the 20th of May, 1861, official dispatches 
affirmed that troops were approaching Wheeling under the proclamation of 
Letcher. Their intention was to route the convention at Wheeling. 

Military orders were instantly given. Col. Steedman and his troops crossed 
at Marietta and crushed the disturbance at Parkersburg — swept into the country 
along the railroad, built bridges, etc. Col. Irvine crossed at Wheeling and 
united with a regiment of loyal Virginians. At the juncture of the two tracks 
at Grafton, the columns met, but the rebels had retreated in mad haste. The 
loyal troops followed, and, at Philippi, fought the first little skirmish of the war. 
The great railway lines were secured, and the Wheeling convention protected, 
and West Virginia partially secured for the Union. 

After preliminary arrangements, McClellan's forces moved in two columns 
upon the enemy at Laurel Hill. One remained in front, under Gen. Morris, 
while the other, under his own command, pushed around to Huttonsville, in 
their rear. Gen. Morris carried his orders through promptly, but McClellan 
was late. Rosecrans was left with McClellan's advance to fight the battle of 
Rich Mountain, unaided. Garnett being alarmed at the defeat of his outpost, 
retreated. McClellan was not in time to intercept him, but Morris continued 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 167 

the chase. Steedman overtook the rear-guard of Garnett's army at Carrick's 
Ford, where a sharp skirmish ensued, Garnett himself falling. The scattered 
portions of the rebel army escaped, and West Virginia was again free from 
armed rebels — and was the gift of Ohio through her State militia to the nation 
at the beginning of the war. 

At this period. Gen. McClellan was called to Washington. Gen. Rose- 
crans succeeded him, and the three-years troops left in the field after the dis- 
banding of the three-months men, barely sufficed to hold the country. He 
telegraphed Gov. Dennison to supply him immediately with re-enforcements, the 
request being made on the 8th of August. Already had the Confederate lead- 
ers realized the loss they had sustained in Western Virginia, and had dispatched 
their most valued General, Robert E. Lee, to regain the territory. Rosecrans 
again wrote : " If you, Governor of Indiana and Governor of Michigan, will 
lend your efforts to get me quickly 50,000 men, in addition to my present 
force, I think a blow can be struck which will save fighting the rifled-cannon 
batteries at Manassas. Lee is certainly at Cheat Mountain. Send all troops 
you can to Grafton." Five days thereafter, all the available troops in the 
West were dispatched to Fremont, Mo., and the plans of Rosecrans were 
foiled. 

Heavy re-enforcements had been sent to the column in Kanawha Valley 
under Gen. Cox. He became alarmed, and telegraphed to Gov. Dennison. 
Rosecrans again appealed to Gov. Dennison, that he might be aided in march- 
ing across the country against Floyd and Wise to Cox's relief, "I want to 
catch Floyd while Cox holds him in front." 

The response was immediate and effective. He was enabled to employ 
twenty-three Ohio regiments in clearing his department from rebels, securing 
the country and guarding the exposed railroads. With this achievement, the 
direct relation of the State administrations with the conduct and methods of 
campaigns terminated. The General Government had settled down to a sys- 
tem. Ohio was busy organizing and equipping regiments, caring for the sick 
and wounded, and sustaining her home strength. 

Gov. Dennison's staff officers were tendered better positions in the national 
service. Camps Dennison and Chase, one at Cincinnati and the ather at 
Columbus, were controlled by the United States authorities. A laboratory was 
established at Columbus for the supply of ammunition. During the fall and 
early winter, the Ohio troops suffered in Western Virginia. The people of 
their native State responded with blankets, clothing and other supplies. 

In January, 1862, David A. Tod entered upon the duties of Governor. 
The first feature of his administration was to care for the wounded at home, 
sent from Pittsburg Landing. A regular system was inaugurated to supply 
stores and clothing to the suffering at home and in the field. Agencies were 
established, and the great and good work was found to be most efficacious in 
alleviating the wretchedness consequent upon fearful battles. A. B. Lyman 

10 



168 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

had charge of aifairs in Cincinnati, and Royal Taylor held the same position 
in Louisville. J. C. Wetmore was stationed at Washington, F. W, Bingham 
at Memphis, Weston Flint at Cairo and St. Louis. Thus the care which Ohia 
extended over her troops at home and in the hattle-field, furnished a practical 
example to other States, and was the foundation of that commendable system 
all over the Union. Stonewall Jackson's sudden advent in the valley created 
the greatest consternation lest the safety of the capital be jeopardized, and the 
War Department called for more troops. Gov. Tod immediately issued a 
proclamation, and the people, never shrinking, responded heartily. At Cleve- 
land a large meeting was held, and 250 men enlisted, including 27 out of 32. 
students attending the law school. Fire bells rang out the alarm at Zanesville, 
a meeting was convened at 10 in the morning, and by 3 in the afternoon, 300' 
men had enlisted. Court was adjourned sine die, and the Judge announced 
that he and the lawyers were about to enter into military ranks. Only three 
unmarried men between the ages of eighteen and twenty-three were left in the 
town of Putnam. Five thousand volunteers reported at Camp Chase within 
two days after the proclamation. 

Again in June, the President called for troops, followed by yet another call. 
Under these calls, Ohio was to raise 74,000 men. The draft system was. 
advised to hasten and facilitate filling regiments. It has always been a repul- 
sive measure. To save sections from this proceeding, enormous sums were 
ofiered to induce men to volunteer, and thus fill the quota. 

Counties, townships, towns and individuals, all made bids and urged the 
rapid enlistment of troops. The result was, that the regiments were filled rap- 
idly, but not in sufficient numbers to prevent the draft. Twenty thousand four 
hundred and twenty-seven men were yet lacking, and the draft was ordered, 
September 15. At the close of the year, Ohio was ahead of her calls. Late 
in the fall, the prospect was disheartening. The peninsula campaign had failed. 
The Army of Northern Virginia had been hurled back nearly to Washington. 
The rebels had invaded Maryland ; Cincinnati and Louisville were threatened,, 
and the President had declared his intention to abolish slavery, as a war meas- 
ure. During the first part of 1862, artillery, stores and supplies were carried 
away mysteriously, from the Ohio border ; then little squads ventured over the 
river to plunder more openly, or to burn a bridge or two. The rebel bands 
came swooping down upon isolated supply trains, sending insolent roundabout 
messages regarding their next day's intentions. Then came invasions of our 
lines near Nashville, capture of squads of guards within sight of camp, the seizure 
of Gallatin. After Mitchell had entered Northern Alabama, all manner of depre- 
dations were committed before his very eyes. These were attributed to John 
Morgan's Kentucky cavalry. He and his men, by the middle of 1862, were 
as active and dangerous as Lee or Beauregard and their troops. Morgan was a 
native of Alabama, but had lived in Kentucky since boyhood. His father was 
large slave-owner, who lived in the center of the "Blue Grass Country." His 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 169 

life had been one of wild dissipation, adventure and recklessness, although in 
his own family he had the name of being most considerate. The men who fol- 
lowed him were accustomed to a dare-devil life. They formed and independent 
band, and dashed madly into the conflict, wherever and whenever inclination 
prompted. Ohio had just raised troops to send East, to assist in the overthrow 
of Stonewell Jackson. She had overcome her discouragements over failures, 
for the prospects were brightening. Beauregard had evacuated Corinth ; Mem- 
phis had fallen ; Buell was moving toward Chattanooga ; Mitchell's troops held 
Northern Tennessee and Northern Alabama ; Kentucky was virtually in the 
keeping of the home guards and State military board. And now, here was 
Morgan, creating confusion in Kentucky by his furious raids ! On the 11th of 
July, the little post of Tompkinsville fell. He issued a call for the Kentuckians 
to rise in a body. He marched toward Lexington, and the southern border of 
Ohio was again in danger. Cincinnati was greatly excited. Aid was sent to 
Lexington and home guards were ready for duty. Morgan was not prominent 
for a day or so, but he was not idle. By the 9th of July, he held possession of 
Tompkinsville and Glasgow ; by the 11th, of Lebanon. On the 13th, he 
entered Harraldsburg ; Monday morning he was within fifteen miles of Frank- 
fort. He had marched nearly 400 miles in eight days. Going on, toward 
Lexington, he captured the telegraph operator at Midway, and his messages 
also I He was now aware of the plans of the Union armies at Lexington, 
Louisville, Cincinnati and Frankfort. In the name of the operator, he sent 
word that Morgan was driving in the pickets at Frankfort ! Now that he 
had thrown his foes off guard, he rested his men a couple of days. He 
decided to let Lexington alone, and swept down on Cynthiana, routing a few 
hundred loyal Kentucky cavalrymen, capturing the gun and 420 prisoners, and 
nearly 300 horses. Then he was off to Paris ; he marched through Winchester, 
Richmond, Crab Orchard and Somerset, and again crossed the Cumberland River. 
He started with 900 men and returned with 1,200, having captured and paroled 
nearly as many, besides destroying all the Government arms and stores in seven- 
teen towns. The excitement continued in Cincinnati. Two regiments were 
hastily formed, for emergencies,- known as Cincinnati Reserves. Morgan's raid 
did not reach the city, but it demonstrated to the rebel forces what might be 
accomplished in the " Blue Grass " region. July and August were passed in 
gloom. Bragg and Buell were both watchful, and Chattanooga had not been 
taken. Lexington was again menaced, a battle fought, and was finally deserted 
because it could not be held. 

Louisville was now in danger. The banks sent their specie away. Railroad 
companies added new guards. 

September 1, Gen. Kirby Smith entered Lexington, and dispatched Heath 
with about six thousand men against Cincinnati and Covington. John Morgan 
joined him. The rebels rushed upon the borders of Ohio. The failure at Rich- 
mond only added deeper apprehension. Soon Kirby Smith and his regiments 



170 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

occupied a position where only a few unmanned siege guns and the Ohio 
prevented his entrance through Covington into the Queen City. The city was 
fully armed, and Lew. Wallace's arrival to take command inspired all with 
fresh courage. And before the people were hardly aware that danger was so 
near, the city was proclaimed under strict martial law. " Citizens for labor, 
soldiers for battle." 

There was no panic, because the leaders were confident. Back of Newport 
and Covington breastworks, riflepits and redoubts had been hastily thrown up, 
and pickets were thrown out. From Cincinnati to Covington extended a pon- 
ton bridge. Volunteers marched into the city and those already in service 
were sent to the rescue. Strict military law was now modified, and the city 
being secured, some inconsiderate ones expressed themselves as being outraged 
with " much ado about nothing." But Gen. Wallacedid not cease his vigilance. 
And Smith's force began to move up. One or two skirmishes ensued. The 
city was again excited. September 11 was one of intense suspense. But 
Smith did not attack in force. He was ordered to join Bragg. On the Mon- 
day following, the citizens of Cincinnati returned to their avocations. In the 
spring of 1863, the State was a trifle discouraged. Her burdens had been 
heavy, and she was weary. Vicksburg was yet in the hands of the enemy. 
Rosecrans had not moved since his victory at Stone River. There had been 
fearful slaughter about Fredericksburg. 

But during July, 1863, Ohio was aroused again by Bragg's command to 
Morgan, to raid Kentucky and capture Louisville. On the 3d of July, he was 
in a position to invade Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky. He continued his depre- 
dations, bewildering the militia with his movements. His avowed intention 
was to burn Indianapolis and " take Cincinnati alive." Morgan's purposes 
were never clear. It was his audacious and sudden dashes, here and there, 
which gave him success. Before Cincinnati was aware, he was at Harrison — 
13th of July. He expected to meet the forces of Burnside and Judah, and to 
cut his way through. His plans here, as everywhere, were indefinable, and he 
succeeded in deceiving everybody. While printers in Cincinnati were setting 
up " reports " as to his whereabouts, he was actually marching through the sub- 
urbs, near troops enough to devour them, and yet not encountered by a single 
picket ! They fed their horses within sight of Camp Dennison. At 4 
o'clock that day, they were within twenty-eight miles of Cincinnati — having 
marched more than ninety miles in thirty-five hours. 

The greatest chagrin was expressed, that Morgan had so easily eluded the 
great military forces. A sudden dash was made to follow him. There was a 
universal bolting of doors, burying of valuables, hiding of horses, etc., all along 
the route of the mad cavalryman and his 2,000 mounted men. They plundered 
beyond all comparison. They made a principle of it. On the 14th of July, 
he was feeding his horses near Dennison ; he reached the ford at Bufiington 
Island on the evening of the 18th ; he had encountered several little skirmishes, 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 171 

but he had marched through at his own will, mostly ; all the troops of Kentucky 
had been outwitted. The Indiana forces had been laughed to scorn. The 
50,000 Ohio militia had been as straws in his way. The intrepid band would 
soon be upon friendly soil, leaving a blackened trail behind. But Judah was 
up and marching after him, Hobson followed and Col. Runkle was north of 
him. The local militia in his advance began to impede the way. Near Pome- 
roy, a stand was made. Morgan found militia posted everywhere, but he suc- 
ceeded in running the gantlet, so far as to reach Chester. He should have 
hastened to cross the ford. Fortunately, he paused to breathe his horses and 
secure a guide. The hour and a half thus lost was the first mistake Morgan is 
known to have made in his military career. They reached Portland, and only 
a little earthwork, guarded by about 300 men, stood between him and safety. 
His men were exhausted, and he feared to lead them to a night attack upon a 
position not understood perfectly ; he would not abandon his wagon train, nor 
his wounded ; he would save or lose all. As Morgan was preparing next 
morning, having found the earthworks deserted through the night, Judah came 
up. He repulsed the attack at first, capturing Judah's Adjutant General, and 
ordering him to hold the force on his front in check. He was not able to join 
his own company, until it was in full retreat. Here Lieut. O'Neil, of the Fifth 
Indiana, made an impulsive charge, the lines were reformed, and up the Chester 
road were Hobson's gallant cavalrymen, who had been galloping over three 
States to capture this very Morgan ! And now the tin-clad gunboats steamed 
up and opened fire. The route was complete, but Morgan escaped with 1,200 
men ! Seven hundred men were taken prisoners, among them Morgan's brother, 
Cols. Ward, Duke and Hufiman. The prisoners were brought to Cincinnati, 
while the troops went after the fugitive. He was surrounded by dangers ; his 
men were exhausted, hunted down ; skirmishes and thrilling escapes marked a 
series of methods to escape — his wonderful sagacity absolutely brilliant to the 
very last — which was his capture, on the 26th, with 346 prisoners and 
400 horses and arms. It may be added, that after several months of con- 
finement, Morgan and six prisoners escaped, on the 27th of November. Again 
was he free to raid in the " Blue Grass " country. 

John Brough succeeded Gov. Tod January 11, 1864. His first prominent 
work was with the Sanitary Commission. In February, of the same year, the 
President called for more troops. The quota of Ohio was 51,465 men. The 
call of March added 20,995. And in July was a third demand for 50,792. In 
December, the State was ordered to raise 26,027. The critical period of the 
war was evidently approaching. Gov. Brough instituted a reformation in the 
"promotion system " of the Ohio troops. He was, in many cases, severe in his 
measures. He ignored " local great men " and refused distinction as a bribe. 
The consequence was that he had many friends and some enemies. The acute- 
ness of his policy was so strong, and his policy so just, that, after all his severe 
administration, he was second to no statesman in the nation during the struggle. 



172 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

Ohio during the war was most active in her relief and aid societies. The most 
noted and extensive organization was the Cincinnati Branch of the United 
States Sanitary Commission. The most efficient organization was the Soldiers' 
Aid Society of Northern Ohio. 

When the happy tidings swept over the land that peace was proclaimed, an 
echo of thanksgiving followed the proclamation. The brave sons of Ohio 
returned to their own soil — those who escaped the carnage. But 'mid the 
rejoicing there was deepest sadness, for a fragment only remained of that brave 
army which had set out sturdily inspired with patriotism. 

A BRIEF MENTION OF PROMINENT OHIO GENERALS. 

George Briton McClellan, the first General appointed in Ohio, was born 
December 3, 1826, in Philadelphia. His father was a physician of high stand- 
ing and Scottish descent. Young George was in school in Philadelphia, and 
entered West Point at the age of sixteen. At the age of twenty, he was a bre- 
vet Second Lieutenant, tracing lines of investment before Vera Cruz, under the 
supervision of Capt. R. E. Lee, First Lieut. P. G. T. Beauregard, Second Lieut. 
G. W. Smith. At the close of the Mexican war, old Col. Totten reported in 
favor of them all to Winfield Scott. He had charge of an exploring expedition 
to the mountains of Oregon and Washington, beginning with the Cascade Range. 
This was one of a series of Pacific Railway explorations. Returning to Wash- 
ington, he was detailed to visit the West Indies and secretly select a coaling sta- 
tion for the United States Navy. He was dispatched by Jefferson Davis, 
Secretary of War, to Europe, with instructions to take full reports of the organ- 
ization of military forces connected with the Crimean war. This work elicited 
entire satisfaction. He returned in January, 1857, resigned as regular army 
officer, and was soon installed as engineer of Illinois Central Railroad. In 1860, 
he was President of the Ohio & Mississippi. He removed to Cincinnati, where 
he was at the opening of the war. 

William Starke Rosecrans was born September 6, 1819, in Delaware County, 
Ohio. His people were from Amsterdam. He was educated at West Point. 
When the war opened, he espoused the cause of the Union with enthusiastic 
zeal, and was appointed by McClellan on his staff" as Engineer. June 9, he 
was Chief Engineer of the State under special law. Soon thereafter, he was 
Colonel of the Twenty-third Ohio, and assigned to the command of Camp 
Chase, Columbus. On May 16, his commission was out as Brigadier General 
in the United States Army. This reached him and he was speedily sum- 
moned to active service, under Gen. McClellan. After the battle of Rich Moun- 
tain, he was promoted to the head of the department. 

In April, 1862, he was succeeded by Fremont, and ordered to Wash- 
ington to engage in immediate service for the Secretary of War. About the 
15th of May, he was ordered to Gen. Halleck, before Corinth. He was 
relieved from his command December 9, 1864. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 173 

Ulysses S. Grant, whose history we cannot attempt to give in these pages, 
was born on the banks of the Ohio, at Point Pleasant, Clermont Co., Ohio, 
April 27, 1822. He entered West Point in 1839. 

" That the son of a tanner, poor and unpretending, without influential friends 
until his performance had won them, ill-used to the world and its ways, should 
rise — not suddenly, in the first blind worship of helpless ignorance which made 
any one who understood regimental tactics illustrious in advance for what he 
was going to do, not at all for what he had done — but slowly, grade by grade, 
through all the vicissitudes of constant service and mingled blunders and suc- 
cess, till, at the end of four years' war he stood at the head of our armies, 
orowned by popular acclaim our greatest soldier, is a satisfactory answer to 
criticism and a sufiicient vindication of greatness. Success succeeds." 

" We may reason on the man's career ; we may prove that at few stages has 
he shown personal evidence of marked ability ; we may demonstrate his mis- 
takes ; we may swell the praises of his subordinates. But after all, the career 
stands wonderful, unique, worthy of study so long as the nation honors her 
henefactors, or the State cherishes the good fame of the sons who contributed 
most to her honor." 

Lieut. Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman was another Ohio contribution to 
the great Union war. He was born at Lancaster February 8, 1820. He 
entered West Point in June, 1836. His " march to the sea " has fully brought 
out the details of his life, since they were rendered interesting to all, and we 
refrain from repeating the well-known story. 

Philip H. Sheridan was born on the 6th of March, 1831, in Somerset, 
Perry Co., Ohio. He entered West Point in 1848. During the war, his 
career was brilliant. His presence meant victory. Troops fighting under his 
command were inspired. Gen. Rosecrans said of him, "He fights, he fights." 
A staff officer once said, "He is an emphatic human syllable." 

Maj. Gen. James B. McPherson was born in Sandusky County, town of 
Clyde, November 14, 1828. 

Maj. Gen. Q. A. Gillmore was born February 28, 1825, at Black River, 
Lorain Co., Ohio. 

Maj. Gen. Irvin McDowell was born at Franklinton, Ohio, October 15, 
1818. 

Maj. Gen. Don Carlos Buell was born near Marietta on the 23d of March, 
1818. His grandfather on the maternal side was one of the first settlers of 
Cincinnati. 

Maj. Gen. 0. M. Mitchell was a native of Kentucky, but a resident of 
Ohio from the age of four years. 

Maj. Gen. Robert C. Schenck was born October 4, 1809, in Franklin, 
Warren Co., Ohio. 

Maj. Gen. James A.' Garfield, was born in Orange, Cuyahoga Co., Ohio, 
November 19, 1881. 



174 ISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO, 

Maj. Gen. Jacob D. Cox was born in Canada in 1828, and removed to 
Ohio in 1846. 

Maj. Gen, James B. Steedman was born in Pennsylvania July 30, 1818, 
and removed to Toledo in 1861. 

Maj. Gen. David S. Stanley was born in Wayne County, Ohio, June 1, 
1828. 

Maj. Gen. George Crook was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, Septem- 
ber 8, 1828. 

Maj. Gen. Mortimer D. Leggett was born in New York April 19, 1831, 
and emigrated to Ohio, in 1847. 

Brevet Maj. Gen. John C. Tidball was born in Virginia, but removed while 
a mere lad to Ohio with his parents. 

Brevet Maj. Gen. John W. Fuller was born in England in 1827. He 
removed to Toledo in 1858. 

Brevet Maj. Gen. Manning F. Force was born in Washington, D. C, on 
the 17th of December, 1824. He became a citizen of Cincinnati. 

Brevet Maj. Gen. Henry B. Banning was born in Knox County, Ohio, 
November 10, 1834. 

We add the names of Brevet Maj. Gens. Erastus B. Tyler, Thomas H. 
Ewing, Charles R. Woods, August V. Kautz, Rutherford B. Hayes, Charles 
C. Walcutt, Kenner Garrard, Hugh Ewing, Samuel Beatty, James S. Robinson, 
Joseph W. Keifer, Eli Long, William B. Woods, John W. Sprague, Benjamin 
P. Runkle, August Willich, Charles Griffin, Henry J. Hunt, B. W. Brice. 

Brig. Gens. Robert L. McCook, William H. Lytle, William Leroy 
Smith, C. P. Buckingham, Ferdinand Van Derveer, George P. Este, Joel A. 
Dewey, Benjamin F. Potts, Jacob Ammen, Daniel McCook, J. W. Forsyth, 
Ralph P. Buckland, William H. Powell, John G. Mitchell, Eliakim P. Scam- 
mon, Charles G Harker, J. W. Reilly, Joshua W. Sill, N. C. McLean, Will- 
iam T. H. Brooks, George W. Morgan, John Beatty, William W. Burns, John 
S. Mason, S. S. Carroll, Henry B. Carrington, M. S. Wade, John P. Slough, 
T. K. Smith. 

Brevet Brig. Gens. C. B. Ludlow, Andrew Hickenlooper, B. D. 
Fearing, Henry F. Devol, Israel Garrard, Daniel McCoy, W, P. Richardson, 
G. F. Wiles, Thomas M. Vincent, J. S. Jones, Stephen B. Yeoman, F. W. 
Moore, Thomas F. Wilder, Isaac Sherwood, C. H. Grosvenor, Moses E. 
Walker, R. N. Adams, E. B. Eggleston, I. M. Kirby. 

We find numerous other names of Brevet Brigadier Generals, mostly of late 
appointments, and not exercising commands in accordance with their brevet 
rank, which we omit quoting through lack of space. They are the names of 
men of rare abilities, and in many cases of brilliant achievements. 

In looking over the "War Record of Ohio," we find the State a great 
leader in men of valor and heroic deeds. It was the prolific field of military 
geniuses. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 175 

Ohio was draped with the garb of mourning at the close of the war. Her 
human sacrifice in behalf of the nation had been bitter. There were tears and 
heart-aches all over the land. Her ranks were swept by a murderous fire, from 
which they never flinched, and many ofiicers fell. 

Col. John H. Patrick will be remembered as opening the battle of Lookout 
Mountain. He fell mortally wounded, during the Atlanta campaign, May 
15, 1862, while actively engaged. He was struck by a canister shot, and 
expired half a hour thereafter. 

Col. John T. Toland, in July, 1863, was placed in command of a mounted 
brigade, including his regiment, and was instructed to destroy the Virginia & 
Tennessee Railroad. He reached Wytheville, Va., on the afternoon of the 
18th of July. The rebels were safely intrenched in the house, and poured a 
galling fire into the national troops. Col. Toland was on horseback, at the 
head of his command. A sharpshooter sent a bullet with fatal certainty, and 
he fell on the neck of his horse, but was instantly caught by his Orderly 
Sergeant, who heard the fervent words : " My horse and my sword to my 
mother." 

Lieut. Col. Barton S. Kyle accompanied his regiment to the battle of Pitts- 
burg Landing. The regiment was forced back, though resisting bravely. 
Lieut. Col. Kyle was at his post of duty, encouraging his men, when he received 
a bullet in his right breast. He survived five hours. 

Col. William G. Jones was engaged in the battle of Chickamauga, June, 
1863. His regiment, the Thirty-sixth Ohio, was included in Turchin's Brigade 
of the Fourteenth Corps. He wrote in his pocket memoranda : " Off to the 
left ; merciful Father, have mercy on me and my regiment, and protect us from 
injury and death " — at 12 o'clock. At 5 that afternoon, he was fatally wounded 
and expired at 7 that same evening, on the battle-field His remains were 
taken by the rebels, but in December, 1863, they were exhumed and interred 
in Spring Grove Cemetery, Cincinnati. 

Col. Fred. C. Jones held command of the Tenth Brigade, in October, 1862, 
marching from Wild Cat, Ky., to Nashville, through a perpetual skirmish, 
During the battle of Stone River, Col. Jones' regiment, the Twenty-fourth, was 
on the front and left of the line. During the afternoon, when the rebel assault 
upon the left became furious. Col. Jones ordered his men to lie down and hold 
fire, which was obeyed. They rose to pour a deadly volley into the rebel ranks, 
and rush forward in a fierce charge. The capture of an entire rebel regiment was 
thus effected, but Col. Jones was shot in the right side. He was carried to the 
rear. " I know it ; I am dying now ; pay no attention to me, but look after 
my wounded men." He survived about ten hours. His remains are buried in 
Spring Grove, Cincinnati. 

Col. Lorin Andrews went with his command to Western Virginia, where 
he succumbed to exposure and severe duty. He was removed to his home, 
Gambler, Ohio, where he died surrounded by friends September 18, 1861. 



17 G HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO 

Col. Minor Milliken was sent to repel the attacks of the rebels at the rear. 
He led a superb cavalry charge against the enemy, vastly superior in numbers, 
and was cut off with a small portion of his regiment. He disdained to sur- . 
render, and ordered his men to cut their way out. A hand-to-hand conflict 
ensued. Col. Milliken, being an expert swordsman, was able to protect himself 
with his saber. While parrying the strokes of his assailant, another shot him. 
The regiment, again charging, recovered his body, stripped of sword, purse and 
watch. 

Col. George P. Webster, with his regiment, the Ninety-eighth, left Steu- 
benville for Covington, Ky., August 23, 1862, marching from that point to Lex- 
ington and Louisville. He was placed at the command of the Thirty-fourth 
Brigade, Jackson's division, Cooke's corps. He fell in the battle of Perryville, 
and died on the field of battle. 

Col. Leander Stem was appointed Colonel of the One Hundred and First 
Ohio Infantry August 30, 1862. His premonitions that he should fall during 
his first regular engagement proved too true. As the army was advancing on 
Murfreesboro, the engagement of Knob Gap occurred, when Col. Stem's regi- 
ment charged and took a rebel battery, with several prisoners. The army 
closed around Murfreesboro, and on the evening of the 30th, the One Hun- 
dred and First was engaged in demonstrations against the enemy. Next 
morning, the battle of Stone River began in earnest. When Col. Stem's regi- 
ment began to waver, he called out: " Stand by the flag now, for the good 
old State of Ohio ! " and instantly fell, fatally wounded. 

Lieut. Col. Jonas D. Elliott held his position in May, 1863. During the 
summer of 1864, he commanded the left wing of the regiment at Dodsonville, 
Ala.; in September, he was sent after Wheeler, and was ordered into camp at 
Decatur. On the 23d, he was dispatched to Athens, to participate in the attack 
of Gen. Forrest, of the rebels. Col. Elliott was sent out, with 300 men, and 
being surrounded by Gen. Forrest, with vastly superior numbers, a forced resist- 
ance enabled them to sustain their own ground, until a fresh brigade of rebels 
arrived, under Gen, Warren. This officer instructed one of his men to shoot 
Lieut. Col. Elliott, and a moment later he fell. He lingered nineteen days. 

Col. Joseph L. Kirby Smith took command of the Forty-third Ohio Regi- 
ment. He fell at the battle of Corinth, under Rosecrans. 

Lieut. Col. James W. Shane fell, June 27, 1864, in an assault upon the 
enemy's works at Kenesaw. He survived but forty minutes. 

Col. Augustus H. Coleman displayed the abilities of a successful commander. 
He was in the first charge on the bridge across Antietaf Creek. He was 
fatally wounded. His last words were inquiries regarding his men. 

Col. J. W. Lowe commanded the Twelfth Ohio, and was ordered to assist 
the Tenth in the battle of Carnifex Ferry. Cheering his men, in the thickest 
of the fight, a rifle ball pierced his forehead, and he fell dead — the first field 
officer from Ohio killed in battle in the war for the Union. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 177 

Lieut. Col. Moses F. Wooster was engaged with his regiment, the One Hun- 
dred and First Ohio, at Perryville. He was mortally wounded on the 31st 
of December, 1862, in the grand effort to stem the tide of defeat at Stone 
River. 

The list of staff officers we refrain from giving, through lack of space. 

At the opening of the war, William Dennison was Governor of Ohio. David 
Tod succeeded him. John Brough was the third War Governor. 

Secretary Edwin M. Stanton was one of the most popular war Ministers. 
He was born in Steubenville, Ohio, in 1815 ; he was engaged in the United 
States Circuit Court, in 1860, in a leading law suit, at Cincinnati, known as the 
Manny and McCormick reaper trial ; on the 20th of January, 1862, he was 
appointed Secretary of War by Mr. Lincoln. 

Ex-Secretary Salmon P. Chase's public services in Ohio have already been 
mentioned in these pages. In 1861, he was appointed Secretary of the Treas- 
ury, in Mr. Lincoln's cabinet. 

United States Senator B. F. Wade made his reputation in Ohio. This 
Senator of the State stood at the head of the Committee on the Conduct of the 
War throughout its duration. 

United States Senator John Sherman was a leading member of the Finance 
•Committee, during the war. For some time he was its Chairman. 

Jay Cooke was the financial agent of the Government, furnishing money for 
the payment of the troops. He was born in Portland, Huron Co., Ohio. 

In our brief review of the war record of Ohio, we have omitted a vast 
amount of detail information that would prove interesting to our readers. We 
believe we have been accurate in whatever we have given, taking as our authority, 
that accepted "encyclopedia" of Ohio war facts — Whitelaw Reid, who has pub- 
lished a valuable volume on the subject. 

SOME DISCUSSED SUBJECTS. 

It may be well in glancing over the achievements of Ohio, her momentous 
labors and grand successes, to refer to the Ordinance of 1787, more minutely 
than we have done, in relation to many events, since its inherent principles are 
not only perpetuated in the laws of the entire Northwest, but have since been 
woven into the general Constitution of the L^nited States. It made permanent 
the standard and character of immigration, social culture and political and edu- 
cational institutions. It was thoroughly antislavery and denounced involuntary 
servitude, which was sanctioned in every other State at that time, with the 
exception of Massachusetts. It protected religion and property. As late as 
1862, Gen. William Henry Harrison, Governor of Indiana, called a convention 
for the purpose of considering the slavery question, and the feasibility of intro- 
ducing the system in the new States and Territories being formed. There 
was at this time a spirited contest, and Illinois, Indiana and possibly Ohio, 
barely escaped a decision that a full support should be given its introduction 



178 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

into these States. Its adoption was based upon certain specifications and 
limits of time, which upon a deeper consideration was deemed perplexing and 
impractical. 

An animated discussion arose not long since, regarding the correct author- 
ship of this important ordinance, and its chief worker in gaining its sanction 
by Congress. 

Mr. Webster ascribed its authorship to Mathew Dane, of Massachusetts, 
which statement was immediately refuted by Mr. Benton, of Mississippi, who 
laid claim to it as the birthright of Thomas Jefferson, of Virginia. 

It has been almost impossible to obtain accurate reports of the actions of the 
old Continental Congress, from the fact that its meetings were held in secret, 
and any reports either narrated or shown in schedules or lists, were deemed a 
striking lack of trust on the part of the person who furnished the information. 
It was sufl&cient that its acts and conclusions be proclaimed without any prelude 
or reasoning process. Hence it has been difficult to obtain early Congressional 
documents. But it has been conclusively proven that the great motive power 
in gaining the approbation of the Ordinance of 1787, Avas neither Dane nor 
Jefferson, but Dr. Cutler. 

He arrived at New York, July 5 of that year, after a journey from Ipswich, 
Mass., in his sulky. He obtained lodgings at the "Plow and Harrow," and 
saw that his good horse was properly cared for and fed at the same place. 
Congress was then in session, and he had come on a mission for the Ohio Com- 
pany, to negotiate their grant and its privileges in the new Territory of Ohio. 
He remained in New York three weeks, constantly engaged in the work vital to 
the interests of the future great State. But he secured the installment of the 
principles deemed the corner-stone of a future powerful State constitution. Mr. 
Poole, Librarian of the Chicago Public Library, searched assiduously for con- 
clusive proof of Dr. Cutler's right to this honor, and in the North American 
Review, Vol. 122, this is emphatically set forth with substantiating proof under 
his signature. 

Other facts have been discussed and proven at a very recent date, relative 
to the State of Ohio, which heretofore have been omitted, and nearly lost from 
the historic thread which unites the present with the past. 

The first settlement of the lands of the Northwest is necessarily surrounded 
with interest. But those were exciting, troublesome times, and a few links 
were passed over lightly. However, the years are not so far removed in the 
past but the line may be traced. 

Mr. Francis W. Miller, of Cincinnati, has supplied some missing chapters. 
The earliest documentary trace extant, regarding the southern settlement at 
Cincinnati, is an agreement of partnership between Denman, Filson and Pat- 
terson, in the fractional section of land to which the city of Cincinnati was 
originally limited. It bears the date August 25, 1788. This was entered ou 
the records of Hamilton County, Ohio, October 6, 1803. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 179 

A letter from Jonathan Dayton to the Hon. Judge Symmes, dated Septem- 
"ber 26, 1789, says: "You have been selling your lands, I am told, for two 
shillings specie, the acre. The price at this moment is, and seems to be, and 
undoubtedly is, a good one ; but as much cannot be said of it when you find 
hereafter that in consequence of the rise of certificates, another acre, in another 
payment, may cost you in specie two shillings and sixpence." 

A letter from John C. Symmes to Capt. Dayton, dated April 30, 1790, 
says: "The land in the reserved township is held at much too high a price. 
Not a foot of land beyond the five-acre lots will sell. Five shillings, specie, 
or two dollars in certificates, is the utmost they will bring, and they will rarely 
sell at that." 

This state of affairs was in a large degree brought about by the breaking-up 
of North Bend and a removal of the town to Fort Washington, or Cincinnati, 
later. A search through the old letters and other preserved documents prove 
that North Bend was at one time the beginning of the great city on the Ohio, 
rather than Cincinnati. Judge Symmes wrote. May 18, 1789: " I have not as 
yet been able to make a decisive choice of a plat for the city, though I have 
found two pieces of ground, both eligible, but not upon the present plan of a 
regular square. It is a question of no little moment and difiiculty to deter- 
mine which of these spots is preferable, in point of local situation. I know 
that at first thought men will decide in favor of that on the Ohio, from the 
supposition that the Ohio will command more trade and business than the 
Miami. * * * ;g^^ ^^ ^^ ^^^e built on the Miami, the settlers 
throughout the purchase would find it very convenient." 

Another of the earliest selections of town sites was adjacent to the most 
southerly point of what is now Delhi Township. To this the name of South 
Bend was given. Judge Symmes reports November 4, 1790, of this place, 
over forty framed and hewed-log two-story houses, since the preceding spring. 
Ensign Luce is said to have taken his troops to Nor.th Bend, but decided to 
remove to Cincinnati, on account of the object of his affections having settled 
there — the wife of a settler. But this story is refuted by contradictory evi- 
dence from Judge Symmes' letters, which illustrate the fact that the post of 
North Bend was abandoned by Ensign Luce and his men in consequence of a 
panic, caused by Indian attacks. The removal of the troops caused a general 
decline of the town. Again, history and letters from the same eminent Judge, 
assert that Fort Washington was completed and garrisoned by Maj. Doughty 
before the close of that same year, and was begun by him during the summer, 
that Ensign Luce must have still been at his post at the bend at that time. It 
has been, therefore, recently accepted that the traditional "black eyes" and 
the "Indian panic," had nothing to do with the founding of Cincinnati, and 
that the advantages of the position gained the victory. 

Cincinnati has advanced, not only in prosperity and culture, but in national 
significance. Our readers must have observed, in perusing these pages, that 



180 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

from this city and the State which it represents, have emanated some of the 
superior intellects which have used their wise faculties and talents, tempered by 
a wise judgment, in behalf of the American Union. 

The originality of the Senecas and Wyandots have been debated at some 
length, while others have called the tribes the same, having two branches. We 
have searched the earlier records and have found an authenticated account of 
these two tribes. 

The Indian tribes of Ohio were originally bold, fierce and stalwart. The 
country watered by the Sandusky and its tributaries was frequented by the 
Wyandot tribe, who came from the north side of the St. Lawrence River. The 
Senecas were blood relatives of this tribe. Both tribes were numbered by the 
thousands. A war originated between them, in this manner : A Wyandot 
chief desired to wed the object of his afi'ections, who laughed him to scorn, 
because he had taken no scalps, and was no warrior " to speak of." To change 
her opinion, he led out a party, and falling upon a number of Senecas, slaugh- 
tered them mercilessly, that he might hasten to the side of his dusky belle, with 
his trophies. This act inaugurated hostilities, which extended through a century. 
The Wyandots began to fear extermination, and, gathering their entire effects^ 
the natives escaped to Green Bay, and settled in several villages. But the Sen- 
ecas made up a war party and followed them, killing many Wyandots and burn- 
ing some of their villages. They then returned to Canada. Soon thereafter, 
they secured fire-arms from the French. Again they followed the Wyandots, 
firing their guns into their huts, and frightening them severely. They did not 
succeed as well as they expected. But the third party nearly exterminated the 
villages, because the young warriors Avere nearly all gone to war with the Foxes. 
The few at home escaping, promised to return with the Senecas, but desired 
two days for preparation. The Wyandots sent word to the two villages left 
undisturbed, and held a consultation. They decided to go as near the Senecas 
as possible, unobserved, and discover their real motive. They found them feast- 
ing on two roasted Wyandots, shouting over their victory. They danced nearly 
all night, and then fell asleep. A little before daylight, the Wyandots fell on 
them, leaving not one to carry back the news. 

The Wyandots then procured guns, and began to grow formidable. They 
set out to return to their own country, and proceeded on their way as far as 
Detroit, where they met a party of Senecas, on the lake. A fierce conflict 
ensued, and the Wyandots beheld the Senecas fall, to the last man, suffering 
fearful carnage themselves. They soon settled in this part of the world, their 
principal village being on the Sandusky. Northwestern Ohio was particularly 
dangerous with new Indian tribes, and the Wyandots were cruelly aggressive. 
The death of their chief, and their total defeat by Harrison, destroyed their 
power forever. 

On the 29th of September, 1817, a treaty was held, at the foot of the rapids 
of the Miami of Lake Erie, between Lewis Cass and Duncan McArthur, 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 181 

Commissioners of the United States, and the sachems, chiefs and warriors of the 
Wyandot, Seneca, Delaware, Shawnee, Potawattomie, Ottawa and Chippewa 
nations. All their lands in Ohio were ceded to the United States forever. 

There was really not a Seneca in the Seneca nation. They were chiefly 
Cayugas, Mohawks, Onondagas, Tuscarawas, Wyandots and Oneidas. But the 
Mingoes were originally Cayugas, and their chief was the celebrated Logan. 
After the murder of his family by the whites, the Mingoes were scattered over 
the territory northwest of the Ohio. 

The notorious Simon Girty was adopted by the Senecas. Girty's name was 
a terror and fiendish horror for many years. He not only led the Indians in 
their atrocities, but he added barbarism to their native wickedness. 

CONCLUSION. 

When peace was proclaimed, after the surrender of Gen. Robert E. Lee to 
Gen. U. S. Grant, the volunteer troops disbanded, and a return to home indus- 
tries instituted, Ohio, like many other States, gave direct attention to the inter- 
ests of returned soldiers. The thrift of the State was augmented by a spasmodic, 
and thereafter recognized as a fictitious, demand for products, commercial and 
industrial pursuits redoubled their forces. But the great wave of stagnation 
swept over this fair land — the re-action of a war excitement. Laborers were 
many, but wages were inadequate. Deeper and deeper settled this lethargy — 
called by many "hard times" — until the wheels of commercial life revolved 
slowly, and from the workshops and the factories went up the echoes of priva- 
tion and distress. There was no famine, no fever, no epidemic, it was simply 
exhaustion. In the larger cities there was much suffering. Idle people loitered 
about, barely seeking employment, the task seeming worse than hopeless. 

During the years 1870, 1871 and 1872, the stringent measures brought 
about by the depressed state of business retarded any material advancement in 
general matters. The years 1873-74 were marked by a preceptible improve- 
ment, and a few factories were established, while larger numbers were employed 
in those already founded. The year 1875 was under the direction of a Demo- 
cratic Legislature. It was marked in many respects by a "reverse motion " in 
many laws and regulations. 

The Legislature which convened in 1876, January 3, was Republican in the 
main. It repealed the " Geghan Law " passed by the preceding body. At 
the time of its adoption, there was the most intense feeling throughout the State, 
the charge being made that it was in the interests of the Catholics. Among 
the general enactments were laws re-organizing the government of the State insti- 
tutions, which the previous Legislature had ordered according to their own belief 
to follow new doctrines. The oflBce of Comptroller of the Treasury was abolished. 
The powers of municipal corporations to levy taxes was limited, and their 
authority to incur debts was limited. Furthermore, this body prohibited any 
municipal appropriations, unless the actual money was in the Treasury to meet 



182 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

the same in full. A law was passed for the protection of children under fourteen 
years of age, exhibited in public shows. 

The temperance cause received more vigorous and solid support than was 
ever rendered by the " State previously. A common-sense, highly moral and 
exalted platform was formed and supported by many leading men. 

This year witnessed the serious "strikes" among the miners in Stark and 
Wayne Counties. The consequences were painful — distress, riots and distruc- 
tion of property. 

The State Mine Inspector reported 300 coal mines in the State, with only 
twenty-five in operation. Not over 3,000,000 tons of coal were raised during 
the year, owing to the dullness of the times. 

The State charities reported the aggregate number under public care to be 
29,508. The taxation for the maintenance of these classes was one and one 
six-hundredth of a mill on each dollar of taxable property. 

The reports given of the year 1877 indicated a revival of business interests 
and prosperity. The State produced of wheat, 27,306,566 bushels ; rye, 
914,106 bushels; buckwheat, 225,822 bushels; oats, 29,325,611; barley, 
1,629,817 bushels ; corn, 101,884,305 bushels ; timothy, tons of hay, 2,160,334 ; 
clover, tons of hay, 286,265; flax, pounds of fiber, 7,343,294; potatoes, 
,10,504,278 bushels; sweet potatoes, 126,354^ bushels; tobacco, 24,214,950 
pounds; sorghum, sugar, 7,507^ pounds; syrup, 1,180,255 gallons; maple 
sugar, 1,625,215 pounds ; maple syrup, 324,036 gallons ; honey, 1,534,902 
pounds. 

The growth of manufacturing industries, the remarkable annual increase 
in stock and in agricultural products since 1877, leave no room to doubt the 
rapid advancement of Ohio in general wealth. 




WEstarr- B.onl, Pot Ga 




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PART III. 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY, 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY, 



^ 



:Bizr :r. o. BiRO'wisr.* 



CHAPTER I. 

Primitive Appearance of the Country— The Claims of Virginia and Con- 
necticut—The Connecticut Western Reserve— Donation of Fire 
Lands, and Sale of the Balance to the Connecticut Land Company- 
Indian Titles Extinguished— Ordinance of 1787— Arrival of the First 
Surveying Corps at Conneaut— The Reserve Surveyed into Townships 
— Trials and Sufferings of the Surveyors— Erection of Jefferson and 
Trumbull Counties— Organization of Franklin Township— Portage 
County Erected, and Selection of its Seat of Justice— First Election, 
AND Organization of the County— Minutes of the First Meeting of 
THE Commissioners— Original Townships— Tax Levies and Collectors 
OF 1808— First Year's Receipts and Expenditures— Changes in the 
Western Boundary Line— Present Boundaries— Origin of the Name of 
THE County— The Portage Path — Areas and Townships — Population 
Statistics. 

WHAT is now known as Portage County was, at the time of the com- 
ing of the white men, one vast, unbroken forest. The soil, by the 
annual accumulations of leaves and abundant growths of forest vegetation, 
was luxuriant, and the trees stood close, and were of gigantic size. The 
streams and small lakes swarmed with fish, and the forest abounded with 
game. Where now are towns and hamlets filled with busy populations intent 
upon the accumulation of wealth, the mastery of knowledge, and the pursuits 
of pleasure, the deer browsed and the pheasant drummed his monotonous note. 
Where now stands the glowing furnace from which, day and night, tongues of 
flame are bursting, and where the busy water-wheel now furnishes power for num- 
erous mills and factories, half naked, dusky warriors fashioned their spears with 
rude implements of stoxie, and made themselves hooks out of the bones of ani- 
mals, for alluring the tinny tribe. Where now are fertile fields, upon which the 
thrifty farmer turns his furrow, which his neighbor takes up and runs on until 
it reaches from one end of the broad State to the other, and where are flocks 
and herds rejoicing in rich meadows, gladdened by abundant streams and 
fountains, or reposing at the heated noon-tide beneath ample shade, not a 
blow had been struck against the giants of the forest, the soil rested in virgin 
purity, the streams glided on in majesty, unvexed by wheel and unchoked by 
device of man. 

Where now the long train rushes on with the speed of the wind over plain 
and mead, across brook and river, awakening the echoes of the hills the long 
day through, and at the midnight hour screaming out its shrill whistle in 

♦Chapters I to XIII inclusive. 



188 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

fiery defiance, the wild native, issuing from his rude hut, trotted on in his 
forest path, pointed his bark canoe across the deep stream, knowing the prog- 
ress of time only by the rising and setting sun, troiibled by no meridians 
for its index, starting on his way when his nap was ended, and stopping for 
rest when a spot was reached that pleased his fancy. Where now a swarthy 
population toils ceaselessly deep down in the bowels of the earth, shut out from 
the light of day in digging the material that feeds the tires upon the forge, and' 
gives genial warmth to the poor man's happy home, and to the lovers as they 
chat merrily in the luxurious drawing-room, not a mine had been opened, 
and the vast beds of the black diamond rested unsunned beneath the superin- 
cumbent strata where they had been fashioned by the Creator's hand. Civili- 
zation had not yet come to disturb the equanimity of the red man as he 
smoked the pipe of peace at the council fire, and many a bitter struggle was to 
ensue before he would surrender to his white foe his goodly heritage by the 
forest stream and deep flowing river, and seek for himself new hunting-grounds 
in less favored regions. 

The first authentic record we find of the white man's claim to this portion 
of the red man's domain is the Virginia title to the great Northwest Territory, 
acquired through its several charters granted by James I in 1606, 1609 and 
1611, without any recognition of the original owners and occupants of the 
soil. That colony first attempted to exercise au.thority over its extensive 
dominions lying northwest of the Ohio River, when, in 1769, the House of 
Burgesses passed the following act; 

Whereas, The people situated on the Mississippi, in the said County of Botetourt, 
will be very remote from the Court House and must necessarily become a separate county 
as soon as their numbers are sulEcient, which probably will happen in a short time, be it 
therefore enacted by the authority aforesaid, that the inhabitants of that part of the said 
County of Botetourt which lies on the said waters, shall be exempted from the payment 
of any levies to be laid by the said County Court for the purpose of building a Court 
House and prison for said county. 

Civil government between the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers existed only in 
name until 1778, when, after the conquest of the country by Gen. George 
Rogers Clark, the Virginia Legislature organized the County of Illinois, 
embracing within its limits all of the lands lying west of the Ohio River to 
which Virginia had any claim. Col. John Todd received appointment from 
the Governor of Virginia as Civil Commandant and Lieutenant of the 
county. He served until his death, at the battle of Blue Licks in 1782, and 
Timothy de Montbrun was his successor. In 1783 the General Assembly of 
Virginia passed an act authorizing her delegates in Congress to convey to the 
United States all the rights of Virginia to the territory northwest of the Ohio 
River. Pursuant to this act, Thomas Jefferson, Samuel Hardy, Arthur Lee 
and James Monroe, the Virginia delegates, ceded to the general Government, 
on the 1st of March, 1784, all right, title and claim of soil and jurisdiction 
to said tei'ritory previously held by Virginia. The deed of cession was 
accepted by Congress on the same day, and the United States thus secured the 
title of that State to the soil of Ohio. 

Another claim, however, still remained to be satisfied, which was more 
closely connected with the portion of Ohio known as the Western Reserve than 
the preceding one. " This claim reaches back to the founding of Connecticut, 
the original charter of which was granted by Charles II in 1662. It defined 
the limits of the grant to be " from the south line of Massachusetts on the 
north to Long Island Sound on the south, and from the Narragansett River on 
the east to the Pacific Ocean on the west," which embraced all the country 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 189 

lying between the 41st and 42d degrees north latitude. These boundaries 
included not only what is now Connecticut, but also portions of New York and 
New Jersey, nearly half of Pennsylvania, the northern parts of Ohio, Indiana 
and Illinois, and a strip oflf the southern part of Michigan, besides portions of 
Iowa, Nebraska, Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, Nevada and California. There 
was a clause, however, in the charter, which excepted from it such territory as 
was then occupijed by prior settlers. 

A dispute soon arose between New York and Connecticut as to their bound- 
aries, when the King, in 1664, appointed Commissioners to settle it. They 
decided that the Maronee Kiver should be the western boundary of Connecti- 
cut. With this decision against her, Connecticut neglected for nearly a century 
to assert her claim to any territory west of New York. In 1681 a charter was 
granted to William Penn of the territory embraced in the limits of Pennsyl- 
vania. This, of course, embraced a large part of the territory included in the 
charter of Connecticut, and bitter quarrels now sprung up between the two 
colonies as to their respective rights. In 1753 a company was formed in Con- 
necticut to plant a colony on the Susquehanna River, on lands they claimed as 
included in her Charter. A purchase was made of the sachems of the Six 
Nations by this company in 1754, at Wyoming, and in 1774 a township was 
formed there, called Westmoreland, which sent a Representative to the Legis- 
lature of Connecticut. Pennsylvania and Connecticut both sold the same lands, 
and both agreed to give possession, which caused constant quarrels, and resort 
was often had to arms to expel those in possession. In 1770 the Legislature 
of Connecticut sent to England certain questions respecting her title to the 
lands west of New York. The answers were favorable to her claims, and she 
determined to enforce them, but the Revolutionary war coming on suspended 
the controversy. 

In 1781 the two States appointed Commissioners to determine the dispute, 
and an act of Congress was passed granting to these Commissioners full power 
to act in the tinal settlement of the conflicting claims. The Commissioners met 
at Trenton, N. J., in 1782, and after a full hearing decided that Connecticut had 
no right to the lands in dispute, but that they belonged to Pennsylvania. The 
State of Connecticut acquiesced in the decision, but still claimed all the lands 
lying west of Pennsylvania, extending to the Mississippi River. To avoid all 
future trouble, Connecticut, in 1786, ceded all her lands west of Pennsylvania 
to Congress, excepting only 120 miles from the Pennsylvania line west, and 
north of latitude 41°, over which, however, the United States retained full 
jurisdiction. This cession was accepted, and the controversy finally settled. 

The territory thus confirmed to Connecticut has since been known as the 
Western Reserve, and lies between Lake Erie on the north, Pennsylvania on 
the east, the parallel of the 41st degree north latitude on the south, and the 
eastern line of Seneca and Sandusky Counties on the west. It extends 120 
miles from east to west, and averages about fifty miles from north to south, 
although on the Pennsylvania line its width is sixty-eight miles. The Reserve 
contains about 3,800,000 acres, and is surveyed into townships, each five 
miles square. Half a million acres from off the west end of the Reserve were 
granted by Connecticut in 1792 to the residents of Greenwich, New London, 
Norwalk, Fairfield, Danbury, New Haven, and other villages of that State, 
whose property was burned by the English during the Revolutionary war. 
This grant is called the Fire Lands, because of being donated to compensate 
for the property destroyed by fire, and includes the five western ranges of 
townships in the Reserve. Excepting one township in Ashland County, and a 
small strip at the eastern end of Ottawa, the Fire Lands are embraced in 



190 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

Huron find Erie Counties. The entire Western Reserve embraces the present 
counties of Ashtabula, Cuyahoga, Erie, Geauga, Huron, Lake, Lorain, Medi- 
na, Portage and Trumbull; also the greater portion of Mahoning and Sum- 
mit, and very limited portions of Ashland and Ottaw^a. 

After the donation of the Fire Lands, the remaining 3,300,000 acres were 
put upon the market, and in 1795 sold by the State to the Connecticut Land 
Company for $1,200,000. This money was invested as a permanent fund, 
called the Connecticut School Fund, the interest of which goes toward the 
support of common schools in that State. The land company divided the 
amount into 400 shares of $3,000 each, on payment of which a certificate was 
issued entitling the holder to one four-hundredth part of the lands purchased. 
The company conveyed it by deed of trust to Jonathan Bran, John Caldwell 
and John Mayan, to hold and sell for the proprietors. The certificates were 
all numbered, and then the proprietors drew for their land, similar to draw- 
ing a lottery. 

Before the whites, however, could take peaceable possession of their lands 
lying in the Western Reserve, a title from the Indians was necessary, and this 
was finally accomplished. Through the treaty of Fort Stanwix, consummated 
with the Six Nations October 22, 1784, the indefinite claim of that confederacy 
to the soil of Ohio was extinguished. This was followed in January, 1785, 
by the treaty of Fort Mcintosh, by which the Delawai-es, Wyandots, Ottawas 
and Chippewas relinquished all claim to the territory lying east of the Cuya- 
hoga River, Portage Path and Tuscarawas River, and south of a line running 
southwest from Fort Laurens, on the Tuscarawas (the town of Bolivar), to the 
portage between the Big Miami and Maumee Rivers, near the western bound- 
ary of the State. A similar relinquishment was effected with the Shawnees 
by the treaty of Fort Finney, January 31, 1786. The treaty of Fort Har- 
mar, January 9, 1789, and that of Greenville, August 3, 1795, re-established 
and extended the southern boundary line through Ohio laid down by the 
treaty of Fort Mcintosh. All of the Western Reserve lying west of the Cuya- 
hoga River and the Portage Path was secured by a treaty made at Fort Industry 
(Toledo), July 4, 1805, and thus the last vestige of Indian title to the lands in 
the Reserve was forever extinguished. 

When the United States had obtained possession of the country north and 
west of the Ohio River, Congress took the great step which resulted in the 
establishment of a wise and salutary civil government. On the 13th of July, 
1787, after a prolonged discussion of the principles and issues involved, there 
was issued "An Ordinance for the Government of the Territory of the United 
States Northwest of the River Ohio, " which has since been known as "the 
ordinance of 1787," or the "ordinance of freedom." By this great and states- 
manlike ordinance, provision was made for successive forms of territorial gov- 
ernment, adapted to successive steps of advancement in the settlement and 
development of the Western country. " This remarkable instrument," 
says Chief Justice Chase, " was the last gift of the Congress of the old con- 
federation to the country, and it was a fit consummation of their glorious 
labors." Up to this time the Government, to avoid infringements upon 
the rights of the Indians, had discouraged and prevented the settlement of the 
lands northwest of the Ohio, but on the passage of the ordinance emigration 
was fostered and encouraged in every way, and when the settlers went into the 
wilderness they found the law already there. "It was impressed upon the 
soil itself, while it yet bore up nothing but the forest." 

In June, 1796, the Connecticut Land Company sent out a surveying party 
to divide the Reserve into townships. It was under the charge of Moses 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 191 

Cleveland, from whom the city of Cleveland takes its name. On the 4th of 
July the pai'ty arrived at the site of Conneaut, Ashtabula County, where they 
celebrated our great national holiday, being the first celebration on the 
Reserve. The expedition consisted of forty-five men, two women and one 
child. The work was begun and vigorously prosecuted during the summer 
and fall of 1796, and the following spring a second expedition came out to 
finish the survey. Wareham Shepherd, the last survivor of that surveying 
corps, and Amzi Atwater, who subsequently became Associate Judge of Por- 
tage County, were leading members of this party. When surveying at the 
northeast corner of Palmyra Township, Portage County, July 5, 1797, Shep- 
herd was taken sick with dysentery, and Miner Bickweil, one of their assist- 
ants, with a violent fever. They kept on, however, till they got the line run 
between Braceville Township, Trumbull County, and Windham Township, in 
this county, when Bickweil became too sick to proceed further. Here was a 
trying time. In a wilderness, without medicine, and without skill to use it 
if they had it, and with no guide but their compass — under such difficulties 
the bravest heart might well grow discouraged. But "necessity is the mother 
of invention," and Atwater cut two poles and fastened bark to them so they 
would hang beside a horse like the shafts of a wagou — one horse following 
the other so far apart that the sick man could lie lengthwise between them. 
With bark and blankets they made his bed as comfortable as possible, and by 
twisted bark ropes fastened it to their pack saddles. 

Shepherd becoming somewhat better, Atwater left him with one assistant 
to run the east line of Range to the lake as best he could, and started 
for Cleveland with the sick man. They returned back to the northeast cor- 
ner of Palmyra Township, and then started west on the line between Palmp'a 
and Paris. In this litter Atwater carried Bickweil five days — and a distance 
of fifty miles. He had a high fever all the time, and his reason but a part of 
the time. On the fifth day they arrived at the south line of Independence, 
Cuyahoga County, on the 25th of July, 1797, and Bickweil died about two 
hours after their arrival. He was buried near the luver, on the south line of 
that town, on the farm subsequently owned by Squire Frazer. He was the sec- 
ond white person that died on the Reserve, David Eldridge, one of the party, 
being drowned the May previous in swimming Grand River. Upon Atwater's 
return he found Shepherd at the northeast corner of Nelson Township, 
and they then ran the east line of Range 6 northward to the lake. This fin- 
ished the township lines of the Reserve, the eastern line of Portage County 
being the last one surveyed. The men were nearly all worn out, and sickness 
prevailed to an alarming extent. Peleg Washburn and William Andrews, two 
of the company, died in Cleveland, in August, and nearly every man was sick. 
A man by the name of Tinker, the principal boatman, and from whom Tin- 
ker's Creek took its name, in going down the lake in the fall was drowned, 
together with two others, by the capsizing of their boat. One or two boat- 
loads of sick were sent off early in the fall, and the last of the surveying 
party left the Reserve the fore part of November, 1797, a sorry, sickly-looking 
set of beings, the very reverse of what they were in the spring. 

Such were the sufferings and trials of those hardy bands of surveyors who 
prepared the way for the coming of the pioneers, and whose descendants, while 
enjoying the blessings of the present, can scarcely realize that only eighty- 
eight years ago such was the conditioD of this beautiful country. So suddenly 
and so strangely has the genius of change and alteration waved its charmed 
wand over the land, that the unwritten history of those early days is recalled 
as one remembers a fading dream. We are living in an age of invention and 



192 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

machinery. These have lai'gely destroyed the romance of frontier life, and 
much of the strange, eventful realities of the past are rapidly becoming myth- 
ical, and the narratives of the generation that settled the Western Reserve, 
abounding in rich treasure of incidents and character, are being swallowed up 
and forgotten in the surging, eventful present. 

At the time the iirst settlement was made within the present limits of Por- 
tage County, it formed a part of Jefferson, erected July 29, 1797, and which 
then embraced all of the territory inside the following boundaries, with the 
seat of justice at Steubenville: 

Beginning upon the bank of the Ohio River, where the western boundary of Pennsyl- 
vania crosses it, and down the said river to the southern boundary of the fourth township 
in the third range (of those seven ranges of townships that were surveyed in conformity to 
the ordinance of Congress of the 20th of May, 1785), and with the said southern boundary 
west, to the southwest corner of the sixth township of the fifth range; thence north along 
the western boundary of the said fifth range to the termination thereof; thence due west 
to the Muskingum River, and up the Muskingum and Tuscarawas Rivers to and with the 
Portage, between the latter and the Cuyahoga River; thence down the Cuyahoga to Lake 
Erie; thence easterly along the shore of the lake to the western boundar}^ of Pennsylva- 
nia, and south with the same to the place of beginning. 

Three years passed by, and on the 10th of July, 1800, Trumbull County 
was erected, partly from territory previously embraced in Jefferson, and 
included all of the lands constituting the Western Reserve. Its official bound- 
aries were established as follows: 

Beginning at the completion of the 41st° of north latitude, 120 miles west of the western 
boundary of Pennsylvania.'and running from thence by aline to be drawn north, parallel to 
and 120 miles west of the said west line of Pennsylvania, and to continue north until it comes 
to 42°, 2' north latitude; thence with a line to be drawn east until it intersects the said west- 
ern boundary of Pennsylvania; thence with the said western boundary of Pennsylvania 
south, to the completion of the 41st° of north latitude; and from thence west to the place 
of beginning. 

In 1802 all the territory now embraced in Portage County, besides a portion 
of that in Trumbull and Summit, was organized under the name of Franklin 
Township; but soon afterward other townships were cut off from Franklin, 
and when Portage County was erected it contained six townships in good run- 
ning order. It remained a portion of Trumbull until the 10th of February, 
1807, on which date the Legislature passed the following act, to take effect 
and be in force from and after the 7th of June succeeding its passage: 

1. Be it enacted, etc.. That all that part of the county of Trumbull which lies west of 
the fifth range of townships be erected into a separate county by the name of Portage, 
and shall be vested with all the powers, privileges and immunities of a separate and dis- 
tinct county: Provided, That it shall be lawful for the Coroners, Sheriffs, Constables and 
Collectors of the County of Trumbull to do and perform all the duties which they are or 
may be required to do, within the bounds of the said County of Portage, before the said 
division shall take place; and all suits and actions, whether of a civil or criminal nature, 
which shall be pending, and all crimes which shall have been committed therein at the 
time of said division, shall be prosecuted to final judgment and execution in the County 
of Trumbull, as though no division Iwid taken place. 

2. Tiiat the courts for the said County of Portage shall be holden at the house of 
Benjamin Tappan, until a permanent seat of justice shall be established. 

3. That all that part of the Connecticut Western Reserve that lies west of the Cuya- 
hoga River and south of the township numbered five, shall be annexed to and become a part 
of the county of Portage: Provided, That the money arising to the county from a tax 
on land, within the said district, shall be appropriated by the Commissioners of Portage 
County, and expended in laying out and making roads and erecting bridges, within the 
boundaries of said district, west of the Cuyahoga. 

The act also authorized the appointing of Commissioners, under the law 
establishing seats of justice, to fix upon the place for the county seat of Port- 
age County. The Legislature appointed Robert Simison, Samuel Hunter 
and Rezin Beall, who made their i-eport to the Court of Common Pleas of 




<--l'OJ' /^ 



(_y;^6^x^t/c7-^ H 




^^-^^^^^ 



<^t 



&-/' 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 195 

Portage County at its first session, August 23, 1808, having selected Ravenna, 
which had been laid out by Benjamin Tappan the previous spring, as the seat 
of justice for the new county. There is a well authenticated tradition that 
Aaron Olmstead, the original proprietor of the present township of Franklin, 
was very desirous of having the county seat located on his land, and in the 
summer of 1807 came out from the East, and with John Campbell, of Camp- 
bellsport, selected a site for public buildings a little north of the upper ceme- 
tery in the city of Kent. Olmstead made arrangements with Campbell 
for the latter to use his influence with the State Commissioners in favor of 
this location, and to promise that he (Olmstead) would donate the land and 
erect a Court House at his own expense, if the Commissioners selected that 
site for the county seat of Portage County. He then returned to the East, 
where he soon afterward died, leaving no provision for carrying out his 
promises; and under a will previously executed bequeathing all the unsold 
lands to his grandchildren, the proposed site could not be donated for county 
purposes. It is generally believed that had it not been for Olmstead's death, 
the seat of justice would undoubtedly have been located on the Cuyahoga 
River, at Kent, instead of Ravenna, and consequently the boundary lines 
of Portage County would be much different from what they are to-day. 

Though the act erecting Portage County was passed and went into effect 
in 1807, the new county remained attached to Trumbull for one year longer. 
On the 8th of June, 1808, an election was held, and Abel Sabin, Joel Gaylord 
and Lewis Day elected Commissioners; Alva Day, Sheriff; and Lewis Day, 
Coroner of Portage County. On the same date the Commissioners met for 
the purpose of organizing and putting the wheels of local government in 
motion. On the first page of the Commissioners' Journal the following record 
is made of this important event in the county's history: 

In conformity to an act of the General Assembly of the State of Ohio, entitled "An 
Act establisliing Boards of County Commissioners," the Commissioners in and lor the 
County of Portage met at the house of Robert Eaton*, in Ravenna, on Monday, the eighth 
day of June, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and eight. Persons 
present, Lewis Day, Joel Gaylord and Abel Sabin, Esquires, Commissioners of said county, 
who, having produced certificates of their being duly elected as such, and having taken 
the necessary oaths required by law, proceeded to discharge the duties of their said offices, 
in pursuance to the above recited act. 

The Board of Commissioners proceeded to fix and determine on a suitable person to 
do and perform the duties of Clerk to the said Board. Whereupon it was considered that 
Abel Sabin, Esquire, one of the Commissioners, was a suitable person to discharge the said 
duties of Clerk, and accordingly was appointed thereto, and accepted tiie same. 

The Board of Commissioners in and for said county appointed Elias Harmon, Esquire, 
Treasurer of the county aforesaid, for the year ensuing; who, having accepted the said 

appointment, entered into bonds in the sum of three thousand dollars, with 

for his sureties, conditioned for the faithful discharge of the duties of his office, and took 
the oath prescribed by law. 

Ordered by the Board of Commissioners in and for the County of Portage, that the 
sum of two doilars be allowed as a bounty for each and every wolf or panther killed, over 
the age of six months, within said county, and the sum of one dollar for each wolf or 
panther, under the age of six months, killed within the term of one year, in the county 
aforesaid, to be paid out of the County Treasury, on the order of the Commissioners, in 
conformity to the statute in such cases made and provided. 

Portage County at that time possessed but six organized townships, viz. : 
Franklin, Deertield, Aurora, Hiram, Springfield and Hudson. The two last 
mentioned then included the ten townships taken from Portage in the erection 
of Summit County, in 1840, also the present townships of Randolph and Suf- 
field in this county. Franklin Township embraced the present townships of 
Franklin, Rcivenna, Charlestown, Brimfield and Rootstown. Deerfield Town- 

*This house stands about two and a half miles southeast of Ravenna, and since 1815 has been the Thomp- 
son homestead. 



196 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

ship then included Deerfield, Atwater, Palmyra, Paris and Edinburg. Aurora 
Township embraced Aurora and Streetsboro; and Hiram Township covered the 
territory now known as Hiram, Mantua, Nelson, Shalersville, Freedom, Wind- 
ham and Garrettsville. 

The resident land tax levied August 23, 1808, was as follows: Franklin 
Township, $46.83; Deerlield_, $48.78; Aurora, $38.17; Hiram, $36.31; Spring- 
field, $34.97; Hudson, $81. il. The personal property tax levied on the same 
date was; Franklin Township, $35; Deerfield, $48.90; Aurora, $12.30; Hiram, 
$23.40; Springfield, $26.60; Hudson, $55.60. The following Tax Collectors 
were also appointed at the same time: Arthur Anderson, Franklin Township; 
James Carter, Deerfield; Oliver Forward, Aurora; Isaac Mills, Hiram; Timo- 
thy Culver, Springfield; George Darrow, Jr., Hudson. 

The entire receipts of Portage County from June 13, 1808, to June 17, 
1809, were $3,247.71, of which amount $2,227.52 was the tax on lands lying 
west of the Cuyahoga River, which, by a clause in the act of erection, were 
annexed to this county. The expenditures during the same period were 
$2,355.56, of which $1,125.35 were expended in laying out roads and building 
bridges in the territory west of the Cuyahoga, in compliance with the clause 
attaching said territory to Portage County. Thus, the total receipts of this 
county, from the territory lying between the Trumbull County line and the 
Cuyahoga River, were, during the first year of its organized existence, $1,020.- 
19; truly a very insignificant sum with which to meet its financial wants. 

By an act passed January 22, 1811, the west line of the eleventh range of 
townships was designated as the western boundary of Portage County; and on 
the l8th of February, 1812, Medina County was erected and attached to Port- 
age for judicial purposes, where it remained until its separate organization, 
January 14, 1818. The west line of the eleventh range continued to be the 
western boundary of Portage until the 29th of January, 1827, when the follow- 
ing survey was established: 

Beginning on the south line of the Connecticut Western Reserve, at the point where 
the middle of the Tuscarawas River intersects the same; thence northerly, following the 
middle of the said Tuscarawas River, to the range line between the eleventh and twelfth 
ranges, as run by the Connecticut Land Company; thence north on the course of the range 
line last aforesaid, to the north line of the township numbered four; thence east on the 
north line of number four, in the eleventh range, to the middle of the Cuyahoga River; 
thence down the middle of said river to the north line of the township numbered five, in 
said ranges. ****** 

No more changes occurred in the boundary lines of Portage County until 
the erection of Siammit, March 3, 1840, when its two western tiers of town- 
ships were cut off in the formation of the new county, establishing the west 
line of the ninth range as the western boundary of Portage, and thus its 
boundaries have since remained. It is botmded on the west by Summit County, 
on the north by Geauga, on the east by Trumbull and Mahoning, and on the 
south by Mahoning and Stark, the last mentioned boundary being also the south- 
ern line of the Western Reserve. 

Portage County received its name from the fact that the old Indian Portage 
Path, between the Cuyahoga and Tuscarawas Rivers, was, originally, within its 
limits, though now in Summit County. This historic path was a part of the 
boundary established in 1784, by the Treaty of Fort Mcintosh, and remained 
the dividing line between the whites and Indians until 1805, when the treaty 
consummated at Fort Industry established the western line of the Reserve as 
the north and south boundary between the two races in Ohio. The Portage 
Path left the Cayahoga River at the village of Old Portage, about three miles 
north of Akron, thence ran westward up the hill about half a mile to the high 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 



197 



ground, where it turned south and ran about parallel with the Ohio Canal to 
near Summit Lake; thence took the low ground nearly south to the Tuscara- 
was, which it struck a mile or more above the New Portage. The whole length 
of the path was. according to the survey made by Moses Warren, in 1797, 
eight miles, four chains and fifty-five links. 

As the county increased in population new townships were organized, and 
prior to the erection of Summit County, in 1840, Portage contained thirty 
townships, with a combined area of about 740 square miles of territory, or 
473,600 acres. The erection of Summit, however, left Portage County with 
but twenty townships (Garrettsville has since been formed from Hiram and 
Nelson), and an area of 490 square miles, or 313,600 acres, including streams 
and lakes; but the report of the Secretary of State for 1881 gives 312,487 
acres as the amount of land contained in this county. Its present townships 
are Atwater, Aurora, Brimfield, Charlestown, Deerfield, Edinburg, Franklin, 
Freedom, Garrettsville, Hiram, Mantua, Nelson, Palmyra, Paris, Randolph, 
Ravenna, Rootstown, Shalersville, Streetsboro, Suffield and Windham. 

The population of the county and the several townships by decades, since 
1810 and 1850 respectively, is given in the following tables: County — 1810, 
2,995; 1820, 1,095; 1830, 18,820; 1840, 22,965; 1850, 24,419; 1860, 24,208; 
1870, 24,584; 1880, 27,500. 



TOWNSHIPS. 



1850. 



Atwater Township 

Aurora Township 

Brimfield Township 

Charlestown Township 

Deerfield Township 

Edinburg Township 

Franklin Township (including Kent) , 

Freedom Township . ; 

*Garrettsville Township , 

Hiram Township 

Mantua Township 

Nelson Township 

Palmyra Township 

Paris Township 

Randolph Township 

Ravenna Township (including Ravenna). 

Rootstown Township 

Shalersville Township 

Streetsboro Township 

Suflield Township 

Windham Township 



1,119 
833 
1,015 
809 
1,371 
1,101 
1,758 



1,106 
1,169 
1,383 
1,093 
1,018 
1,732 
2,340 
1,308 
1,190 
1,108 
1,281 



I860. 



1,181 

688 

905 

835 

1,091 

1,018 

1,557 

983 



1,306 
1,207 
1,301 
1,031 

909 
1,686 
2.905 
1,383 
1,153 

906 
1,413 

850 



1870. 



1,180 
643 
913 
675 

1,085 
929 

3,037 
781 



1,234 

1,126 

1,355 

848 

691 

1,564 

3,423 

1,169 

977 

706 

1,444 

865 



1880. 



1,147 

666 

1,030 

633 

985 

910 

4,141 

804 

969 

1,058 

1,150 

890 

1,105 

666 

1,684 

4,224 

1,317 

960 

702 

1,530 

1,029 



*Organized from Hiram and Nelson July 6, 1874. 



198 • HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 



CHAPTER IL 

PoKTAGE County XiNETY Years Ago— Timber and Fruit-Bearing Trees 
AND Vines— Roots and Herbage— Wild Animals, Birds and Reptiles— Big 
Hunts— General Topography, Streams and Lakes— Geology of Portage 
County— Surface Features and Deposits— Geological Structure— Coal 
Measures— Coal No. 1— Coals Nos. 3 and 4— Fire Clay— Altitudp:s in Port- 
age County above Lake Erie. 

ERE the woodman' s ax resounded, sombre and silent was the ancient forest, 
which, during untold centuries, had overshadowed the hills and valleys 
of this region. Beauty and variety marked the plants which grew and bloomed 
beneath the leafy canopy of the gigantic trees. 

"Full many a flower is born to blush unseen 
And waste its sweetness on the desert air." 

Hill, dale and streamlet, with all the families of plants from the lofty 
forest tree to the creeping ivy, gave to the landscape variety and picturesque 
beauty. An unchanged progression of periodical decay had from time imme 
morial been forming a rich vegetable soil, in preparation for the era when 
civilized man should take possession and become its cultivator. Oak of sev- 
eral varieties, chestnut, and hickory in all its species, were the principal growth 
on the dry gravelly lands; red and white beech, maple or sugar tree, linden 
or basswood, sumach, white ash, cucumber, poplar, white, red and slippery 
elm, walnut, ironwood, dogwood, sassafras and cherry, on the rich loamy soil; 
and on the wet lands hemlock, black ash, tamarack, sycamore, soft maple and 
birch; while there was a varying undergrowth of fruit-bearing trees and vines, 
such as the plum, crab- apple, white, red and black haw, alder, whortleberry, 
blackberry, raspberry, serviceberry, gooseberry, currant, cranberry and straw- 
berry, also nuts of several varieties, and hops, ginseng, bloodroot, chocolate 
root, together with innumerable kinds of other roots and herbage of valuable 
properties, were the spontaneous growth of Portage County. 

A thick undergrowth gave an excellent covert to the wild animals that once 
abounded in this section of the State, viz. : the elk, deer, panther, wolf, bear, 
wild cat, fox, marten, otter, polecat, beaver, groundhog or woodchuck, opossum, 
raccoon, hare, rabbit, black, grey, red or pine, flying and ground or striped 
squirrels, muskrat, mink, weasel, porcupine, field-mouse, deer-mouse, common 
rat and mouse. Of these the elk, panther, wolf, bear, wild cat and beaver 
are extinct in this county, or if any are ever seen it is a very rare occurrence. 

Among the birds which are natives of this county or visit it annually, 
either to build or touching it in their migration to a more northerly region, 
are the bald and gray eagle, rarely if ever seen; the hen hawk, fish hawk, 
pigeon hawk, shrike or butcher bird, the white, the cat and screech owl, the 
swan, wild goose, black duck, mallard, wood duck, shelldrake, teal, butter- 
bolt, loon, dipper, water hen or coot, plover, jacksnipe, sandsnipe, king- 
fisher, turkey, pheasant, partridge or quail, woodcock, rail, pigeon, dove, 
whip-poor-will, robin, thrush, catbird, cuckoo, lark, oriole, bluejay, fieldfare 
or red breasted grossbeak, martin, the barn swallow, bank swallow, oven swal- 
low, bluebird, wren, cow bird, bobolink or reed-bird, yellow bird, redbird, 
blackbird, redwing, starling, black or large woodpecker, red-headed wood- 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 199 

pecker, gray woodpecker, flicker, cedar bird or toppy, crookbill, green bird, 
humming bird, and a variety of small birds with whose species the writer is 
not familiar. Some of these members of the feathery kingdom have become 
very rare or altogether extinct, while others have come into the county. The 
white-breasted swallow is one of the later inhabitants, as is also the hardy, 
pugnacious English sparrow, which since his coming has driven many of 
the most beautiful songsters from the towns now inhabited by those little fel- 
lows in great numbers. 

The snakes that were found in this locality are the black and yellow rattle- 
snakes, the former of which usually frequented the wet or swampy lands, and 
the latter the hilly or dry ground. Hundi-eds of those "yellow skins," as they 
were commonly called, were killed, during the first few years of settlement, in 
nearly every township in the county. Regular hunting parties were some- 
times organized in the spring-time, to invade their dens among the ledges, and 
by this means those dangerous pests were rapidly exterminated. The water 
snake was a large black snake, often growing from five to seven feet in length; 
the -small black snake or white-ringed viper, the brown or house snake, the 
garter snake and the green snake were plentiful. All of those mentioned are 
innocuous except the rattlesnake, and it is fortunately now nearly or altogether 
extinct. 

The wild denizens of the forest roamed at will during the earlier years of 
the county's history, and many of the pioneers could tell of dangers and hair- 
breadth escapes from an enraged bear, a pack of ravenous wolves, or a treach- 
erous wild cat, which at one time were more plentiful in this region than cat- 
tle, sheep or hogs. To rid the country of these dangerous neighbors, big 
hunts were gotten up, when game of every sort went down in scores, before 
the unerring rifles of the frontier sportsmen. A whole township would be 
surrounded by a line of hunters, and at a pre-concerted signal all would begin 
the march toward the center, di-ivingthe game before them and shooting down 
any that tried to escape. Great quantities of valuable game were slaughtered 
in this way, and as there were premiums paid for the scalps of the more dan- 
gerous animals, these hunts usually proved a financial success. In a big hunt 
which took place in Freedom Township, in December, 1818, there were killed 
twenty-three bears, seven wolves and thirty-six deer, besides scores of turkeys 
and other game. On the 25th of December, 1818, another hunt took place in 
Windham Township, when twenty-one bears, sixty-eight deer, one wolf, one 
wild cat, with turkeys and other small game innumerable, were bagged. The 
same year at the close of a hunt in Edinburg Township, seven bears, five 
wolves, one hundred deer and four hundred turkeys were counted as the result 
of the day's sport. Another hunt occurred in Edinburg and Atwater Town- 
ships December 24, 1819, the result of which was twenty-one bears, eighteen 
wolves, one hundred and three deer, and more than three hundred turkeys. 
In 1819 a similar raid was made upon the game of Streetsboro Township, and 
five bears, four wolves and sixty deer were slain. Such hunts took place at 
different times in nearly every township in the county, but those given will 
fully illustrate the great amount of wild game which once inhabited the val- 
leys of the Mahoning and Cuyahoga. Those organized hunting parties soon 
had a telling effect in lessening the game, and finally becoming unpopular, 
met with a determined opposition from a large class of citizens and were 
abandoned. Long after the surrounding country was well settled, the tam- 
arack swamps of Brimfield Township afforded an excellent covert for wild 
game, and bears, wolves, deer etc., were quite numerous in that locality. 
Bears especially were so plentiful that the township was familiarly known as 



200 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

"Bear Town." Streetsboro, Freedom, Paris and Edinburg Townships were 
also noted hunting grounds for some years after the game in the adjoining 
territory had been pretty well thinned out. The last wolf killed in Streets- 
boro Township was shot by Merrill Stanton, March 6, 1838, about which time 
the larger and more troublesome wild animals had, much to the relief of those 
settlers whose cattle, hogs and sheep often went to satisfy their voracious 
appetites, entirely disappeared from the forests of this county. 

The general topography of Portage County is slightly rolling, the uplands 
usually of a sandy or gravelly nature, and the more level portions principally 
composed of a clay soil. Few counties in Ohio are better watered. The 
whole eastern half is drained by the Mahoning River, with its several local 
branches, Silver Creek being the most important, which rise along the central 
portions of the county, from north to south, and flow in an easterly direction, 
uniting before reaching Warren, Ohio; thence take a southeast course to the 
Shenango, with whose waters the Mahoning unites about two miles south of 
Newcastle, Penn., when the two streams become Beaver River. The word 
Mahoning is, according to Heckewelder, derived from either the Indian Mahoni, 
signifying "a lick," or Mahonink, "at the lick;" but Lucius V. Bierce, in 
his sketches of the Western Reserve, says that it comes from the Indian word 
Ma-um-ing, meaning "the way to the market." 

The Cuyahoga River takes its rise in Geauga County, and flowing south- 
west, enters Portage near the northwest corner of Hiram Township; thence 
crossing said corner and keeping the same general course across the southeast 
corner of Mantua, and the northwest corner of Shalersville Township, turns 
southward through the southeastern tier of lots in Streetsboro Township; 
thence winding diagonally across Franklin Township, from its northeast to its 
southwest corner, passing through Kent on its route, enters Summit County. 
It there makes a big bend, and turning northward empties into Lake Erie at 
Cleveland. This river receives its name from the Indian word Cuy-o-ga, mean- 
ing "crooked," a term significant of the stream, which' is very winding. Its 
largest tribu-taries in this county are the Little Cuyahoga and the Breakneck. 
The former drains the southeast corner of the county, Fritch's Pond, in Suf- 
field Township, being one of its sources, and Springfield Lake, across the line 
in Summit County, the other. The Breakneck heads in Stark County, and 
winding northward through Randolph and Rootstown Townships, turns across 
the southwest corner of Ravenna Township, and thence northwestward through 
Franklin Township, discharges its waters into the Cuyahoga, about a mile and 
a half northeast of Kent. One branch of the Chagrin River heads in Aurora 
and Mantua Townships, and thence passing northward joins the main stream 
in Cuyahoga County. 

Portage is also well supplied with small natural lakes and ponds. In 
Franklin Township we find Brady's Lake, Pippin Lake, Twin Lakes and 
Stewart's Pond; in Rootstown. Sandy Lake, Muddy Lake (which is partly located 
in Ravenna Township), Muzzy' s Pond and Ward's Pond; in Suffield, Congress 
Lake (partly) and Fritch's Pond, and Long Pond in Aurora Township. Brady's 
Lake received its name in honor of Capt. Samuel Brady, of " Brady's Leap " 
fame, who fortunately escaped from Indian vengeance by hiding beneath its wa- 
ters. Pippin Lake was called after the apple of that name; Twin Lakes, because 
of their close proximity to each other, and connection by a small branch; Stew- 
art's Pond, after a pioneer of that name; Sandy and Muddy Lakes, from the 
character of the soil surrounding them; Muzzy's Pond, after Nathan Muzzy, a 
peculiar character who claimed to have discovered it; Ward's Pond, from a 
pioneer of that name; Congress Lake, from the lake bearing that name in 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 201 

New York; Fritch's Pond, after John Fritch, a German who built a mill at 
the outlet, and Long Pond, from its long, narrow shape. 

Geology of Portage County* — Portage County lies entirely on the water- 
shed which separates the streams that flow into Lake Erie from the tributaries 
of the Ohio. Its central portion rises to an altitude of 685 feet above the 
lake, while the valleys by which its surface is diversified descend about 300 
feet lower. The highest point of the county is near the line of the Cleveland 
& Pittsburgh Railroad, between Rootstown and Atwater, while the lowest is in 
the valley of the Mahoning, below Garrettsville. 

When first entered by the whites, the county was covered with an unbroken 
growth of primeval forest, consisting, on the lower and more level portions, of 
beach and maple; of oak, chestnut, etc., on the higher and drier lands. 

Though underlaid by rocks of diverse character, the surface is mainly 
formed by a sheet of clay,which has given a peculiar character to the agricult- 
ural pursuits of the inhabitants, and has made this a portion of the great dairy 
district of the Western Reserve. 

In some localities on the northern and western slope of the water-shed, but 
near its summit, are heavy beds of gravel, forming swells of the surface, or 
even-rounded hills of considerable altitude. Typical examples of these may 
be seen in Randolph, Rootstown, Siiffield, Franklin and Brimfield, and near 
Earlville, on the lines of the two railroads which pass through the county. 
In the basins inclosed by these gravel hills and ridges lie most of the lakes 
and peat bogs of the county. These gravel hills constitute an interesting 
feature in the surface deposits, and will be found described in the first chapter 
of Vol. II, under the head of Karnes. I have ascribed them to the action of 
waves on the Drift deposit of the shore and shoals which formed the margin of 
the great inland sea that once filled all the basin of the lakes. 

In the northern part of the county the Drift deposits are generally of so 
great thickness as to cover and conceal the underlying rocks. W^herever 
exposed to view, the rock surface is found to be planed and grooved by glacial 
action, and usually the overlying clay may be designated as a bowlder clay, 
since it contains masses of rock derived from neighboring sources, with smaller 
and usually scratched and worn fragments brought from distant localities. 
This clay is unquestionably the material ground up by the great glacier which 
once covered northern Ohio, pushed forward by its advance, and left in an 
irregular sheet upon the rocky foundation in its retreat. In some places the 
clay is finer, without gravel or bowlders, and is accurately stratified by the 
action of water. 

Immediately beneath the soil, or projecting above the surface, are found 
many transported bowlders, frequently of large size, composed of granite, 
greenstone, and other crystalline rocks, evidently of foreign origin, and appar- 
ently derived from the highlands north of the great lakes. These bowlders 
are rarely found deeply buried in the Drift, and, as I have elsewhere shown, 
must have been floated by icebergs from their place of origin, and dropped into 
their present position. Some of the superficial gravels which overlie the 
bowlder clay seem to have been transported by the same agency. 

As a whole, the soil of Portage County is productive, and although, from 
its tenacious character, and the dense growth of forest by which it was cov- 
ered, it has required much patience and labor for its subjugation, this task has 
been well and thoroughly performed by the intelligent and industrious popu- 
lation into whose possession it came, and it has repaid their efiforts by a con- 
stant and generous support through the last half century. 

*By J. S. Newberry. 



202 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

In common with the other portions of the great divide on which Portage 
County is located, its rolling surface forms numerous local basins, many of 
which have been, and some still are, occupied by lakes. Of these lakes 
Stewart's Pond, Twin Lakes, Brady's Lake, and Pippin Lake, in Franklin, 
Muddy Lake, Sandy Lake andMuzzy's Lake in Rootstown, and Fritch's Pond in 
Suffield, may be cited as examples. These lakes are supplied by springs which 
flow through the Drift gravels, and their water is usually clear and pure; they 
contain great numbers of tine fish, and are also interesting and beautiful feat- 
ures in the scenery. Some of these basins formerly occupied by water have 
been gradually filled up by the growth of vegetation, and now exist as swamps 
underlaid by peat. One of the best known of these is near Ravenna, where 
considerable peat has been cut and manufactured. There is another and still 
more extensive peat marsh in Brimfield, and small ones occur in nearly every 
township. Usually these peat bogs are occupied with Sphagnum (the peat- 
producing moss), cranberry vines, huckleberry bushes, and larches, and they 
are often known as tamarack or huckleberry swamps. The peat in these 
Bwamps is not unfrequently underlaid by shell marl, and both these are capa- 
ble of being used with profit by the farmers as fertilizers. It is also probable 
that the cranberry may be successfully cultivated on the swamp surfaces. In 
the Eastern States the cultivation of cranberries has proved to be liighly 
remunerative to those engaged in it, and there seems no good reason why the 
same success should not be attained by the inhabitants of those portions of 
Ohio where the cranberry grows spontaneously, and where there are marshes 
which are well adapted to its cultivation. 

Striking and typical examples of the glacial furrows which have been 
referred to above may be seen on the hill near the house of Mr. Theodore 
Clark, in the township of Edinburg. The direction of the striae is here N. 
60° E. The rock is a sandstone, overlying the lower seam of coal. Near 
the center of Palmyra is a still better exhibition of glacial marks. On the 
hill, three quarters of a mile west of the center, the bearing of the furrows is 
N. 30^ E. In the town of Palmyra, on a surface of sandstone exposed in 
front of Mr. Wilson's store, the traces of glacial action are very conspicuous; 
the rock surface being planed down very smooth, and marked with scratches 
and furrows, of which the direction is N. 26° E. In many other parts of the 
county similar ice inscriptions may be observed, chiefly on the surfaces of the 
beds of sandstone, as they are better retained on this indestructable material 
than on the softer or more soluble rocks. 

The bowlder clay which overlies the glaciated sm-face varies considerably 
in appearance in different localities, according to the exposure and drainage 
to which it has been subjected, and the local circumstances which controlled 
its formation. In the valleys it will be found to be of a bluish color through- 
out. On the higher lands the upper portion is frequently yellow, sometimps 
down to the depth of ten or twelve feet, while the lower portion is blue or 
gray. This difference I attribute to the oxidation of the iron contained in the 
clay, where it has been exposed to the air and to surface drainage. The num- 
ber and character of the pebbles and bowlders contained in the clay also 
varies much in different localities. In some places, as near Campbellsport, the 
Drift deposits are largely made up of angular or little-worn fragments of sand- 
stone, torn from their beds in the immediate vicinity ; while in places remote 
from such outcrops of the harder rooks, the stones contained in the clay are 
small, much worn, and many of them are composed of granite, etc., brought 
from the region north of the lakes. 

On the highlands the gravel beds referred to above rest sometimes on the 



4 




t^ ^ O^ ^ J^u/Ik^ 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 205 

bowlder clay, but perhaps oftener on the underlying rock, showing that the 
causes which produced the accumulation of gravel generally removed all the 
clay. Where the gravel beds overlap the bowlder clay, the materials which 
compose them seem to have been washed back from the higher grounds. It will 
be noticed that the pebbles in the gravel beds are well rounded and often irregu- 
larly stratified, while those found in the bowlder clay are sub- angular, 
scratched and worn, but rarely rounded. It is evident, therefore, that the 
gravels have been subjected to a triturating action quite different from that 
exerted by glaciers on the materials which they move. The facts show fur- 
ther that water, either in shore waves or in river currents, has been the agent 
by which the pebbles of the gravel have been rounded ; and as it is difficult to 
conceive of any currents which could leave beds and hills of gravel such as 
are found along the divide between the waters of the lake and the Ohio, 
I have been led to consider these deposits as the effect of shore waves, 
when the lake basin was filled to this height, on the bowlder clay and other 
Drift material which once covered the underlying rocks. It is possible, too, 
that the drainage from the glacier, when it filled the lake basin and was melt- 
ing along its southern edge, contributed to the washing of the clay and the 
rounding of the pebbles. In this view the gi-avel hills and sheets which cover 
80 much of the great divide which crosses the State may be compared to the 
terminal moraines of existing glaciers, but in no moraine of which I have any 
knowledge are the pebbles and bowlders nearly so well rounded as in the 
deposits under consideration ; and I am sure all who will carefully examine 
these will agree with me that free and swift moving water, in large quantity, 
has been the chief agent in producing the phenomena exhibited. Along cer- 
tain lines leading from the summit of the watershed to the Ohio, both east and 
west of Portage County, there are belts of gravel and bowlders, which mark, 
as I concieve, broad and long- existing drainage channels, by which the surplus 
water of the lake basin flowed through certain waste- weirs cut in the water- 
shed and escaped southward, but the gravel hills of Portage County can hardly 
be referred to such a cause. 

Geological Structure. — The number and relative positions of the strata 
which come to the surface within the limits of Portage County will be seen 
at a glance by reference to the section given below: 

Superficial clay and gravel 10 to 100 

Shale and sandstone 50 

Limestone to 4 

Coal No. 4 1 to 5 

Fire-clay 3 to 4 

Shale and sandstone 25 to 30 

Limestone to 4 

Coal No. 3 1 to 8 

Fire-clay 3 to 12 

Shale 20to 50 

Coal No. 2 Oto 1 

Sandstone 50 to 100 

Shale Oto 50 

CoalNo.l Oto 5 

Fire-clay 3 to 5 

Shale and sandstone 35 to 50 

Conglomerate 100 

All the rocks enumerated in the preceding section belong to the Carbon- 
iferous system, of which they represent two members, viz. : the Conglomerate 
and the Coal Measures. The area of the county is about equally divided be- 
tween the two formations. All the northern half has the Conglomerate for 
its surface rook, though it is generally deeply buried by Drift clays. It is 

12 



206 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

fully exposed in the valleys of the Mahoning and Cuyahoga. The trough of 
the latter stream is cut in the Conglomerate all the way from the point where 
it enters the county, in Hiram, to its place of exit, on the west side of Frank- 
lin. The Conglomerate is well seen in Mantua and Garrettsville, and still 
better in Franklin and Nelson. In all these localities it exhibits essentially 
the same characters, viz. : a coarse, drab-colored sandstone, in places thickly 
set with quartz pebbles from the size of a pea to that of an egg. In some 
places, as in Windham, the stone it furnishes is finer, whiter, and more homo- 
geneous, and would answer admirably for architectural purposes. As a gen- 
eral rule, however, it is rather coarse for all fine work, but furnishes a strong 
and durable stone, well adapted to bridge-building, cellar walls, and, indeed, 
to all plain and massive masonry. 

Near Kent certain layers of the Conglomerate have been found, which are 
white enough to serve for the manufacture of glass. The coloring matter of 
the rock is usually iron, and it here contains much less than usual. 

The best sections of the Conglomerate found in the county are in Nelson, 
where its entire thickness is shown — 175 feet — and it forms bold 
escarpments, which constitute the western boundary of the valley of 
Grand River. These escarpments are known as the Nelson Ledges. They 
afford the most pictjiresque scenery to be found in the county, and are noted 
places of resoi't for the inhabitants of the surrounding region. In the extreme 
northeastern corner of the county an island of the Conglomerate has been cut 
ofi" by erosion from the main plateau. Though less bold in its outline, it has 
the same topographical character and relation as Little Mountain, in Lake 
County. 

At the base of the Nelson Ledges the Cuyahoga shale is imperfectly 
exposed. This is the upper member of the Waver iy formation, and will be 
found fully described in the reports on Cuyahoga, Summit, and Trumbull 
Counties. A few years since quite an excitement was raised by the reported 
discovery of gold at the Nelson Ledges. As is usual in such cases, stock com- 
panies were formed, and many dreams of wealth were indulged in by those 
who obtained shares of the stock. It is hardly necessary to say that these 
dreams have passed like "the baseless fabric of a vision." The excitement 
was caused by the discovery of iron pyrites in certain beds of the Conglomer- 
ate — another of the innumerable examples of the mistake of "fool's gold" for 
true gold. A little knowledge of geology would have prevented this error, 
and would have taught the sufferers that gold could never be found in paying 
quantities in Portage County. That minute particles may sometimes be 
detected in the superficial gravels is very probable, since these gravels are 
largely made up of quartz pebbles, which are only rolled masses of the quartz 
veins contained in the crystalline rocks of the Canadian highlands, and which 
frequently carry a little gold. It is also probable that with sufficient care in 
searching for it, an infinitesimal quantity of gold might be detected in the 
Conglomerate, as the quartz pebbles it contains were doubtless derived from 
the same source with those to which I have already referred ; but it may be 
confidently predicted that the precious metal will never be obtained from 
either of the sources mentioned in sufficient quantity to compensate the most 
idle and worthless member of the community for any time he may spend in 
its search. 

Coal Measures. — Nearly three-fourths of the surface of Portage County is 
underlaid by coal-measure rocks, and they once covered its entire area. From 
the valleys of the Mahoning and Cuyahoga they have been removed by erosion, 
so that in the northern part of the county they are restricted to a small island 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 207 

west of the river, in Mantua, and a narrow arm which projects from Freedom 
northward, through Hiram, into Geauga County. 

In the northern part of Portage County the Drift deposits are so thick as to 
hide the outcrops of the coal rocks, and it is here very difl&cult to trace the 
line along which the edge of the lowest coal seam should be found. It is 
probable that coal, in greater or less thickness, underlies the principal part of 
Hiram, the western half of Shalei'sville and Ravenna, and the southwestern cor- 
ner of Windham. The northern and southern portions of Paris, and nearly all 
of Charlestown, lie above the horizon of the lower coal, as do most of Palmyra, 
Deerfield, Brimiield and Suffield. 

Along a belt running through the central part of the county, the land is 
high enough to carry the second and third seams of coal from the bottom. 
With this breadth of coal area it would at fu*st sight seem that Portage County 
should produce as large an amount of coal as Trumbull, and much more than 
Summit, but up to the present time the coal production of the county has been 
exceedingly small. This arises from the fact that the margin of the lower 
coal (Coal No. 1) is so generally covered with Drift that it does not show itself 
at the surface in many localities, and also that this coal here, as in the Mahon- 
ing Valley, lies in detached basins of limited extent, and is entirely absent 
over large areas from the place where it belongs, or is so thin as to be of little 
value. We may expect, however, that important basins of the Briar Hill coal 
will be found within the limits that have been marked out. W^ere it not for 
the Drift it would be easy to follow the outcrops of the rocks, and knowing just 
where to explore by digging or boring, to determine the presence or absence of 
the coal. In the present circumstances, however, even where coal may be 
supposed to exist, it can only be detected by boring blindly through the Drift 
deposits. In many places these will doubtless be found so thick as to cut out 
the coal, though the surface may be considerably above the coal level. Even 
where the rocks which belong above the coal may be found in place, from the 
irregular distribution of this seam, the chances are more than equal that the 
result of boring will show it to be absent, or too thin to have any economic 
value. Since, however, the coal of this stratum is so excellent, it will be the 
part of wisdom for all those who own territory lying within the lines I have 
traced to make such explorations as may determine whether or not they are in 
possession of some portion of this great source of wealth. The level of Coal 
No. 1, in the northern half of Portage County, varies from 500 to 600 feet 
above the lake. The dip being toward the south, the coal sinks rapidly in 
that direction, and rises correspondingly toward the north. At Ravenna the 
place of the coal is probably not far from the level of the intersection of the 
Cleveland & Pittsburgh and Atlantic & Great Western Railroads, or about 500 
feet above Lake Erie. 

Coal No. 1 has been opened, and is now quite extensively mined in Pal- 
myra. It here exhibits the same general features, both as regards thickness 
and quality, as the coal of the neighboring counties of Mahoning and Trum- 
bull. The coal mining of Palmyra is principally done by the Western Reserve 
Coal Company, to a member of which company, Mr. W. B. Wilson, of 
Palmyra, I am indebted for much valuable information concerning the opera- 
tions of his own company, and in regard to other developments of coal made 
in this township. The coal mined by the Western Reserve Coal Company is 
reached by a shaft which is eighty-one feet deep to the coal, or ninety-five feet 
from the tip. It is reported that in sinking the shaft eighteen feet of earth 
was first passed through, and then sixty-three feet of rock, mainly shale, in 
which were two strata of "kidney" ore. The coal varies from two to four 



208 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

feet in thickness, being thickest in a " swamp " which ruus northwest and 
southeast in a tortuous course. On each side of this crooked basin the coal 
rises and thins, and is worked to the thickness of two feet. The company is 
taking out about 4,000 tons per annum, selling it at the mine at $3.00 per ton. 
The coal is of excellent quality, being very free fi'om sulphur, and containing 
little ash. It is a block coal, Unely laminated with charcoal seams, and is not 
siu'passed in quality by any coal in the State outside of the Mahoning Valley. 
According to our barometric measurements by a single line of observations, the 
center of Palmyra is 120 feet above Ravenna Station, or G50 feet above Lake 
Erie. The tip of the coal company's shaft is 430 feet above Lake Erie, and the 
coal 335 feet above the lake. Owing to the variability of the barometer, these 
figures can not be relied upon as absolutely correct. The Western Reserve 
Coal Company has 200 acres of coal land in the eastern part of Palmyra, on 
the center road. How large a part of those 200 acres is underlaid by coal of 
workable thickness has not yet been ascertained. Other companies have been 
making explorations in this neighborhood, and report about 200 acres of good 
coal land in addition to that before mentioned. 

In the northwestern part of the township some 300 acres of coal property 
are said to have been tested, and the coal is reported to be from three to four 
feet in thickness. Coal has also been found in the northeastern and south- 
western parts of the township. We thus have good reason for believing that 
a somewhat extensive basin, or series of basins, of the Briar Hill coal exists in 
and about Palmyra, but years of exploration will be required before it will be 
known what the connection, limits and value of this coal field are. 

From the shaft in Palmyra the coal extends west and south to an unknown 
distance, and possibly reaches under much of the central and southern parts 
of the county. Since the place of Coal No. 1 is from 200 to 250 feet below 
the surface over a considerable part of the higher land, it is apparent that 
most of the boring yet done has formed no test of its presence or absence. 

In the valley of the Mahoning, in Deerfield, an outcrop of coal may be 
seen which was supposed by Mr. Read, who examined it, to be the Briar Hill 
coal. It is, however, only about a foot in thickness, and it is probable that 
it is the next seam above. A boring of limited depth would decide the ques- 
tion. In Brimfield and Suffield there is a large amount of territory which 
deserves more careful exploration than it has yet received. Hei'e the land 
rises to 150 feet above the level of the coal, but the surface is generally occu- 
pied by Drift. Little is known of the nature of the underlying rocks, but from 
the relation which this district holds to the coal basins of Tallmadge and 
Springfield, in Summit County, there is a great probability that sooner or 
later good deposits of coal will be found here. It should be borne in mind, 
however, that from the circumstances which I have fully explfiined in the 
report on the geology of Summit, the lower coal is of tener absent than present 
in the place where it belongs, and it is, therefore, to be expected that a large 
part of the trials which may be made here will result in disappointment. 

At Limaville, on the southern line of the county, Coal No. 1 has been 
struck in borings by Dr. J. A. Dales, at the depth of about 170 feet, or less 
than 350 feet above the lake. According to the reports by Dr. Dales, the 
coal has here a thickness of over four feet. Analyses prove that it has the 
purity and physical character of the Mahoning Valley coal. Should a consid- 
erable area in this vicinity bo found to be underlaid by Coal No. 1, it would 
be difficult to exaggerate the importance it would assume among the wealth- 
producing elements of the county, and it is sincerely to be hoped that the 
examinations begun here will be carried through the townships lying north, 
until this important question shall be definitely settled. 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 209 

Coals Nos. 3 and 4. — By reference to the general section of the rocks of 
the county, it will be seen that at a distance from the lower coal — generally 
from fifty to seventy-five feet — a thin seam occurs. This has no value in this 
part of the State, and requires here no further notice. 

From 150 to 200 feet above Coal No. 1, two other seams come in, which 
are sometimes of workable thickness. These we have designated as Coals No. 
3 and No. 4. They are separated by a distance of thirty to fifty feet, and are 
usually both overlaid by limestone. Sometimes, however, one or both of the 
limestones are replaced by shale. These coal seams, here as elsewhere, have 
proved to be quite irregular in their thickness, although in a general way 
continuous from Portage through Summit, Stark, Wayne, Holmes, Coshocton 
Counties, etc., to and beyond the National Road. Both these coals may be 
seen in the northeastern corner of Atwater, where the north and south road 
crosses a small stream, and not far from the locality where so much fire-clay is 
dug. Here the limestone of No. 3 shows in the bed of the brook at a level of 
twenty feet above the railroad at Atwater, or 580 feet above Lake Erie. It is 
about four feet in thickness, and, as usual, has iron ore over it. The coal 
beneath is only a few inches thick. Some twenty feet above the limestone 
Coal No. 4 is seen in the road, here apparently four feet thick, but with scarcely 
any covering. No limestone is visible over it. 

In Limestone Ridge, in Freedom, both these strata are shown. The upper 
one is thin, but is overlaid by limestone, which is here burned for quicklime. 
Coal No. 3 is seen in the road at the south end of Limestone Ridge; as usual, 
it is underlaid by a thick bed of fire-clay. 

On the farm of Wilson Davidson, about half a mile distant from the last- 
named locality, this coal has been mined, though not largely, for a number of 
years. It is here about twenty-two inches thick. From the fact that this seam 
was represented as Coal No. 1 by the geologist who, when connected with the 
first geological survey of the State, made an examination of this region (Annual 
Report of 1838, p. 59), no thorough exploration has ever been made of the 
strata below it. Possibly such explorations would have been fruitless, as the 
lower seam is so frequently absent from its place; but as the true position of 
Coal No. 1 is at least 150 feet below Mr. Davidson's coal, it is evident that a 
large area in the vicinity deserves examination by deep boring. Considerable 
money has been spent in boring in Freedom, but, so far as I can learn, none 
of the wells have been carried deep enough to determine the presence or 
absence of the lower coal. One well bored on Limestone Ridge is reported to 
have furnished the following section: 

FT. IN. 

Earth 14 

Limestone 3 

Shale 54 

Coal 1 10 

Fire-clav ? 

Sandrock 30 

Shale 10 

In this boring the upper limestone coal was absent or so thin as not to 
attract notice. The lower limestone was absent, as seems to be the case gen- 
erally in this vicinity. The place of the lower coal was not reached by from 
seventy-five to one hundred feet. Another hole was bored by William Cran- 
nage, for Mr. George Worthington, of Cleveland, without finding the coal 
sought for, but was almost certainly not carried to a suflficient depth. 

A well sunk near the quarries on Limestone Ridge is said to have passed 
through — 



210 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

FT. 

Limestone 4 

Shale, with plants and thin seams of coal 20 

Sandrock to bottom. 

Here it is evident that the place of the twenty-two-inch seam was not 
reached. 

Half a mile northeast of Drakesburg a well showed the following strata: 

FT. 

Earth 14 

Shale 30 

Sandrock to bottom 26 

In this well the excavation was probably begun below the limestone coals, 
but it did not descend to the level of the lower coal. 

At Hiram Center a yellow sandrock of the Coal Measures is quarried just 
back of the hotel. South of the Center, about one mile, shale crops out in the 
road below this sandrock. Near this point, but west and on higher ground, 
a well on Mr. Hopkins' land gave — 

FT. 

Earth 9 

Sandrock 15 

Shale, with one foot of coal 40 

"Flagstone," to bottom 3 

Stratum No. 4 of this section was called by the drillers " bottom rock," 
but in this vicinity no proof should be accepted of having passed the place of 
the lower coal, except reaching the Conglomerate. 

In the soiith part of Hiram, coal has been taken from a natural outcrop 
twelve to eighteen inches thick, and used by the blacksmiths. This is proba- 
bly Coal No. 1. 

In going from Drakesburg to Garrettsville the surface descends nearly two 
hundred feet, passing down from a broad ridge or divide, which is a marked 
feature in the topography, and which stretches connectedly north into the cen- 
ter of Geauga County. The top of this ridge or table is above the coal level 
from Freedom to Burton, and more or less coal has been found in it all the 
way, although it is usually thin. 

At Garrettsville the Conglomerate is fully exposed, and rises thirty feet 
above the depot, or 485 feet above the lake. Two miles west of Garrettsville 
the base of the ridge referred to is reached, and in the ravine by the roadside 
the following section is exposed : 

FT. 

Coarse sandrock, with some small pebbles 30 

Irregular seam of coal 1 

Shale, with bands of sandstone 20 

Black shale, with iron 1 

Sandstone to base. 

The top of this section is ] 50 feet above the depot at Garrettsville, and 
the coal exposed is probably about the horizon of the thin seam. No. 2, the 
place of Coal No. 1 being below. 

In Mantua there are many natural outcrops of coal, viz.: at the railroad 
cut northeast of the Corners a few inches (two to four) thick; a mile south of 
the Corners, on Mr. Blaine's land, sixteen inches ; one and a half miles east 
of the Corners, six to eight inches thick. Three wells drilled near each other 
in this vicinity gave — 

FT. 

Earth 4 

Sandrock 36 to 46 

Black shale 20 to 40 

Gray shale 2 to 4 

Coal 4 to 12 inches. 

Sandrock (bottom not reached). 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 211 

A boring was made one and a half miles south of the Corners, to the depth 
of 336 feet, penetrating earth, sandrock and shale, of which the thickness is 
not known. Coal was found six to eight inches thick. 

The center of Charlestown rises to the height of 575 feet above the lake, 
and an outcrop of coal is visible on the King place, in the road leading to 
Ravenna, and about fifty feet below the Center. This is evidently the Briar 
Hill seam. The hill on the opposite side of the valley rises 600 feet above 
the lake and nearly 100 feet above the coal level, but the coal, if it exists 
there, is concealed. The valleys of the streams in this region are cut below 
the coal, and all the highlands should carry it ; but unfortunately heavy beds 
of Drift conceal its outcrops and make the work of exploration expensive and 
uncertain. 

In the central part of Edinburg the land is all at least 150 feet above the 
coal level. This is proved, not only by barometric measurement, but by the 
explorations made east of the Center by Mr. G. L. Chapman. He has bored 
many holes in search of coal, and has found it in several. In one place a 
shaft was sunk with the expectation of mining it. The coal, however, was 
found to be very irregular in thickness, and the enterprise was not successful. 
In making these explorations Mr. Chapman at first supposed that the coal he 
found was the Briar Hill seam, but it is quite certain that the place of Coal 
No. 1 is at least 150 feet below the bottom of the shaft. Two beds of coal and 
two of limestone were passed through in some of the borings made by Mr. 
Chapman, all within fifty feet of the surface. The section exposed in the 
shaft referred to is as follows: 

FT. 

Surface deposits 12^ 

Sandy shale 11^ 

White sandrock 7^ 

Shale, sandy above 17| 

Coal No. 3 3i 

Sandrock and shale 4 

Fire-clay 1^ 

The upper limestone is said to have been found in an adjacent field. 

A boring made somewhat east of the shaft, and carried to a greater depth 
afibrds a much better view of the geological sub-stjucture of this region. The 
record of this boring is as follows: 

FT- IN. 

Surface deposits 20 

Shale 4 

Limestone 3 6 

Fire-clav 3 6 

Shale 3 6 

Shaly sandstone 8 

Shale 6 

Coal 4 

Shale 2 

Coal 2 6 

Shale 7 

Fire-clay 4 

Shale 7 6 

Sandrock 54 

Shale 2 

Bluish sandrock 6 

It will be noticed that in this section a bed of limestone occurs near the 
surface, and that the lower part of the boring was in a thick bed of sand- 
stone. This sandstone is the massive stratum which overlies the Briar Hill 
coal, sometimes coming down to it, and sometimes even cutting it out com- 



212 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

pletely, but more generally resting upon a bed of shale of variable thickness. 
The place of Coal No. 1 is plainly below the bottom of this hole. 

Since my first visit to Edinburg, Mr. Chapman has continued his explora- 
tions, and others have been carried on by Mr. D. W. Goss, but, so far, I 
believe, without very satisfactory results. The many borings made show great 
irregularity in the deposition of the strata here, and it is evident that this has 
been a region through which rapid currents of water have swept, which have 
cut away the coal seams and deposited sands and clays in a very unequal way. 
This will be evident upon an examination of the records of some of the drill- 
ings. A well bored one mile northeast of the Center gave — 

FT. 

Earth 20 

Shaly sandrock 6 

White sandrock 39 

Blue shale 3 

Fire-clay 8 

Shale, with coal streaks 4 

Fire-clay 1 

Shale 4 

Black, coaly shale 2 

Shale 3 

Fire-clay 2 

Shale 87 

Very hard sandrock 8 

Fire-clay 1 

Shale 42 

Fine sandrock 24 

Sandrocli 8i 

Soft shale 8 

Fine, bluish sandrock 45 

Gray shale 50 

Shale and sandrock 38^ 

Bluish-gray shale 21 

It is evident that this boring has gone far into the Waverly, and it reveals 
the fact that the Conglomerate is here absent. This is somewhat surprising, 
as in the valley of the Mahoning, only a few miles distant, it is fully 100 feet 
in thickness. 

Another well, one-half mile east of the last, gave — 

FT. 

E arth 1 

Soft sandstone 13 

White sandstone 24 

Stratified iron ore 6 

Sandrock and shale 4 

Fire-clay 3 

Shale 3 

Fire-clay 2 

Dark shale 13 

This was evidently not deep enough to aflford a satisfactory test. 
A third well, in the north part of the township, east of the Center road, 
gave: 

FT. IN. 

Yellow clay 10 

Blue clay 40 

Sandrock 41 

Sandy shale 4 

"Flint," very hard 6 

Sandy shale 12 6 

Fine sandrock 26 

This, also, was probably not deep enough. 

An instructive section is furnished by a well three-quarters of a mile east 
of the Center; this is: 




"■".^^tg ^.y jra^-uM^^-l 



^erK, 



'./-'C-^ 




i:-^,^6-i!y<:/^ f-c ^^^ 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 215 

FT. IN. 

Earth 10 

Shellyrock 10 

Sandrock 40 

Clay 4 

"Sulphurous" sandrock 8 

Clay 3 

Shalycoal 9 

Coal, good 6 

Shale 7 

Coal, poor 11 

Black shale 1 6 

This hole certainly did not reach near the horizon of the block coal, but 
is carried to about the place of the bottom of the shaft, and shows the mixed 
character of the deposits in even a greater degree than the shaft section. 

Mr. Goss has sent me sections of three wells bored south of the Center to 
the depths respectively of 126^, 88 and 78 feet. They show alternations of 
shale, sandstone and fire-clay, with a little coal, but do not reach to the place 
of Coal No. 1. 

These explorations indicate that the upper coals are not likely to be found 
in any valuable development in the township of Edinburg. It is to be hoped, 
however, that under this bi'oad and elevated table-land the lower coal will be 
somewhere found of workable thickness. 

Passing south from Edinburg the land continues high, and the surface 
nowhere comes nearer than 150 feet to Coal No. 1; while in some instances it 
rises to such a height that the coal must be from 200 to 250 feet beneath. 

In Atwater much boring has been done, and coal found, which has been 
opened both by shaft and adit. The explorations made here were undertaken 
on the supposition that the coal, of which outcrops had been known, was the 
Briar Hill seam. This was, however, an error, and there can be no question 
that it is Coal No. 4. The place of Coal No. 1 is far below the bottom of 
the Atwater shaft, and probably below the bottom of the deepest well bored in 
the vicinity. The coal mined at Atwater is of good thickness — from four to 
five feet — but it exhibits the usual characteristics of the limestone seams, 
being of irregular thickness and variable quality. It is a serviceable fuel for 
the generation of steam, and is a pleasant grate-coal, but from the quantity 
of sulphur it contains is not well adapted to the manufacture of iron. The 
following analyses of this coal, made at the School of Mines by Mr. W. P. 
Jenney, will indicate very fairly its composition. No. 1, upper bench; No. 2, 
lower bench: 

No. 1. No. 2. 

Water 3.27 3.03 

Volatile combustible matter 26.06 26.42 

Fixedcarbon 64.50 62.50 

Sulphur 1.52 2.20 

Ash 4.65 5.72 

Totals 100.00 99.97 

At the shaft of the Atwater Coal Company the coal is from four to five feet 
in thickness, in two benches, separated by a bony parting. It is overlaid by 
black shale, which contains many discoid shells {Discina). In the shale above 
is considerable granular iron ore, but not of very good quality. The shale is 
succeeded by sandstone, as in all this region. The coal is opened by an adit, 
half a mile east, on lower ground. 

On John Hines' farm, one and a half miles southeast from Atwater Cen- 
ter, a shaft has been sunk to Coal No. 4, passing through — 1, surface clay; 2, 
sandstone; 3, black and gray shale; 4, black shale; 5, coal. Coal is here four 



216 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

feet six inches in thickness, and, according to barometer, lies twenty-six feet 
below Atwater Station, or 534 feet above Lake Erie. 

About half a mile east the same coal is struck at a depth of eleven feet, 
on the farm of Michael Strong. It here lies ten feet higher than at Hines', 
while the svirface falls off rapidly toward the east. The thickness of the coal 
is the same as at Hines' farm. 

In some of the borings made by Mr. Christy, near the Atwater shaft, the 
coal was found to be cut out by heavy beds of sacdstone; no coal whatever 
having been reached in borings carried to a depth of 200 feet. It is quite 
possible, therefore, that in this locality no workable coal exists below 
Coal No. 4, but it is not certain that the deepest boring has been carried to 
the level of the Briar Hill seam, as the surface of this portion of the town- 
ship is at least 200 feet above the level. From the proximity of the 
railroad, the Briar Hill coal would have special value if found under these 
highlands, and it seems vexy desirable that a sufficient number of borings 
should be made to determine its presence or absence. The cost of boring to 
the depth of 200 feet need not exceed $300 for each hole, and experienced 
and reliable drillers can be found who will contract to do the work at this 
price. The result of boring at Limaville has already been reported, and this 
is such as to encourage further effort. At Limaville the upper coals are found 
in their proper positions, and Coal No. 1 at its regular level, far below. 

It is certain, therefore, that the lower seam does exist in this region — at 
least in basins of limited area— and we may confidently predict that foresight 
and energy will bring to some fortunate person ample reward by its discovery 
in this part of Portage County. 

Fire-clay. — As I have stated on a preceding page, the Atwater coal crops 
out in the northeast corner of the township. The lower limestone coal is here 
very thin, but, as usual, is underlaid by a seam of fire-clay, which is, perhaps, 
the most valuable in the series. This is apparently the same bed with that 
worked in Springfield, Summit County, and also that which furnishes most of 
the fire-clay made into pottery and tire-bricks along the Ohio, in Columbiana 
and Jefferson Counties. It also forms the basis of an important manufacture 
in Portage County, as it supplies the material for the potteries at Lima and 
Atwater. It is chiefly derived from John Spire's farm. Lot 10. Atwater Town- 
ship. The bed is about twelve feet thick, divided into two layers by a part- 
ing of back slate. The upper seven feet is not used in the potteries on 
account of the contained iron. The clay generally immediately underlies the 
soil, and is worked in open pits, but it is in some places overlaid by coal about 
thirty inches in thickness. A specimen obtained from the mine or pit (but 
"whether from the upper or lower bench is not certain) was analyzed by Prof. 
Wormley, giving the following result: 

Water 3. 00 

Silica 79.90 

Alumina 14.60 

Iron oxide 1.60 

Lime 0.20 

Magnesia 0.24 

Alkalies 1.50 

Total 100.04 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 217 

ALTITUDES IN PORTAGE COUNTY ABOVE LAKE ERIE. 

FT. 

Ravenna Station 530 

Ravenna (City) 560 

Rootstown 550 

Atvvater Station 560 

Atwater Center 600 

Railroad Summit 603 

Topographical Summit, north 685 

Cuyahoga River Bridge 474 

Garrettsville Depot 455 

Mantua 536 

Drakesburg 635 

Windham 372 

Edinburg 610 

Campbellsport 410 

Charlestown Center 575 

Limestone Ridge 675 

Freedom Station 575 



CHAPTER III. 

The Pre-Historic Races— Mound-Builders— Their Great Antiquity— Occu- 

PATION OF THE COUNTRY — THE WONDERFUL MONUMENTS WHICH THEY LeFT 

Behind Them— Some Evidences of Their Existence in Portage County 
—The North American Indians— Their Supposed Origin— Brief Sketch 
of Them— Indians of Portage County— The Great Trail— The Indian 
Chiefs Bigson, Stignish and Big Cayuga— Extracts from the Reminis- 
cences of Christian Cackler on the Indians of This Section. 

THAT a very numerous race of people occupied that portion of the North 
American Continent now known as the United States, long anterior to its 
occupancy by the present Indians, is beyond proof, but of this people nothing 
is now known, more than can be gleaned or conjectured from the multiplicity 
of massive works left by them throughout, almost, the entire extent of the 
country. These works exist to-day as mounds, varying in size and character, 
and scattered either in groups or singly, from the sources of the Allegheny to 
the headwaters of the Missouri, and, extending southward, stretch from the 
Appalachians in the Carolinas to Texas. There are three grand divisions of 
these elevations, but they all bear the same general characteristics, being either 
mounds in the true sense, or circumvallations of earth and stone, the State of 
Ohio, alone, it is computed, containing no less than 10,000 of the former and 
1,500 of the latter, some of which are of a very marked and extraordinary 
character. These mysterious dwellers of a long- forgotten age, called Mound- 
Builders, in lieu of a more accurate designation, evidently possessed a civili- 
zation distinctive of themselves, and that they used a written language appears 
entirely probable, from some peculiar hieroglyphic characters discovered upon 
their pottery ware and stone implements. But, beyond their almost imperish- 
able monuments, the archaeologist seeks in vain for a further solution of the 
grand problem of the coming, the life, and the exodus or decay of this myste- 
rious race. On opening a mound, he finds only mouldering skeletons, scattered 
and shattered remnants of vessels of earthenware, rude weapons of warfare, axes 
of stone, flint drills, spear-heads, and bottles of irregular, yet finished workman- 
ship, cut and polished from extremely hard stone, never, or rarely, indigenous 



218 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

to the spot where found, showing the owners of them to have been an essentially 
migratory people, or a conquering nation, shifting about from place to place, 
yet leaving monuments behind them whose imperishability is not inferior to 
that of Cheops. 

A thousand interesting queries arise respecting them, but the most search- 
ing investigations only give us vague and unsatisfactory speculations as an 
answer. If we knock at their tombs no spirit reposing within responds to the 
summons, but a sepulchral echo comes ringing down the ages, reminding us 
how fruitless the search into that inscrutable past over which the curtain of 
oblivion seems to have been irrevocably drawn. Whence came these people; 
who and what were they, and whither did they go? Some writers have dis- 
covered evidences, convincing, apparently, to themselves, that this pre-historic 
race came from the other side of the globe, and that their advent was made at 
different times and from different points of a general hive in the supposed 
cradle of humanity — Central Asia. Others think them to have been the for- 
gotten ancestors of the degenerate and now decaying American Indians, who, 
having no preservative written language, the memory of their ancestors has 
gradually slipped from them. Still others fancy them to have been the orig- 
inal indigenous, spontaneous product of the soil. Regardless, however, of the 
origin, progress and destiny of this curious people, the fact of their having 
been here is certain; therefore the best that can be done by the archseologist 
is to examine their works and draw from them the conclusions that seem the 
most probable. 

The mounds vary in height from about five feet to thirty feet, with several 
notable exceptions, when they reach an altitude of eighty to ninety feet. The 
erections consist of villages, altars, temples, idols, cemeteries, monuments, 
camps, fortifications and pleasure grounds. They are chiefly of some symmet- 
rical figure, as circle, ellipse, rectangular parallelogram, or regular polygon, 
and inclose from one or two acres to as high as fifty acres. The circumvalla- 
tions generally contain the mounds, although there are many of the latter to 
be found standing isolated on the banks of a stream or in the midst of a broad 
plateau, being evidently thus placed as outposts of offense or defense, for the 
fact that they were a very warlike and even conquering race, is fully attested 
by the numerous fortifications to be met with wherever any trace of them is 
found. 

The works of the Mound-Builders in the United States are divided into 
three groups: The first group extends from the upper sources of the Alle- 
gheny River to the headwaters of the Missouri; the second occupies the 
Ohio and Mississippi Valleys, and the third stretches across the country, with 
very little interruption, from South Carolina to the western limits of Texas. 
These groups are subdivided into three varieties of elevations, mounds, 
inclosures and eflSgieo, which are designated as mounds of sepulture, 
sacrifice, worship, observation, commemoration and defense. Mounds of 
sepulture are more numerous than the others, are conical in shape, and range 
from three to fifty feet in height. They usually contain the bones of one or 
more skeletons, accompanied by ornaments and implements of stone, mica, 
slate, shell or obsidian, besides pottery, whole and fragmentary, bone and cop- 
per beads, and the bones of animals. Mounds of sacrifice are recognized by 
their stratification, being convex and constructed of clay and sand on the nor- 
mal level of the soil, on top of which can be found a layer of ashes, charcoal 
and calcined bones, which in time has a layer of clay and sand, followed by 
more ashes, charcoal, etc., till the gradual upbuilding resulted in the manner 
we now see. These mounds also often contain beads, stone implements, pot- 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 219 

tery and rude sculpture, and occasionally a skeleton, showing that they may 
have been used as burial places. Mounds of worship, which are compara- 
tively few, have generally a large base and low elevation, and are in some 
instances terraced and having inclined ways to the top. Their size and char- 
acter have led to the inference that these flat-topped mounds originally were 
crowned with temples of wood, for had they been stone, traces of that material 
would be found. Mounds of observation, or beacon or signal mounds, are 
generally found upon elevated positions, and apparently could have subserved 
no other purpose than as " look-out" stations, or beacon points, and as con- 
firmatory of the latter purpose, ashes and charcoal have been found imbedded in 
their summits. These mounds occur on the line of what are considered the 
outposts of these pre-historic conquerors. Mounds in commemoration of some 
important event or character are here and there to be found, and they are thus 
classed because from their composition, position and character they are neither 
sepulchral, sacrificial, temple, defensive nor observation mounds. They are 
generally constructed of earth, but in some instances in Ohio, where they are 
stone erections, they are considered to be monumental. Mounds of defense, 
however, with the exception possibly of one or two efl&gies in Ohio, are the 
most remarkable. These mounds in some instances give evidence that their 
builders were acquainted with all the peculiarities in the construction of the 
best defensive earth and stone-works. They are always upon high ground, 
on precipitous bluffs and in positions that would now be selected by the 
accomplished strategist. The gateways to these forts are narrow and are 
defended by the usual wall in front of them, whilst the double angle at the 
corners and projecting walls along the sides for enfilading attack show a 
knowledge of warfare that is phenomenal in so rude a people as their imple- 
ments would indicate. Moats are often noticed around these fortifications, and 
cisterns are to be found within the inclosures. 

When the first settlers arrived at the sites of Marietta and Circleville, 
Ohio, a number of these earthworks were discovered, some of which yet exist; 
and at Newark when the circumvallation known as the " fort " was first seen 
by those who settled there in the early years of the century, a large tree, 
whose age was possibly not less than six hundred years, stood upon one of the 
embankments over twenty feet above the general level, thus giving great anti- 
quity to the erection. Ohio contains many curious forms of these works, two 
of the most singular being in Licking County and known respectively as the 
"Eagle" and "Alligator" eflSgies. The first is a bird with outstretched 
wings raised about three or four feet above the ground in the same manner as 
a bas-relief of the sculptors; the other is an animal closely resembling an 
alligator. They are supposed to have been idols, or in some way connected 
with the religion of the people who built them. 

In Boss County a defensive inclosure occupies the summit of a lofty, 
detached hill, twelve miles west of Chillicothe. This hill is not far from 400 
feet in perpendicular height, and some of its sides are actually inaccessible, 
all of them being abrupt. The defenses consisted originally of a stone wall 
carried around the hill a little below the brow, the remains of this wall exist- 
ing now only in a line of detached stones, but showing plainly their evident 
purpose and position. The area inclosed embraced about 140 acres, and the 
wall itself was two and one-quarter miles in length. Trees of the largest size 
now grow upon the ruins of this fortification. About six miles east of Leba- 
non, Warren County, on the Little Miami River, is another extensive fortifi- 
cation, called " Fort Ancient." It stands on a plain, nearly horizontal, about 
236 feet above the level of the river, between two branches with very steep 



220 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

banks. The extreme length of these works in a direct line is nearly a mile, 
although following their angles, retreating and salient, they probably reach a 
distance of six miles. Another of those inclosures is located in the south- 
eastern part of Highland County, on an eminence 500 feet above the level of 
Brush Creek, which washes its base. The walls of the fortifications are over 
half a mile long, and the works are locally called " Fort Hill." The remains 
of an inclosure may yet be seen near Carrollton, a few miles south of Dayton, 
Montgomery County. All of those inclosures were evidently constructed for 
defensive purposes, and give signal proofs of the military knowledge of their 
builders. 

Burial mounds are very numerous in this State, and there ai'e few coun- 
ties that have not a greater or less number of these tumuli. The most 
remarkable of this class was a mound opened by John S. B. Matson, in Har- 
din County, in which over 300 human skeletons were found. Some antiqua- 
rians, however, entertain the belief that they were not all the remains of 
Mound-Builders, but many of them Indian remains, as it is well known that 
the latter often interred their dead in those monuments of their predecessors. 
When the first band of pioneers to the Western Reserve arrived at the mouth 
of Conneaut Creek, July 4, 1796, they discovered several mounds, and could 
easily trace the outline of a large cemetery then overgrown with forest. Ex- 
plorations were subsequently made, and some gigantic skeletons exhumed from 
mounds which stood on the site of Conneaut, Ashtabula County. The frames 
and jaw-bones were those of giants, and could not have belonged to the race 
of Indians then inhabiting any portion of this country. Several yeai'S ago a 
burial mound was opened in Logan County, from which three skeletons were 
taken. The frame of one was in an excellent state of preservation, and 
measured nearly seven feet from the top of the skull to the lower part of the 
heel. In 1850 a mound lying on the north bank of Big Darby about one 
mile northwest of Plain City, in Union County, was opened and several mas- 
sive skeletons taken therefrom. The lower jaw-bones, like those found at 
Conneaut, could be easily fitted over the jaw of a very large man, outside the 
flesh. These bones — and they are usually large wherever found — indicate 
that the Mound -Builders were a gigantic race of beings, fully according in 
size with the colossal remains they have left behind them. 

The largest mound in Ohio, called the "Great Mound," is located on the 
east bank of the Miami River, a short distance southeast of Miamisburg, 
Montgomery County. The surf ace elevation at this point is more than 150 feet 
above the level of the stream. The mound measures 800 feet around the base, 
and about sixty-five feet in height, though archaeologists claim that it was orig- 
inally more than eighty feet high. Explorations and the wear and tear of the 
elements have worn o& the summit about fifteen feet. At the time the pio- 
neers first came to the Miami Valley this mound was covered with trees, a 
large maple crowning the top, from which, it is said, the few cabins then con- 
stituting Dayton were plainly visible. In 1869 a shaft was sunk from the top 
of the mound to a distance of two feet below the base, and about eight feet 
from the surface a human skeleton was found in a sitting posture facing due 
east. A deposit of vegetable matter, bones of small animals, also wood and 
stone surrounded the skeleton, while a cover of clay, ashes and charcoal seems 
to have been the mode of burial. 

There are few traces left of the Mound -Builders in Portage County, 
although at an early day in the settlement of this section, many small tumuli 
were observed, which the plow has long since almost entirely obliterated. 
Still, there are eminences in various sections in the northern and southeast- 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 221 

em portions of the county which seemingly owe their origin more to the 
labors of man than to nature. In Randolph Township, we have been informed, 
a mound was opened some years ago which disclosed the bones of a skeleton, 
together with some fragments of pottery and rude stone implements. To the 
northeast of Hiram Center the writer noticed an elevation that bears the 
almost unmistakable marks of artificial workmanship, and it is believed that if 
excavations were made into it the usual pre-historic "finds" would be the 
reward. In the townships of Suffield and Streetsboro are several tumuli 
which resemble the works of the Mound- Builders, but as no scientific examina- 
tion has been made into them, they are still held in doubt. In Palmyra Town- 
ship, a little northwest of the Center, about one mile therefrom, is a low but well- 
defined series of mounds, almost unnoticeable to the untrained eye, that have 
all the characteristics of the true mound. They are not far from where there 
was, in the early days of the county, an Indian camp or small village, the 
spot being pointed out to us by Mr. Alva Baldwin. But all these indica- 
tions, until they have some actual foundation given them by examination, 
must be taken with a grain of allowance. The remains of this strange people 
are usually found near the larger water courses and lakes, and as Portage 
County lies somewhat out of the course of these by-ways of navigation, many 
evidences of their presence cannot be looked for here. Yet, that they passed 
over those very hills is beyond all reasonable doubt, for their mounds are to be 
seen eastward and westward of this section. 

The question of the origin of the North American Indians has long inter- 
ested archaeologists, and is one of the most difficult they have been called upon 
to answer. The commonly accepted opinion is that they are a derivative race, 
and sprang from one or more of the ancient peoples of Asia. Some writers 
have put forward the theory that the Indians, from their tribal organization, 
faint similarity of language and religion, and the high cheekbone in the well 
developed specimen of the race, are the descendants of the two lost tribes of 
Israel. Others contend that they descended from the Hindoos, and that the 
Brahmin idea which uses the sun to symbolize the Creator has its counterpart 
in the sun-worship of some Indian tribes. They have lived for centuries with- 
out much apparent progress — purely a hunter race — while the Caucasian, under 
the transforming power of Christianity — the parent of art, science and civil 
government — has made the most rapid advancement. Under the influences of 
the church, however, the Indian has often shown a commendable capability for 
accepting the teachings of civilization; but the earnest efforts of her devoted 
missionaries have often been nullified or totally destroyed by the unwise 
policy pursued by the governing power, or the dishonesty and selfishness of 
the officials in charge. Stung to madness at our injustice and usurpation of 
his hunting-grounds, he has remained a savage, and his career in the upward 
march of man is forever stunted. The Indian race is in the position of a half- 
grown giant cut down before reaching manhood. There never has been a 
savage people who could compare with them in their best estate. Splendid in 
physique, with intense shrewdness and common sense, and possessed of a 
bravery unexcelled, there never was a race of uncivilized people who had with- 
in them so much to make them great as the red man. Whatever he has been 
or is, he was never charged with being a coward or a fool, and as compared to 
the barbarians of other portions of the globe, he is as "Hyperion to a Satyr." 

The advent of the whites upon the shores of the Western continent engen- 
dered in the bosom of the aborigines a spark of jealousy, which, by the 
impolitic course of the former, was soon fanned into a blaze, and a contest 
was thereby inaugurated that sooner or later must end in the extermination of 



222 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

the latter. The struggle has been long and bitter; many a campaign has been 
planned by warriors worthy and able to command armies, for the destruction 
of the pale-faced invaders When Philip struck the blow which he hoped 
would forever crush the growing power of the white men, both sides recognized 
the supreme importance of the contest, and the courage and resources of the 
New England colonists were taxed to the utmost to avoid a defeat, which meant 
final destruction. The fierce resistance of later days, as the Indians were 
driven farther and farther toward the setting sun^ are historic facts with 
which the student is already familiar. The conspiracy of Pontiac, the famous 
Ottawa chieftain, in 1763, failed in its object of extermination, and the bravery 
and sagacity of the celebrated Indian leaders, Brandt, Red Jacket, Cornplanter, 
Cornstalk, Logan, Black Hoof, Tarhe, Little Turtle and Blue Jacket, could 
not prevail against the heroes of the Revolution, and the triumph of Wayne in 
1794 closed a long series of bloody Indian wars. A few years passed by, when 
Tecumseh flashed out like a brilliant meteor in the firmament of great Indian 
leaders, and organized the Western tribes for a last desperate effort to hold 
their own against the advancing tide of civilization. But he too went down 
in defeat and death before the prowess of Hai-rison's legions. When the 
Creeks, in 1813, through the intrigue of Tecumseh, challenged the people of 
the South to mortal combat, it required the genius of a Jackson, and soldiers 
worthy of such a chief, to avert a serious calamity. But since the decisive bat- 
tle of Tohopeka, March 27, 1814, there has been but one Indian war of any 
considerable magnitude, viz. : the Seminole war in Florida. The Black Hawk 
outbreak in Illinois in 1832 required but a few weeks' service of raw militia 
to quell, but the Seminoles of Florida, led by the indomitable Osceola, a half- 
breed of great talents, carried on a bitter struggle from 1835 to 1839, when 
their power was completely crushed, and they were soon after removed beyond 
the Mississippi. Since then campaigns have dwindled into mere raids, and 
battles into skirmishes. The massacre of Custer's command in Montana must 
be regarded as an accident of no permanent importance, and a dozen such 
melancholy events would not in the least alarm the country. Indian fighting, 
though not free from peril, now serves a useful purpose for the army graduates 
of West Point, who might otherwise go to their graves without ever having 
amelled hostile gunpowder. 

Two hundred years ago the white man lived in America only by the red 
man's consent, and within that period the combined strength of the red man 
might have di'iven the white into the sea. Along the Atlantic coast are still 
to be seen the remains of the rude fortifications which the early settlers built 
to protect themselves from the host of enemies around; but to find the need 
of such protection now, one must go beyond the Mississippi to a few widely 
scattered points in Arizona, New Mexico and Oregon. The enemy that once 
camped in sight of the Atlantic has retreated toward the slope of the Pacific, 
and from that long retreat there can be no returning. East of the stream 
which he called the Father of Waters, nothing is left of the Indian except the 
beautiful names he gave and the graves of his dead, save here and there the 
remnants of once powerful tribes, living on reservations by the sufferance of 
their conquerors. The Indian has resisted and will continue to resist every effort 
to civilize him by coercion — every attempt to force at the point of the bayonet 
the white man's ideas into his brain. He does not want and will not have our 
manners or our code of morals forced upon him. The greatest redeeming fea- 
ture in the Indian character and career is that he has always preferred the worst 
sort of freedom to the best sort of slavery. Whether his choice was a wise 
one or not the reader can determine; but it is impossible not to feel some 




"^ 






HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 225 

admiration for the indomitable spirit that has never bowed to the yoke — never 
called any man "master." The Indian is a savage, but he never was, never 
will be, a slave. We have treated him like a dog and are surprised that he 
bites. In a speech in New York City, not long before his death, Gen. Sam 
Houston, indisputable authority on such matters, declared with solemn 
emphasis, that "there never was an Indian war in which the white man was not 
the aggressor." Aggression leading to war is not our heaviest sin against 
the Indian. He has been deceived, cheated and robbed to such an extent that 
he looks upon most of the white race as villains to whom he should show no 
quarter. A very decided feeling of justice to the abused red man is gaining 
ground of late years, and numerous able pens have been engaged in defending 
him, among whom are Joaquin Miller, the poet, and Hon. A. B. Meacham. 
But we can well afford, after getting all his land and nearly exterminating 
him, to extend to him a little cheap sympathy. 

The Indians of this continent were never so numerous as has generally 
been supposed, although they were spread over a vast extent of country. Con- 
tinual wars prevented any great increase, and their mode of life was not cal- 
culated to promote longevity or numbers. The great body of them originally 
were along the Atlantic seaboard, and most of the Indian tribes had traditions 
that their forefathers lived in splendid hunting grounds far to the westward. 
The best authorities affirm that on the discovery of this country the number 
of the scattered aborigines of the territory now forming the States of Ohio, 
Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky and Michigan could not have exceeded 18,000. 

The earliest date of any authentic knowledge of the Indian in this section 
is 1650, when the Eries held possession of the northern portion of what is now 
Ohio. They lived along the southern borders of the lake which bears 
their name, but when their domains were invaded by the Iroquois, about 1655, 
most of them fell before their relentless foes, whilst the i*emainder became 
incorporated with other tribes, were driven farther southward, or adopted into 
those of their conquerors. During the first half of the seventeenth century 
the Shawnees were living along the valley of the Ohio, but they, too, were dis- 
persed by the Five Nations or Iroquois, and dispossessed of their lands, though 
they subsequently returned to their early hunting grounds. For many years 
before and after 1700 this entire territory was occupied by the remnants of 
defeated tribes, who were permitted to remain by sufferance of their conquerers, 
the latter exacting a tribute, collected at will from the wandering and unset- 
tled tribes. In 1750, however, something like permanent occupation had 
again taken place, and we find in what is now Ohio the Wyandotts, Delawares, 
Shawanees, Mi amis, Munsees, Chippewas, Ottawas, Senecas, Cayugas, 
Mohawks, Oneidas and Onondagas, the last five being known in history as the 
Mingoes of Ohio. They were settled mostly along the larger streams and on 
the southern shore of Lake Erie. 

When the first settlers reached what is now Portage County, the then 
unbroken wilderness was filled with wild animals and nearly as wild men. 
There were members of several tribes, as this county was among the best of 
the hunting grounds of the red man. In the northwestern section there were 
representatives of three tribes: the Senecas, who had their headquarters near 
the Cuyahoga River, in Streetsboro Township, on land now owned by Samuel 
Olin, and whose chief was Bigson; the Ottawas, who had their village near 
the mouth of the Little Cuyahoga River, whose chief was Stignish, and the 
Chippewas, who lived further west in Medina County, about Chippewa. Lake, 
but who occupied a portion of this section in summer, where they hunted. 
These tribes had their hunting grounds as well defined as the boundaries of a 

>3 



226 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

modern farm, and every Indian knew where the limits of his "range" was, 
as well as if it had been surveyed. 

Bigson, the Seneca chief, was about six feet in height, of a powerful and 
muscular frame, well proportioned, with keen black eyes, a stern and dignified 
look, honest and upright in all his dealings with the whites, a firm friend, or 
an implacable enemy. His family consisted of four sons and three daughters, 
only two of the sons being with him: John Amur and John Mohawk, the lat- 
ter the one who shot Diver in Deerfield Township. The husbands of the 
daughters were George Wilson, Nickshaw and Wobmung. These Indians did 
most of their trading with Capt. Heman Oviatt, who kept a little Indian 
store about one mile south of Hudson. They named the old trader " Coppa- 
qua, " from the fact that he was so badly cheated in a trade on one occasion 
that he cried — the term Coppaqua meaning "to shed tears." This, also, was 
the Seneca name for Cuyahoga Falls. 

In what is now Windham Township there was a village of Indians up to 
about 1807 or 1808, a short distance northwest of where now stands the depot 
of the Mahoning Branch of the New York, Lake Erie & Western Railroad. 
There were small clearings and a few decaying wigwams still to be seen when 
the first settlers arrived in that section. There was, also, an old orchard, set 
out by the red men, and from the old trees, one of the sons of those first 
settlers informed the writer he had eaten apples. An Indian trail ran along 
the northern border, and at various points the pioneers discovered the remains 
of villages. What are now Nelson and Hiram Townships was a favorite hunt- 
ing resort of the Indians, and members of several tribes periodically visited 
this section, among whom were Senecas, Ottawas, Onondagas, and a few 
Oneidas, but mostly Cayugas, with their chief Big Cayuga, and his nephew, 
Snipnose Cayuga, who succeeded him, after the redoubtable Capt. Delaun 
Mills had killed the former. The " ledges " in the upper part of Nelson 
afforded excellent shelter for the red skins, and a few wigwams could always 
be seen under them. Many thrilling tales are told of the adventures, hair- 
breadth escapes and dreadful vengeance of the early settlers, and particularly 
of Capt. Mills, the most of which, however, has been summed up in the sketch 
of Nelson Township. 

When the first settlers came into Palmyra Township, and for several years 
afterward, a number of families belonging to the Onondaga and Oneida tribes 
were living in that locality. The Onondagas had their village about a mile 
west of the Center, a little to the northeast of the residence of Mr. Alva Bald- 
win, and one of the trees under which they used to congregate is still standing 
on the spot. This settlement was on the line of the " Great Trail," which 
extended from Fort Mcintosh, where Beaver, Penn., now is, to Sandusky and 
Detroit. From the Big Beaver the trail passed up the left branch of the 
Mahoning, crossing it about three miles above Youngstown; thence by way of 
the Salt Springs in Trumbull County, through Milton and on through the upper 
portion of Palmyra; thence through Edinburg, after crossing Silver Creek one 
mile and a half north of the Center road; thence through Ravenna and 
Franklin, crossing the Cuyahoga at Standing Rock, about a mile from the 
city of Kent, where the waters enter the narrow gorge made so famous by 
the "Leap" of Capt. Brady; the trail then passed in a northwesterly direc- 
tion to Sandusky. Along this great thoroughfare parties of Indians frequently 
passed for many years, even after the whites had taken possession of the 
country. There were several large piles of stones in Palmyra Township, along 
this trail, under which human skeletons were found, supposed to be the 
remains of Indians slain in war, or murdered enemies, and as it was the cus- 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 227 

torn of the red men to cast stones upon the graves of their dead foes, they each, 
in passing, helped to form the piles. In 1814, near where the trail crosses 
Silver Creek, several devices were found carved upon trees. The bark had 
been carefully shaved off, and in one instance seven Indian figures carved 
thereon, one of which was without a head, the inference being that seven of 
the red skins h^ed started out on one of their forays, and that one of the band 
had been slain; hence the memorial. 

The Indians living in Deertield at the time Diver was shot were, according 
to Christian Cackler, who knew them well, Senecas, and not Mohawks, as 
Howe, in his " Historical Collections" makes them, nor were they permanent 
dwellers in that portion of the county, their camp being in Streetsboro Town- 
ship, where they would erect, in the winter- time, a large wigwam, spacious 
enough to contain the whole remnant of their tribe in this section. Nickshaw, 
who traded horses with Diver, was a son-in-law of the Seneca chief, John 
Bigson, and John Mohawk, who shot the unfortunate man, was a son of the 
chief. A detailed account of this affair will be found in the chapter ok 
Deerfield Township. In the summer of 1809 Bigson lost his squaw by death, 
at their head-quarters on the Cuyahoga River. She was a large, stout woman, 
and very good looking, having, like her husband, a very dignified, not to say- 
stoical, appearance. She was said to be very kind and friendly for an Indian. 
Her age was between fifty and sixty years. They made a new calico frock for 
her after she was dead, and placing it on the corpse, literally covered the arms 
and ankles with silver beads and broaches. She was buried in a coffin made 
of bark, in a grave three feet deep, bein^i; first rolled up in a large blanket, 
the covering being so arranged that a hole was left that she might see out of 
it when she was summoned to arise again and enjoy the happy hunting grounds 
in the domain of the Great Spirit. 

This chapter can have no more appropriate closing than to give a few 
extracts from the recollections of the late Christian Cackler, who was an eye- 
witness to what he relates. Speaking of the head-quarters of John Bigson, the 
Seneca chief, whom he knew personally for many years, the old gentleman 
writes in the following quaint style: "I have been there a great many times 
when they lived there, and if they had anything to bestow upon you in the 
way of eatables, it was as free as water. They thought it a privilege to give, 
for they thought it was a token of friendship, and if they gave- one they gave 
all present. Their wigwam was about twenty-five feet long or more, and they 
had their fire through the middle, and had it so constructed as to leave room 
for a tier of them to lie down on each side of the fire so as to have their feet 
to the fire, for they laid on their skins and furs, and were covered over with 
their blankets. They had a space left open on the ridge of their camp to let 
the smoke pass oat. They had their wigwam thatched with bark, so that it 
was tight and warm, and had a door in each end so that they could haul in 
their wood without much chopping. They laid there as warm and comfortable 
as a king in his palace. The Seneca chief used to gather in all his family 
connections and lay there all winter. In the spring they would scatter out 
over their hunting grounds, each family by themselves, and build their wig- 
wams for the summer. They were as careful of their game as we are of our cat- 
tle, and would kill nothing unless wanted for present use. * * * Thej 
had no government expenses, no taxes to pay, no jails to build, no locks to 
buy. I think the Indian is the happiest man in the world, in the wilderness. 
* * * I never knew they had any language in which to swear. He will 
eat all kinds of animals and fish and horses, or anything that a dog will eat, 
and sometimes I have thought what a dog would not eat. They often paini 



228 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

their faces in streaks; that denotes peace and friendship. They love whisky 
and get drunk often." 

Describing one of their drunken frolics, Mr. Cackler says: "They got 
their whisky and had a suit made like a little boy's suit, all whole, but open 
before so they could stick their arms and legs in. It was fringed all around, 
and had claws of several kinds^deer, bear, turkey, coon, etc. The one that 
was dancing would jump, hop and kick around the floor, * * * and when 
he got tired he would take a drink and another would try his hand. But 
when they got perfectly drunk, the claws rattling looked more like the devil 
than anything I ever saw. * * * Then the squaws went into it and got 
as drunk as could be, and went tumbling around on the ground. But after 
they got through they looked as though they had lost their best friends." 



CHAPTER IV. 

The Pioneers of Portage County— Their Heroic Perseverance and Pri- 
vations—New England Transplanted on the Connecticut Western 
Reserve— The First Settlement Made Within The Limits of Portage 
County— First Settlers of Mantua, Ravenna, Aurora and Atwateb 
Tow^NSHiPS— At water Hall, the First White Child Born in the 
County— First Settlers of Palmyra, Deerfield, Nelson, Rootstown, 
Randolph, Suffield, Charlestown, Hiram, Franklin, Shalersville, 
Edinburg. Windham, Paris, Brimfield, Freedom, Streetsboro and 
Garrettsville Townships — The Portage-Summit Pioneer Association. 

LESS than one hundred years ago there was not a single white inhabitant 
a permanent settler throughout the length and breadth of the State of 
Ohio; less than eighty-seven years ago there was not a single white person in 
Portage County. Could those who. only see this country as it now is, borrow 
the eyes of those who helped make the transformation, their amazement could 
not be depicted by words. In place of the now smiling fields and comfortable 
homes, naught but a vast wilderness of forest would greet the sight. The true 
story of the first settlement of Portage County has never been told. Those 
early pioneers were not seeking fortunes, nor fame; thej^ were intent only on 
making a home for their children, and from that laudable impelling motive 
has arisen the splendid structure of Western civilization we see all around us. 
It is astonishing how rapidly accurate and reliable information concerning the 
pioneer days is perishing. The traditions of those early times have been very 
carelessly kept, and whoever seeks to collect them finds much difiiculty in 
doing so. Yet, what does remain has been carefully and cautiously collated, 
keeping ever in view the unreliability of certain sources, but gleaning the 
rich kernels from out the debris of shells. The present generation can form 
no just conception of the trials, tireless labors, sacrifices and privations to 
which the first settlers heroically submitted. These men whose industry, enter- 
prise and perseverance wx'ought from out nature's wilds the great prosperity 
which in to-day's sunlight, from every hillside and glen, looks up to smile 
upon us, have, in the benefactions they have bestowed upon their children, by 
leaving this to them for an inheritance, proved themselves greater heroes, 
because their achievements were nobler and better, than if they had laid the 
trophies of a blood-bought conquest upon their escutcheons. Courage upon 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 229 

the soil of carnage wins the wreath of laurel that evanescently bedecks the 
brow of victory, but true, manly courage upon life's broad field of battle 
should bestow a more brilliant and fadeless diadem than ever pressed the war- 
rior's brow, for the peaceful conquests of ax and plow are more fruitful of 
benefits to mankind than those of the sword and the mere scorn of death. 

.From the time that the Connecticut Land Company put their lands upon 
the market, exaggerated reports of the wonderful richness of the Connecticut 
Western Reserve, or New Connecticut, as it was called, were in circulation- 
Single individuals, parties and companies made their way to the far-off wilds, 
nearly all of whom either returned with or sent back to their homes glowing 
accounts, the result of which was an exodus to and a rapid settlement of thi? 
section. The new comers were at first almost exclusively from Connecticut 
and Massachusetts. They brought with them their religious ideas and preju- 
dices, their virtues and social customs, their peculiarities, and above all, their 
New England thrift, and to such an extent that for many years the inhabitants 
of Portage County, as well as the entire tract of territory knowu as the Con- 
necticut Western Reserve, so closely resembled their ancestors in their modes 
of life and veins of thought, as to be but a transplantation of, or an enlarge- 
ment upon, the land of the "Pilgrim Fathers." The two upper tiers of town- 
ships, especially, were peopled from Massachusetts and Connecticut, and a 
native of any other State was rarely to be found. The pioneers of the two 
southern tiers of townships, however, were from New England and Pennsvl- 
vania, with here and there a Virginian, a Carolinian, or a Marylander. 
Many Germans came in later, bringing with them their hardiness of constitu- 
tion and industry, and bringing up the land upon which they settled to the 
highest point of fertility. In the eastern portion of the county many of that 
sturdy race, the Welsh, have settled, and in one township largely outnumber 
the purely American population. 

In those early days the entire communitv were producers— every man 
woman, boy and girl had their duties to perform. They lived in comparative 
social equality, and the almighty dollar did not form a barrier between the 
rich and the poor; a man was esteemed not for his money bags, but for actual 
merit. A.11 aristocratic distinctions were left beyond the mountains, and the 
only society lines were to separate the bad from the good. Rich and poor 
dressed alike, homespun being almost universal, whilst the primitive cabin was 
furnished with the same style of simplicity. Bedsteads often consisted of 
forked sticks driven in the ground, with crosspoles to support the clapboards 
or cord. We have gi-own older, in many respects, if not wiser, and could not 
think of living on what our ancestors lived. But this is an age of progress 
and improvement, and these observations are made by way of contrasting the 
past with the present. The pioneers who endured the hardships, and ofttimes 
the dangers from wild beasts and still wilder men have, with few exceptions, 
passed to their final account, and all that remains for their descendants to do 
18 to keep bright the recollections of such names and such events as have come 
down to them, for the memory of their deeds should be "written in characters 
of living light upon the firmament, there to endure as radiant as if every let- 
ter were traced in shining stars." 

The first settlement within the bounds of what is now Portage County was 
made in the fall of 1798, in Mantua Township, on Lot 24, by Abram S. Honev, 
who erected a log cabin, made a clearing, and put out a small crop of wheat' 
which was harvested the following season by his brother-in-law, Ruf us Ed- 
wards, who owned the land, but who had sent Honey in advance to prepare the 
way. A man by the name of Peter French is said to have been at the point 



230 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

■where Edwards settled, as early as Honey, but be made no permanent settle- 
ment and may have been simply a helper of the latter. William Crooks was 
the next permanent settler to come in after those named above, and he built a 
cabin and made a clearing on the southwest part of Lot 29. He remained a 
resident of Mantua till 1854, dying at the age of eighty-five. Elias Harmon 
arrived at the' clearing Honey had made on the 12th of June, 1799, where he 
remained a short time, and then proceeded to Aurora, where he had engaged 
to make some improvements on the land of Ebenezer Sheldon. Harmon came 
in company with three other men who have had considerable local notoriety: 
Benjamin Tappan, Jr., of Ravenna, afterward a resident of Steubenville; David 
Hudson, of Summit County, and Jotham Atwater, of Euclid. Mr. Harmon 
was for a number of years one of the leading citizens of the county and left 
many descendants. He was the first Treasurer of the county. 

In June, 1799, Benjamin Tappan, Jr., son of Benjamin Tappan, of North- 
ampton, Mass., one of the principal proprietors of the present territory known 
as Ravenna Township, set out from his home in the East to make a settlement 
on the land of his father. On his journey, Mr. Tappan fell in with David 
Hudson, at Gerondaquet Bay, N. Y., wl\om he took in his boat'and assisted on 
his way to what is now Summit County. In company they overtook Elias Har- 
mon in a small boat with his wife, bound to Mantua. At Niagara they found 
the river full of ice, which compelled them to convey their boats to some dis- 
tance around and above the Falls. Proceeding on their dangerous way vast 
bodies of floating ice impeded their progress, and they had to get out upon the 
shore and drag their boats along with I'opes till they were clear of the stronger 
current running to the Falls. When they arrived at the mouth of the lake 
they also found it full of floating ice, and had to remain tbei'e several days 
before proceeding. Ofi" Ashtabula County their boats were driven ashore in a 
storm, and that of Mr. Harmon stove to pieces, the latter traveling thence by 
land to his destination. Tappan and his companions sailed along the shore- 
line till they arrived at Cleveland, which consisted at that time of one log- 
cabin. Entering the Cuyahoga River and following its sinuosities, but know- 
ing nothing at all of its depth, they soon found that they would have to either 
abandon their boats or di'ag them over the frequent rapids in the river. After 
much difficulty, however, they passed safely onward, and, judging from the dis- 
tance traveled, thought that they were in about the latitude of the township of 
which they were in search. They landed at a point where now is the town of Bos- 
ton, in Summit County, where Tappan left all of his goods under a tent with a 
hired man, and taking Benjamin Bigsby with him commenced to cut out a road to 
Eavenna. They built a sled and witb a yoke of oxen Mr. Tappan had bought 
in Ontario County, N. Y., conveyed a load of his farming utensils to his set- 
tlement in the southeast corner of the township, where, owing to delays, a 
cabin was not finished till the first of the following year, ISOO. He subse- 
quently erected a house about one mile east of Ravenna on the Marcus Heath 
farm. Returning for a second load, he found that his efi"ects had been aban- 
doned and partly plundered, and to make it still worse, one of his oxen became 
overheated and died. From a sketch of Hon. Benjamin Tappan, published 
in the Democratic Review for June, 1840, we extract the following: 

"The death of one of his oxen left him in a vast forest, distant from any 
habitation, without a team, and what was still worse, with but a single dol- 
lar in money. He was not depressed for an instant by these untoward cir- 
cumstances. He sent one of his men through the woods, with a compass, to 
Erie, Penn. , a distance of about one hundred miles, requesting from 
Capt. Lyman, the commandant at the fort, a loan of money. At the same 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 231 

time, he himself followed the township lines to Youngstown, where he became 
acquainted with Col. James Hillman, who did not hesitate to sell him an ox, 
on credit, at a fair price — an act of generosity which proved of great value, 
as the want of a team must have broken up his settlement. The unexpected 
delays upon the journey, and other hindrances, prevented them from raising a 
crop this season, and they had, after the provisions brought with them were 
exhausted, to depend for meat upon their skill in hunting and purchases from 
the Indians, and for meal upon the scanty supplies procured from west- 
tern Pennsylvania. Having set out with the determination to spend the win- 
ter, he erected a log-cabin, into which himself and one Bigsby, whom he had 
agreed to give one hundi'ed acres of land on condition of settlement, moved 
on the first day of January, 1800, before which they lived under a bark camp 
and tent." 

During the spring following the removal of Tappan into his first cabin, 
which stood on the Capt. J. D. King farm, several other settlers came 
into Ravenna, among whom were William Chard and Conrad Boos- 
inger, the latter coming in August, and bringing his wife, sons George and 
John, and daughter Polly. Boosinger settled on 200 acres of land about 
one and one-half miles southeast of the present town of Ravenna, made a 
clearing and sowed it in wheat. Chard located on Lot 33. Boosinger being 
a tanner, constructed a couple of vats soon after he came, which was the first 
effort in that direction, and the first public enterprise in the way of manufac- 
tures in the county. The privations of these early settlers of the Western 
Reserve cannot now be described or realized, and why a young lawyer like 
Benjamin Tappan, Jr., surrounded with all of the comforts of an Eastern 
home, would venture out into an unknown wilderness, seems to us now some- 
thing wonderful. 

During the same month in which Benjamin Tappan and his party arrived 
in Ravenna, Ebenezer Sheldon, of Suffield, Conn., came into Aurora Township, 
and with the assistance of Elias Harmon and his wife, made a settlement on 
Lot 40. After the erection of a cabin and making a small clearing in the prim- 
itive forest, Harmon and wife moved to Mantua Township, where they ever 
afterward resided. Sheldon then returned to Connecticut, and in the following 
spring, 1800, came out to his new home, bringing his wife, four sons and two 
daughters. They rode the entire distance in a wagon drawn by a yoke of 
oxen, and leading a pair of young horses. They came safely as far as War- 
ren, which at that time consisted of a few log structures, but after leaving 
there a storm overtook them in the woods and they were very near perishing 
from falling trees. They managed to avoid all accidents, however, but were 
literally penned in and had to remain in the woods all night, only being 
released the next day by getting assistance and cutting a road out. One of the 
daughters of this sturdy old pioneer, the year following their arrival, married 
Amzi AtAvater, of Mantua, one of the surveyors who accompanied Cleveland in 
the survey of the Western Reserve, and who afterward became one of the Asso- 
ciate Judges of the Court of Common Pleas, and a leading citizen of 
the county. Ebenezer Sheldon and his family were the only inhabitants of 
Aurora for three years after they arrived there, but in 1803 quite a number 
came in, among whom were Samuel Forward and his family, from Granby, 
Conn. The next year came James M. Henry, John Cochran, Jr., David Ken- 
nedy, Sr., Ebenezer Kennedy, Samuel Ferguson and several others. Within 
a year or two afterward came Moses Eggleston, father of Gen. Nelson Eggles- 
ton; also Joseph Eggleston, brother of Moses, together with Capt. Perkins, 
Col. Ebenezer Harmon, Isaac Blair and others from Massachusetts and Con- 
necticut. 



232 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

Early in April, 1799, two months before any settlers had arrived in Ravenna 
or Aurora Townships, and only six months after Honey had made his clearing 
in Mantua, six persons made their way into what is now Atwater Township. 
They came from Wallingford, Conn., and were Capt. Caleb Atwater, Jonathan 
Merrick, Peter Bunnell, Asahel Blakesley and Asa Hall and his wife. This 
party, headed by Atwater, surveyed the township into lots, and in the fall all 
of them, with the exception of Hall and his wife, returned to their homes in 
the East. From the time of the arrival of this first settler till the spring of 
1801 — two years — Hall and his wife were the only persons in the township, 
his nearest neighbor being Lewis Ely, over in Deertield Township, who had 
come out with others shortly after Hall's arrival. Although having a lonesome 
time during those two years in the wilderness, an incident happened within 
Hall's household that was calculated in a measure to relieve the tedium of, 
whilst it imposed additional cares upon, the life of this pioneer couple. The 
"incident" was a child born to them in the spring of 1800, which was 
promptly and appropriately named Atwater Hall, and had the honor of being 
the first white child born in Portage County. Hall was considerable of a 
hunter, and as may well be supposed, had ample opportunity and game to 
gratify all his taste in that direction, but he eventually got tired of his lone- 
some life and moved in 1801 to near the Deertield Township line, where he 
could more easily reach the settlements in that township. About the time 
Hall moved from his first location, David Baldwin, Jr., came in from Walling- 
ford, Conn., and settled about two miles south of the Center of Atwater Town- 
ship. These two families for the next three years were the only persons in 
the township, but after that period settlers came in rapidly, most of whom 
were from Connecticut and Massachusetts, but about 1807 quite a number of 
persons from South Carolina settled here, among whom were Enos Davis, 
whose son Isaac, then a boy of ten years is still living, nearly ninety years of age; 
also, from the same State, came William Marshall, John Huttou and John Camp- 
bell. Among the arrivals shortly before and about the year 1806-07 were Jere- 
miah Jones, Josiah Mix, John H. Whittlesey, Caleb Mattoon, Asahel Blakesley 
and Ira and Amos Morse. David Baldwin, Jr., was the agent of Capt. Atwater, 
who owned not only the entire township, but several others and portions of others 
on the Reserve, he being one of the original members of the Connecticut Land 
Company. Maj. Ransom Baldwin, now I'esiding, at the advanced age of 
eighty-two years, on the original land located by his father, is the son of David 
Baldwin, he being born in 1802, the second male child born in the township 
of Atwater. The settlement of this portion of the county was very rapid, as 
the land was considered by most of the early comers to be better in the southern 
than in the northern portions of the county. 

The first settler in that division of the county known as Palmyra Township 
was David Daniels, who left his home in Grattan, Conn., in the spring of 
1799, and arrived there in June, locating on Lot 21, about one and a half 
miles south of the Center. At the drawing of the Connecticut Land Company, 
Palmyra Township fell to the lot of eight persons, Elijah Boardman being the 
principal owner, and these gentlemen, as an inducement to its settlement, gave 
Daniels 100 acres of land to go there, make a clearing and build a cabin, 
which he accordingly did. He put in a small crop of wheat, which was duly 
harvested the following season, and after threshing his crop carried a bushel 
of the grain on his shoulders to Poland, about thirty miles away, had it ground 
and returned with it to his humble cabin. Daniels was a soldier in the Rev- 
olutionary Army and died in 1813, having been highly respected. He was the 
first Justice of the Peace of Palmyra Township after its organization. Not 











(ZiAi^ , ^ ^ 



/U-^i^t-t^^, 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 235 

long after the settlement of Daniels, Ethelbert Baker came in and located 
about half a mile sovith of the Center on the west side of the road, and the 
next year, 1800, in the spring, William Bacon arrived and located one and a 
quarter miles south of the Center. In 1802 came a son-in-law of Nehemiah 
Bacon — E. Cutler — who located two miles south of the Center, and in 1804 
James McKelvey, of Pennsylvania, and Amasa Preston arrived. In 1805 
quite a delegation came in from Connecticut, among whom were David, Silas 
and Asahel Waller, John Tuttle, Jr., and Capt. John T. Baldwin; the latter, 
who was from Litchfield County, Conn., bringing his wife and three sons, one 
of whom. Squire Alva Baldwin, still resides upon the farm originally owned 
by his father. Capt. Baldwin for many years kept a tavern at the Center of 
Palmyra. In 1806 Truman Gilbert, Sr. , also, from Litchlield,.Conn. , arrived 
and settled west of the Center. He brought his wife, seven sons and one 
daughter, the latter still living at the age of eighty-six. 

In the spring of 1799 Lewis Day and Horatio Day, of Connecticut, came 
to their purchase of land in Deertield Township. They came through in a 
wagon drawn by horses, selected their locations, made a clearing and put out 
a crop of wheat. The first actual settler, however, was Lewis Ely, who came 
in July, bringing his family and settling down to business at once, while the 
Days in the fall returned to their homes in the East. Ely located on Lot 19, 
just east of the old grave-yard. The following year, 1800, was marked 
by the arrival in Deerfield of several men who afterward became prominent in 
the history of the county. In February Alva Day, John Campbell and Joel 
Thrall started from their homes in Connecticut and walked the entire distance, 
arriving here in March, after an exceedingly rough time, as the mountains 
over which they had to pass were covered with five or six feet of snow, subject- 
ing them to much su£fering from the cold. Provisions were exceedingly scarce 
at this time, and Lewis Ely and Alva Day were compelled to make a trip to the 
Ohio River to procure some bacon and meal. They constructed a canoe from 
a log, floated it down to the Ohio River, and at a point opposite Steubenville, 
procured what they needed and brought it back with an ox team. James 
Laughlin also came this year from Pennsylvania. In July Lewis Day returned 
bringing out his wife and six children: Horatio, Munn, Seth, Lewis, Jr., 
Solomon and Seba Day. During the next three or four years following 1800 
the township filled up very rapidly, many of the settlers coming from Penn- 
sylvania, Maryland and Virginia. Ephraim B. Hubbard, of Connecticut, 
came about this time, and in 1803 Daniel Diver and his family. Noah Grant, 
the grandfather of Gen. U. S. Grant, is supposed to have settled in Deerfield 
about 1804-05, where he opened a tannery and followed shoe-making. Noah 
brought his wife and little son Jesse, aged about ten years, father of the now 
illustrious Gen. U. S. Grant, to whom the country owes so much, for to him 
is largely due the conception of the proper mode to crush out the modern 
python of armed secession. Rev. Shadrack Bostwick, son in-law of Daniel 
Diver, came in 1803. This gentleman was one of the early circuit-riders of 
the Methodist Church, and was a physician as well. 

In the spring of 1800 there arrived in Nelson Township, from Becket, Mass., 
Delaun, Asahel and Isaac Mills, sons of Deacon Ezekiel Mills. The first two 
were married and brought out their families; the latter was single. They 
came in covered wagons and several weeks were occupied in the trip, during 
which time their money had dwindled down to less than 25 cents. Falling in 
with XJrial Holmes, the principal proprietor of Nelson Township, the brothers 
engaged with him to serve as ax-men to the surveyors, who were under charge 
of Amzi Atwater. After finishing their job, Delaun settled on a lot of 100 



236 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

acres which had been donated to him by Holmes. It was on the north side of 
the road just west of the Center. Asahel settled on a 100 acre lot on the 
north and south road. Delaun, or Capt. Delaun Mills, as he was afterward 
known, was looked upon as the Daniel Boone of this section, and a full 
account of him will be found in the sketch of Nelson Township. For nearly 
three years the two brothers, Delaun and Asahel (Isaac having returned to the 
East) and their families were the only white inhabitants of Nelson Township; 
but in the spring of 1803 seven families came in, they being Stephen Baldwin, 
Benjamin Stow and two sons, John Bancroft and four sons, Daniel Owen, two 
Stiles brothers, William and Thomas Kennedy and Asa Truesdell. In July, 
1804, Col. John Garrett, who founded Garrettsville, or rather built a mill at 
that point, and for whom that enterprising little town is named, came into 
Nelson, and about the same time Abraham Dyson and a German named Johann 
Noah, all coming from the State of Delaware. In the following year, 1805, 
came John Tinker, Nathaniel Bancroft, Martin Manley and Daniel Wood. 

Ephraim Root, principal proprietor of Rootstown Township, in company 
with a young man named Harvey Davenport, came out in the spring of 1800 
to survey his land, which was done, he returning in the fall, but leaving his 
companion in the wilderness, the unfortunate young man having suddenly 
died. In the spring of 1801 Mr. Root again came out, bringing his brother 
David, and they together made a settlement in the northeast corner of the 
township. They erected a two-story log-cabin not far from where now is 
Campbellsport. Nathan Muzzy, of whom frequent mention is made in several 
of the township sketches, came to the county about this time, and did the car- 
penter work for the Roots. Muzzy discovered the little lake which has ever 
since borne his name. Poor old Nathan! His life-story was a romance: A 
graduate of Yale, brilliant young minister, crossed in love, reason dethroned, a 
wanderer in the West, decrepit and penniless, buried by the hand of charity. 
In 1802 Henry O'Neill, an Irishman of fine education and a pioneer Justice 
of the Peace, and Samuel McCoy came in and together erected a cabin on Lot 
3, but McCoy, also an Irishman, afterward moved to Lot 28. In the fall of 
this year Michael Hartle and Frederick Caris, originally from Northumberland 
County, Penn., and the following year John Caria came in, also Arthur 
Anderson. In 1804, in addition to a number of others, the Chapmans made a 
settlement on Lot 4. Jacob and Abraham Reed settled on the southwest cor- 
ner of Lot 15. In the fall of 1805 Beman Chapman, brother of Ephraim, 
arrived with his wife and brother Nathan. Stephen Colton came about this 
time, and Gersham Bostwick in 1806. 

Bela Hubbard and Salmon Ward, natives of Middletown, Conn., in the year 
1802 removed with their families to Randolph Townshi}), from Jefferson 
County, N. Y., where they had resided since 1799. These two old pioneers 
made a halt about half a mile west of the Center, and the first night camped 
under a large tree, but the next day built them a cabin. Ward was taken sick, 
and upon recovery returned to his Eastern home. He, however, made three other 
trials at settling here, and as many times gave it up. The last time he started 
for the East was the last ever heard of him by his friends. For six weeks 
Hubbard was the solitary inhabitant of Randolph Township, and a lonely time 
he must have had of it, bat in July came Arad Upson, originally from Ply- 
mouth, Conn. ; also Joseph Harris, from the same State. In the fall came Calvin 
Ward and John Ludington. In the spring of 1803 Josiah Ward, wife and six 
children moved in, and daring the summer Jehiel Savage and Timothy Culver 
arrived from Atwater, where they had at first located. In the fall Salmon 
Ward, on his third return trip, brought with him Aaroa Weston, Levi Davis, 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 237 

and two young men named Carey and Smith, the latter two simply coming to 
trade with the Indians. In November, 1804, Ebenezer Goss, and in Decern 
ber following Eliakim Merriman, the first from Plymouth and the last from 
Wallingford, Conn., came in. July 17, 1805, Oliver Dickinson and family, 
from East Granville, Mass., arrived. He was a blacksmith by trade, and one 
of the most useful members of the first settlement. During this same year 
Isaac Merriman from Connecticut, Archibald Coon from Pennsylvania, John 
Goss, and Jeremiah Sabin and bis son Abel located in the township. In 
1806 came Hiram Raymond, Thomas Miller, Nathan Sears and son Elisha, 
and Rev. Henry Ely, all of Connecticut, William Thornton from Pennsylva- 
nia and Daniel Cross from Vermont. In 1807 Deacon Stephen Butler and 
Caleb Wetmore moved in from Connecticut, but removed to Stow Township in a 
few years. Dr. Rufus Belding, from Cattaraugas County, N. Y., settled here 
this year, whei'e he practiced his profession for nearly thirty years. Among 
the leading names of settlers in the few years succeeding the last date are 
those of Nathaniel Bancroft, Sylvester Tinker and Deacon James Coe. 

"In the southwestern corner of the county a settlement was made in May, 
1802, by Royal Pease, a native of Suffield, Conn., who owned a considerable 
portion of the land comprised in the township now known as Suffield. Pease 
settled on what is now known as the Kent Farm, and made a clearing, built a 
cabin and put out a crop of wheat. This old pioneer remained alone at his 
settlement for nearly a year, but the following spring after his arrival Ben- 
jamin Baldwin made his appearance, and soon after him David Way and 
family. In 1804 John Fritch, a Pennsylvania German, located at the little 
lake that has since borne his name. In this year also came from Connecticut 
Daniel Warner, Ezekiel Tupper, Bradford Waldo and Champlin Minard. In 
1805 Martin Kent and family and Jonathan Foster came in; also, Samuel 
Hale and his sons Thomas and Orestes. During the next few years settlers 
were quite numerous, and among the most noted was Moses Adams, from Mas- 
sachusetts. Many Germans have from time to time settled in Suffield Town- 
ship, and form a large portion of its present population. 

In Charlestown Township a man by the name of Abel Forsha, from Mary- 
land, about 1803, squatted on a piece of land afterward known as " Farnham's 
Hill," where he lived for a short time, afterward removing to Ravenna; but 
the first permanent settler was John Campbell, who moved here from Deerfield 
Township in 1805, and remained throughout his life one of the leading citi- 
zens of the county. A company from Blanford and Granville, Mass., com- 
posed of thirteen families, gave the township an impetus in 1809. 

Hiraui Township, which originally comprised the territory now known as 
Hiram, Mantua, Shalersville, Freedom, Windham and Nelson, I'eceived its 
first settlers in 1802, when Elijah Mason, Elisha Hutchinson and Mason Til- 
den came in and settled respectively as follows: Mason, who was from Leba- 
non, Conn., selected the west half of Lot 23; Hutchinson, who was from Her- 
kimer County, N. Y. , also selected a portion of Lot 23, and Tilden, from Con- 
necticut, selected Lot 22. In the fall they all returned to their homes in the 
East. John Fleming came about the same time, but remained only one year. 
In 1803 the three first-named persons again came out and made improvements 
on their land. Mason cleared twenty-two acres, built a cabin, and put out a 
crop of wheat. They all then again returned to their homes. Three men 
whom Mason and Tilden had in their employ, liking the country, remained. 
These men were Richard Redden and Jacob and Samuel Wirt, all from 
Pennsylvania. In 1804 William Fenton and Cornelius Baker settled on Lot 
38, the first on the east half of the west half, and the other on the 



238 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

west half of the same. Eoswell Mason, son of Elijah, and some others, 
came out in 1807, but as late as- 1809 the number of inhabitants was only 
twenty. In 1811 the Youngs came from Connecticut; also Elisha Hutch- 
inson. For five or six years after the last date many settlers came in, 
and an enumeration of them will be found in the sketch of Hiram Township. 

John Haymaker, a native of Pennsylvania, from near Pittsburgh, in the 
fall of 1805 made the first settlement in Franklin Township. He brought 
his wife and three children, and at first located on the Cuyahoga, just west of 
where the upper bridge now is in Kent. The following spring George Hay- 
maker, a brother of John, and their father, Jacob, arrived. The next year 
the Haymakers built a mill, the Cuyahoga River at the point where they 
settled affording ample water power. Settlement in Franklin was rather slow 
for many years, considering the natural advantages of the township. Jacob 
Reed, who had settled in Rootstown in 1804, came to Franklin in 1811. and 
purchased the Haymaker Mill, and ran it for several years, when it was in turn 
purchased by George B. DePeyster, For a more extended account of the 
early settlement of Franklin, the reader is referred to the two chapters on that 
township. 

The first settlement in Shalersville Township was made in the spring of 
1806 by Joel Baker, from Tolland County, Conn. He brought his wife and 
one child and located on Lot 46, erecting his cabin and digging a well nearly 
opposite where the hotel at the Center now stands. For two years Baker and 
his family were alone in this part of the wilderness, but in 1808 Simeon 
Belden and Calvin Crane, from Say brook, Conn., came in, located their future 
homes and then returned to Trumbull County, Ohio, where they had resided 
several years, but the following spring came out for permanent residence. 
Hezekiah Hine, Daniel Keyes and his son, Asa D. Keyes, also came in 1808. 
In 1810 William Coolman, Sr., and family came from Middletown, Conn. ; 
also, Daniel Burroughs, and his sons, Asa K. and Greenhood, from Vermont, 
and others. In 1814 Silas Crocker, then a lad of fifteen years, came in with 
Job and Benoni Thompson. Gen. David Mcintosh and Sylvester Beecher 
came later. These three last-named were all poor boys, but they each left 
their impress on the county of their adoption. 

Eber Abbott, of Tolland County, Conn., in the spring of 1811 came to 
Edinburg Township and settled on Lot 2, Subdivision 5, and shortly after 
him his bi'other-in-law, Lemuel Chapman, located near him. In 1813 a man 
by the name of Howard came in and located on Silver Creek. In 1815 Alan- 
son and Justin Eddy, from Williamstown, arrived with their families, having 
come the entire distance in sleighs. Justin made his settlement on the now 
fine farm of Mr. Theodore Clark. Alanson settled on the farm afterward 
owned by C. H. Rowell. Robert Calvin, a Virginian, came about 1816, and 
settled on Lot 8. He was the father of Mr. John Calvin, who now resides in 
the northeastern portion of the township. David Trowbridge and Sylvester 
Gilbert also came at this time. Richard M. Hart came in 1817, and Adnah 
H. Bostwick in 1819. 

In 1810 the Becket Land Company was formed in Becket, Berkshire Co., 
Mass., for the purchase and settlement of the lands now embraced in Windham 
Township, most of which then belonged to Gov. Caleb Strong, of that State. 
The company consisted of sixteen persons, viz. : Bills Messenger, John Seely, 
Jeremiah Lyman, Aaron P. Jagger, Benjamin C. Perkins, Elijah Alford, Alpheus 
Streator, Benjamin Higley, Elisha Clark, Isaac Clark, Ebenezer N. Messenger, 
Thatcher Conant, Nathan Birchard, Enos Kingsley, Dillingham Clark and 
Gideon Bush. Early in 1811 the company sent out four young men— Elijah 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 239 

Alford, Jr., Oliver Alford, Ebenezer O. Messenger and Nathan H. Messenger — 
to make some preparation for the coming population. On their arrival in 
Windham, March 15, the Alfords began an improvement on Lot 84, and 
erected a cabin, which was the first built in the township. The Messengers- 
built a cabin on Lot 82. These two cabins constituted VVindam Township in 
March, 1811, and the population up to the 2t7h of that month consisted of the 
four pioneer boys previously mentioned. On the 27th Wareham Loomis and 
family moved in from Nelson. This was the first family in the township. 
Loomis put up a cabin on that part of Lot 92 subsequently owned by Daniel 
Jagger. Hiram Messenger, a son of Bills, one of the Becket Land Company, 
arrived with his family in June, 1811, being the first installment of the pro- 
prietors. He settled on Lot 76. His father came with him, and stayed sev- 
eral months, assisting Hiram in making improvements, and then returned to 
his home. In July, 1811, Alpheus Streator, Benjamin Higley, Ebenezer N. 
Messenger, Gideon Bush, Thatcher Conant and Jeremiah Lyman arrived and 
settled on their lands, and the following October Deacon Elijah Alford joined 
the settlement. From this time forward settlers continued to arrive at inter- 
vals, and this portion of the county rapidly increased in population. 

In consequence of a certain reputation for an almost uninhabitable swamp- 
iness, Paris Township, although excellent land, was not settled very early, at 
least not as early as it should have been under the circumstances. Richard 
Hudson, a Pennsylvanian, however, ventured in about June, 1811, and drove 
his stakes on Lot 21. John Bridges, son-in-law of Hudson, came the next 
year, and about the same time John Cox and John Young. In 1815 Chauncy 
Hawley and William Selby, in 1816 Brainard, Newton and Thomas Selby, 
and in 1817 Austin Wilson and John Smith arrived. 

The first permanent settler in Brimfield Township was John Boosinger, who 
removed from Ravenna Township in 1816, settling on Lot 39. In November 
of the same year Henry Thorndike and his family, with his brother Israel, 
arrived. In the employ of the Thorndikes was Abner H. Lanphare, who lived 
to an advanced age. The following January Deacon Alpheus Andrews settled 
near the Center. In the year 1817 many settlers came, whose names will be 
found in the chapter on Brimfield. 

Charles H. Paine, son of Gen. Paine, of Painesville, who had married a 
daughter of Elijah Mason, of Hii'am Township, settled in Freedom Township 
in the spring of 1818, on Lots 31 and 41, and from that time till 1822 himself 
and family were the only inhabitants of Freedom. In the spring of the year 
last named, however, thirteen persons arrived, all in one family: Thomas 
Johnston, wife and eleven children. In 1823 came Newell Day, and Enos and 
Asa Wadsworth; in 1824, Rufus Ranney, father of Judge R. P. Ranney, and 
in 1825 Paul Larkcom, father of A. C. Larkcom, still a resident of Freedom 
Township. 

Streetsboro Township settled up very rapidly from the time the first settler 
made his appearance in 1822, that person being Stephen Myers, who located 
on Lot 82. He made a clearing and put up a distillery. In 1824 a number 
of other persons came in and rapidly filled up the township. 

Col. John Garrett, of Delaware, as noticed elsewhere, was the first settler 
of what is now Garrettsville Township. 

For the purpose of keeping the I'emembrance of the old pioneer days fresh 
in the minds of the present generation, and as a humble monument to their 
deeds, an association was formed a few years ago, entitled " The Portage - 
Summit Pioneer Association." From the eighth annual report of the Secre- 
tary, Dr. A. M. Sherman, of Kent, we glean the following: 



240 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

" Some of you will remember that on the 10th of February, 1874, seventy- 
three persons met at the residence of the venerable Samuel Olin, in Streets- 
boro, mainly by invitation of his sister, Mrs. J. B. Stratton, and her venerable 
husband. The primary object was to enjoy a social reunion of " Old Folks," 
and partake of Father Olin's generous hospitality. At that meeting Christian 
Cackler, being the first white boy that ever crossed the Cuyahoga River here, 
invited all those present and many others to meet at his pleasant home in 
October following to enjoy his hospitality. At that meeting an organization 
was effected that has enlarged into the grand proportions of your present 
organization. There have joined up to this meeting 620 persons, and out of 
this number (up to the fall of 1882) 112 have died. Comparatively few of 
those present at the organization remain. Another decade will evidently wit- 
ness the departure from earth of the last of the original members. The 
society, since it extended its borders, has rapidly grown, including as it now 
does in its territory all of Portage and Summit Counties. All above sisty 
years of age are permitted to become members." 

The annual meetings of the association are occasions of much interest and 
enjoyment, as many as 5,000 to 6,000 persons being in attendance. Eloquent 
addresses are delivered, music by the Pioneer Band discoursed, and a sump- 
tuous dinner served at the beautiful grounds selected in the village of Kent. 
This is as it should be, for the people of to-day scarcely realize or appreciate 
how much they owe to the large-hearted pioneer fathers and mothers, who, 
with their children, braved the perils of the wilderness; who reared their 
families in the fear of God, and implanted within them many of the virtues 
necessary to the welfare of humanity, then 'passed from the scene of action, 
leaving to their descendants an inheritance that should ever be cherished and 
kept in sacred remembrance. The history of Portage County would be incom- 
plete without fitting notice of those pioneers who, by reason of their limited 
sphere of action, could not become conspicuous in the great drama of life, but 
whose busy hands and conscientious regard of duty made them necessary fac- 
tors in the establishment of the solid foundation upon which our republican 
form of government is embedded. It is a little thing to preserve their names 
in the pages of history, yet it is all that is left to do, for their lives were much 
alike; they met the stern necessities of the hour, and were content in the con- 
sciousness of duty well done. 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 241 



CHAPTER V. 

Pioneer Days and Trials— Habitations of the First Settlers— Furni- 
ture, Food and Medicine— Habits, Labor and Dress— Early Manners 
and Customs— Bees and Weddings— The Hominy Block and Pioneer 
Mills— Prices of Store Goods and Produce— Items From an Old Cash 
Book— Mode of Living— Churches and Schools— Period of the War 
OF 1812— Prices After the War— First Crops Eaised in the County- 
Agricultural Implements of the Pioneers, and Subsequent Improve- 
ments Made in Them— Pioneer Farming— Cheese and Butter Statis- 
tics—First Stock Brought into the County— Stock Statistics Since 
1840— Statistics of Wheat, Corn, Oats and Hay— Total Valuation of 
Property by Decades— Portage County Agricultural Societies— Por- 
tage County Horticultural Society. 

THE first settlers who built their cabins in the unbroken forest of Portage 
County came not to enjoy a life of lotus-eating and ease. They could, 
doubtless, admire the pristine beauty of the scenes that unveiled before them, 
the vernal green of the forest, and the loveliness of all the works of nature; 
they could look forward with happy anticipation to the lives they were to lead 
in the midst of all this beauty, and to the rich reward that would be theirs 
from the cultivation of the mellow, fertile soil; but they had first to work. 
The dangers they were exposed to were serious ones. The Indians could not 
fully be trusted, and the many stories of their depredations in the earlier 
Eastern settlements made the pioneers of Ohio apprehensive of trouble. The 
larger wild beasts were a cause of much dread, and the smaller ones a source 
of great annoyance. Added to this was tlie liability to sickness which always 
exists in a new country. In the midst of all the loveliness of the surround- 
ings, there was a sense of loneliness that could not be dispelled, and this was 
a far greater trial to the men and women who first dwelt in the "Western coun- 
try than is generally imagined. The deep-seated, constantly recurring feeling 
of isolation made many stout hearts turn back to the older settlements and the 
abodes of comfort, the companionship and sociability they had abandoned in 
their early homes to take up a new life in the wilderness. 

The pioneers making the tedious journey from the East and South by the 
rude trails, arrived at their places of destination with but very little with 
which to begin the battle of life. They had brave hearts and strong arms, 
however, and they were possessed of invincible determination. Frequently 
they came on without their families to make a beginning, and this having been 
accomplished, would return to their old homes for their wives and children. 
The first thing done, after a temporary shelter from the rain had been pro- 
vided, was to prepare a little spot of ground for some crop, usually corn. 
This was done by girdling the trees, clearing away the underbrush, if there 
chanced to be any, and sweeping the surface with fire. Five, ten, or even fif- 
teen acres of land might thus be prepared and planted the first season. In 
the autumn the crop would be carefully gathered and garnered with the least 
possible svaste, for it was the food supply of the pioneer and his family, and 
life itself depended, in part, upon its safe preservation. While the first crop 
was growing the pioneer had busied himself with the building of his cabin, 
which must answer as a shelter from the storms of the coming winter, a pro- 



242 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

tection from the ravages of wild animals, and, possibly, a place of refuge 
from the red man. 

If a pioneer was completely isolated from his fellow-men, his position was 
certainly a hard one; for without assistance he could construct only a poor 
habitation. In such cases the cabin was generally made of light logs or poles, 
and was laid up roughly, only to answer the temporary purpose of shelter, until 
other settlers had come into the vicinity, by whose help a more solid structure 
could be built. Usually a number of men came into the country together, and 
located within such distance of each other as enabled them to perform many 
friendly and neighborly offices. Assistance was always readily given each pio- 
neer by all the scattered residents of the forest within a radius of several 
miles. The commonly followed plan of erecting a log-cabin was through a 
union of labor. The site of the cabin home was generally selected with refer- 
ence to a good water supply, often by a never-failing spring of pure water, or 
if such could not be found, it was not uncommon to first dig a well. When 
the cabin was to be built the few neighbors gathered at the site, and first cut 
down, within as close proximity as possible, a number of trees as nearly of a 
size as could be found, but ranging from a foot to twenty inches in diameter. 
Logs were chopped from these and rolled to a common center. This work, 
and that of preparing the foundation, would consume the greater part of the 
day, in most cases, and the entire labor would most commonly occupy two or 
three days — sometimes four. The logs were raised to their places with hand- 
spikes and " skid poles," and men standing at the corners with axes notched 
them as fast as they were laid in position. Soon the cabin would be built sev- 
eral logs high, and the work would become more difficult. The gables were 
formed by beveling the logs, and making them shorter and shorter, as each 
additional one was laid in place. These logs in the gables were held in place 
by poles, which extended across the cabin from end to end, and which served 
also as rafters upon which to lay the rived " clapboard " roof. The so-called 
" clapboards " were five or six feet in length, and were split from oak or ash 
logs, and made as smooth and flat as possible. They were laid side by side, 
and other pieces of split stuff laid over the cracks so as to effectually keep 
out the rain. Upon these logs were laid to hold them in place, and the logs 
were held by blocks of wood placed between them. 

The chimney was an important part of the structure, and taxed the build- 
ers, with their poor tools, to their utmost. In rare cases it was made of stone, 
but most commonly of logs and sticks laid up in a manner similar to those 
which formed the cabin. It was, in nearly all cases, built outside of the cabin, 
and at its base a huge opening was cut through the wall to answer as a fire- 
place. The sticks in the chimney were kept in place and protected from fire 
by mortar, formed by kneading and working clay and straw. Flat stones were 
procured for back and jambs of the fire-place. 

An opening was chopped or sawed in the logs on one side of the cabin for 
a doorway. Pieces of hewed timber, three or four inches thick, were fastened 
on each side by wooden pins to the end of the logs, and the door (if there was 
any) was fastened to one of these by wooden hinges. The door itself was a 
clumsy piece of wood-work. It was made of boards rived from an oak log, 
and held together by heavy cross-pieces. There was a wooden latch upon 
the inside, raised by a string which passed through a gimlet-hole, and hung 
upon the outside. From this mode of construction arose the old and well- 
known hospitable saying: " You will find the latch-string always out." It 
was pulled in only at night, and the door was thus fastened. Very many of 
the cabins of the pioneers had no doors of the kind here described, and the 





^^^'^ ^^^^ 





HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 245 

entrance was protected only by a blanket or skin of some wild beast suspended 
above it. 

The window was a small opening, often devoid of anything resembling a 
sash, and very seldom having glass. Greased paper was sometimes used in 
lieu of the latter, but more commonly some old garment constituted a curtain, 
which was the only protection from sun, rain or snow. 

The floor of the cabin was made of puncheons — pieces of timber split from 
trees about eighteen inches in diameter, and hewed smooth with the broad-ax. 
They were half the length of the floor. Many of the cabins first erected in 
this part of the country had nothing but the earthen floor. Sometimes the 
cabins had cellars, which were simply small excavations in the ground for the 
storage of a few articles of food, or perhaps cooking utensils. Access to the 
cellar was readily gained by lifting a loose puncheon. There was sometimes 
a loft used for various purposes, among others as the "guest chamber'' of the 
house. It was reached by a ladder, the sides of which were split pieces of a 
sapling, put together, like everything else in the house, without nails. 

The furniture of the log-cabin was as simple and primitive as the structure 
itself. A forked stick set in the floor and supporting two poles, the other ends 
of which were allowed to rest upon the logs at the end and side of the cabin, 
formed a bedstead. A common form of table was a split slab supported by four 
rustic legs set in augur holes. Three-legged stools were made in a similar 
simple manner. Pegs driven in augur holes into the logs of the wall supported 
shelves, and others displayed the limited wardrobe of the family not in use. A 
few other pegs, or perhaps a pair of deer horns, formed a rack where hung the 
rifle and powder-horn, which no cabin was without. These, and perhaps a few 
other simple articles brought from the "old home" formed the furniture and 
furnishings of the pioneer cabin. 

The utensils for cooking and the dishes for table use were few. The best 
were of pewter, which the careful housewife of the olden time kept shining as 
brightly as the most pretentious plate of our later-day fine houses. It was by 
no means uncommon that wooden vessels, either coopered or turned, were used 
upon the table. Knives and forks were few, crockery very scarce, and tin-ware 
not abundant. Food was simply cooked and served, but it was of the best and 
most wholesome kind. The hunter kept the larder supplied with venison, bear 
meat, squirrels, fish, wild turkeys, and the many varieties of smaller game. 
Plain corn-bread baked in a kettle, in the ashes, or upon a board in front of 
the great open fire-place answered the purpose of all kinds of pastry. The 
corn was among the earlier pioneers pounded or grated, there being no mills 
for grinding it for some time, and then only small ones at a considerable dis- 
tance away. The wild fruits in their season were made use of, and afi"orded 
a pleasant variety. Sometimes especial efi'ort was made to prepare a delicacy, 
as, for instance, when a woman experimented in mince pies by pounding 
wheat for the flour to make the crust, and used crab- apples for fruit. In the 
lofts of the cabins was usually to be found a collection of articles that made 
up the pioneer's materia medica — the herb medicines and spices, catnip, sage, 
tansy, fennel, boneset, pennyroyal and wormwood, each gathered in its sea- 
son; and there were also stores of nuts, and strings of dried pumpkin, with 
bags of berries and fi-uit. 

The habits of the pioneers were of a simplicity and purity in conformance 
to their surroundings and belongings. The men were engaged in the hercu- 
lean labor, day after day, of enlarging the little patch of sunshine about their 
homes, cutting away the forest, burning ofl" the brush and debris, preparing 
the soil, planting, tending, harvesting, caring for the few animals which they 

14 



246 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

brought with them or soon procured, and in hunting. While they were 
engaged in the heavy labor of the field and forest, or following the deer, or 
seeking other game, their helpmeets were busied with their household duties, 
providing for the day and for the winter coming on, cooking, making clothes, 
spinning and weaving. They were fitted by nature and experience to be the 
consorts of the brave men who first came into the Western wilderness. They 
were heroic in their endurance of hardship and privation and loneliness. Their 
industry was well directed and unceasing. Woman's work then, like man's, 
was performed under disadvantages which have been removed in later years. 
She had not only the common household duties to perform, but many others. 
She not only made the clothing, but the fabric for it. That old, old occupa- 
tion of spinning and of weaving, with which woman's name has been associated 
in all history, and of which the modern world knows nothing, except through 
the stories of those who are grandmothers now — that old occupation of spin- 
ning and of weaving, which seems surrounded with a glamour of romance as 
we look back to it through tradition and poetry, and which always conjures up 
thoughts of the graces and virtues of the dames and damsels of a generation 
that is gone — that old, old occupation of spinning and of weaving, was the 
chief industry of the pioneer women. Every cabin sounded with the softly- 
whirring wheel and the rythmic thud of the loom. The woman of pioneer 
times was like the woman described by Solomon: "She seeketh wool and flax, 
and worketh willingly with her hands; she layeth her hands to the spindle, 
and her hands hold the distafif." 

Almost every article of clothing, all of the cloth in use in the old log- cab- 
ins, was the product of the patient woman-weaver's toil. She spun the flax 
and wove the cloth for shirts, pantaloons, frocks, sheets and blankets. The 
linen and the wool, the " linsey-woolsey " woven by the housewife formed all 
of the material for the clothing of both men and women, except such articles 
as were made of skins. The men commonly wore the hunting-shirt, a kind of 
loose frock reaching half way down the figure, open before, and so wide as to 
lap over a foot or more upon the chest. This generally had a cape, which 
was often fringed with a raveled piece of cloth of a different color from that 
which composed the garment. The bosom of the hunting-shirt answered as a 
pouch, in which could be carried the various articles that the hunter or woods- 
man would need. It was always worn belted and made out of coarse linen, 
or linsey, or of dressed deer skin, according to the fancy of the wearer. 
Breeches were made of heavy cloth or of deer skin, and were often worn with 
leggings of the same material, or of some kind of leather, while the feet were 
most usually encased in moccasins, which were easily and quickly made, 
though they needed frequent mending. The deer-skin breeches or drawers 
were very comfortable when dry, but when they became wet were very cold to 
the limbs, and the next time they were put on were almost as stiff as if made 
of wood. Hats or caps were made of the various native furs. The women 
were clothed in linsey petticoats, coarse shoes and stockings, and wore buck- 
skin gloves or mittens when any protection was required for the hands. All 
of the wearing apparel, like that of the men, was made with a view to being 
serviceable and comfortable, and all was of home manufacture. Other articles 
and finer ones were sometimes worn, but they had been brought from former 
homes, and were usually relics handed down from parents to children. Jew- 
elry was not common, but occasionally some ornament was displayed. In the 
cabins of the more cultivated pioneers were usually a few books, and the long 
winter evenings were spent in poring over these well-thumbed volumes by the 
light of the great log-fire, in knitting, mending, curing furs, or some similar 
occupation. 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 247 

Hospitality was simple, imaflfected, hearty, unbounded. Whisky was in 
common use, and was furnished on all occasions of sociality. Nearly every 
settler had his barrel stored away. It was the universal drink at merry-mak- 
ings, bees, house-warmings, weddings, and was always set before the traveler 
who chanced to spend the night or take a meal in the log-cabin. It was the 
good old-fashioned whisky, "clear as amber, sweet as musk, smooth as oil," 
that the few octogenarians and nonagenarians of to-day recall to memory with 
an unctuous gusto and a suggestive smack of the lips. The whisky came from 
the Monongahela district, and was boated up the streams or hauled in wagons 
across the country. A few years later stills began to make their appearance, 
and an article of peach brandy and rye whisky manufactured; the latter was 
not held in such high esteem as the peach brandy, though used in greater 
quantities. 

As the settlement increased, the sense of loneliness and isolation was dis- 
pelled, the asperities of life were softened and its amenities multiplied: social 
gatherings became more numerous and more enjoyable. The log rollings, 
harvestings and husking-bees for the men, and the apple-butter making and 
the quilting parties for the women, furnished frequent occasions for social 
intercourse. The early settlers took much pleasure and pride in rifle shooting, 
and as they were accustomed to the use of the gun as a means, often, of 
obtaining a subsistence, and relied upon it as a weapon of defense, they exhib- 
ited considerable skill. 

A wedding was the event of most importance in the sparsely settled new 
country. The young people had every inducement to marry, and generally 
did so as soon as able to provide for themselves. When a marriage was to be 
celebrated, all the neighborhood turned out. It was customary to have the 
ceremony performed before dinnei-, and in order to be in time, the groom and 
his attendants usually started from his father's house in the morning for that 
of the bride. All went on horseback, riding in single file along the narrow 
trail. Arriving at the cabin of the bride's parents, the ceremony would be 
performed, and after that, dinner served. This would be a substantial back- 
woods feast of beef, pork, fowls, and bear or deer meat, with such vegetables, 
as could be procured. The greatest hilarity prevailed during theraeal. After 
it was over the dancing began, and was usually kept up till the next morning, 
though the newly made husband and wife were as a general thing put to bed 
in the most approved fashion, and with considerable formality, in the middle 
of the evening's hilarity. The tall young men, when they went on the floor 
to dance, had to take their places with care between the logs that supported 
the loft floor, or they were in danger of bumping their heads. The figures of 
the dances were three and four hand reels, or square sets and jigs. The com- 
mencement was always a square four, which was followed by "jigging it off," 
or what is sometimes called a "cutout jig." The "settlement" of a j^oung 
couple was thought to be thoroughly and generously made when the neighbors 
assembled and raised a cabin for them. 

During all the early years of the settlement, varied with occasional pleas- 
ures and excitements, the great work of increasing the tillable ground went 
slowly on. The implements and tools were few and of the most primitive 
kinds, but the soil that had long held in reserve the accumulated richness of 
centuries, produced splendid harvests, and the husbandman was well rewarded 
for his labor. The soil was warmer then than now, and the season earlier. 
The wheat was occasionally pastured in the spring to keep it from growing up 
so fast as to become lodged. The harvest came early, and the yield was often 
from twenty to thirty bushels per acre. Corn grew fast, and roasting ears 
were to be had by the 1st of August in most seasons. 



248 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

When the corn grew too hard for roasting ears, and was yet too soft to 
grind in the mill, it was reduced to meal bv a grater. Next to the grater came 
the hominy block, an article in common use among the pioneers. It consisted 
simply of a block of wood — a section of a tree perhaps — with a hole burned 
or dug into it a foot deep in which corn was pulverized with a pestle. Some- 
times this block was inside the cabin, where it served as a seat for the bashful 
young backwoodsman while "sparking" his girl; sometimes a convenient stump 
in front of the cabin door was prepared for and made one of the best of hom- 
iny blocks. These blocks did not last long, for mills came quite early 
and superseded them, yet those mills were so far apart that in stormy 
weather, or for want of transportation, the pioneer was compelled to resort to 
his hominy-block or go without bread. In winter the mills were frozen up 
nearly all the time, and when a thaw came and the ice broke, if the mill was 
not swept away entirely by the floods, it was so thronged with pioneers, each 
with his sack of corn, that some of them were often compelled to camp out 
near the mill and wait several days for their turn. When the grist was ground, 
if they were so fortunate as to possess an ox, or a horse or mule for the pur- 
pose of transportation, they were happy. It was not unusual to go from ten 
to thirty miles to mill, through the pathless, unbroken forest, and to be be- 
nighted on the journey and chased by wolves. 

As the majority of the pioneers settled in the vicinity of a stream, 
mills soon made their appearance in every settlement. Those mills, however, 
were very primitive affairs— mere "corn -crackers" — ^but they were a big 
improvement on the hominy-block. They merely ground the corn; the pio- 
neer must do his own bolting. The meal was sifted through a wire sieve by 
hand, and the finest used for bread. A road cut through the forest to the mill 
and a wagon for hauling the grist were great advantages. The latter, espe- 
cially, was often a seven days' wonder to the children of a settlement, and the 
happy owner of one often did for years the milling of a whole neighborhood. 
About once a month this good neighbor, who was in exceptionally good cir- 
cumstances because able to own a wagon, would go around through the settle- 
ment, gather up the grists and take them to mill, often spending several days 
in the operation, and never think of charging for his time and trouble. 

Only the commonest goods were brought into the country, and they sold at 
very high prices, as the freightage of merchaiidise from the East was high. 
Most of the people were in moderate circumstances, and were content to live 
in a very cheap way. A majority had to depend mainly on the produce of 
their little clearings, which consisted to a large extent of potatoes and corn. 
Mush, corn bread and potatoes were the principal food. There was no meat 
except game, and often this had to be eaten without salt. Pork, flour, sugar 
and other groceries sold at high prices, and were looked upon as luxuries. In 
1798-99 wheat brought $1.50 per bushel; flour $4 per 100 pounds; corn $1 
per bushel; oats, 75 cents, and potatoes 65 cents. Prices were still higher in 
1813-14, corn being $2 per bushel; flour $14 per barrel; oats, $1, and salt 
from $12 to $20 per barrel. 

The writer has seen an old cash book kept at one of the frontier stores on 
the Reserve prior to 1800, wherein the accounts with the whites are carried out 
in pounds, shillings and pence, while those with the Indians, who largely 
patronized the store, wei-e kept in dollars and cents. To judge from the daily 
consumption of whisky, it was pre-eminently the " staflf of life,'' there being 
scarcely an account against a white or Indian, male or female, of which it 
does not form a large proportion. For domestic use, it cost 3 shillings per 
quart, while a gill cost 4 cents. Tobacco was sold by the yard at 4 cents per 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 249 

yard; common sugar at 33 cents, and loaf at 50 cents per pound. Chocolate 
was in more general use than tea or coffee, and sold at 3 shillings and 6 pence 
per pound, and coffee at 30 cents. Homespun linen could be purchased at 50 
cents per yard, while the belle aspiring to the extravagance of calico, could 
gratify her ambition at 83 cents per yard, with the addition of a cotton hand- 
kerchief at from 70 cents to $1, according to color and design. Shoes and 
boots brought from $1 to $3 per pair, but moccasins were in common use with 
both white men and Indians at 3 shillings and 9 pence, though from 9 pence 
to two shillings higher when ornamented with the colored quills of the porcu- 
pine. The price of a rifle was $25, a horse $125, and a yoke of oien $80. 
Indians usually paid their bills with peltry and many of the whites did like- 
wise. A bear skin was worth from $2 to $5; otter, from $3 to $4; beaver, from 
$2 to $3; deer from 75 to 90 cents; marten 1 shilling and 10 pence; muskrat, 
1 shilling, while fisher, wild cat, panther, wolf, fox, raccoon, mink and other 
skins were also readily purchased. 

Long journeys upon foot were often made by the pioneers to obtain the 
necessities of life or some article, then a luxury, for the sick. Hardships were 
cheerfully borne, privations stoutly endured; the best was made of what they 
had by the pioneers and their families, and they toiled patiently on, industri- 
ous and frugal, simple in their tastes and pleasures, happy in an independ- 
ence, however hardly gained, and looking forward hopefully to a future of 
plenty which should reward them for the toils of their earliest years, and a 
rest from the struggle amidst the benefits gained by it. Without an iron will 
and indomitable resolution they could never have accomplished what they did. 
Their heroism deserves the highest tribute of praise that can be awarded. A 
writer in one of the local papers says: 

" Eighty years ago not a pound of coal or a cubic foot of illuminating gas 
had been burned in the country. All the cooking and warming in town as 
well as in the country were done by the aid of a fire kindled on the brick 
hearth or in the brick ovens. Pine knots or tallow candles furnished the light 
for the long winter nights, and sanded floors supplied the place of rugs and 
carpets. The water used for household purposes was drawn from deep wells 
by the creaking sweep. No form of pump was used in this country, so far as 
we can learn, until after the commencement of the present century. There 
were no friction matches in those early days, by the aid of which a fire could 
be easily kindled, and if the fire went out upon the hearth over night, and the 
tinder was damp, so that the spark would not catch, the alternative remained 
of wading through the snow a mile or so to borrow a brand from a neighbor. 
Only one room in any house was warm, unless some member of the family was 
ill, in all the rest the temperature was at zero during many nights in winter. 
The men and women undressed and went to their beds in a temperature colder 
than our barns and woodsheds, and they never complained." 

Churches and schoolhouses were sparsely scattered, and of the most primi- 
tive character. One pastor served a number of congi-egations, and salaries 
were so low that the preachers had to take part in working their farms to pro- 
cure support for their families. The people went to religious service on foot 
or horseback, and the children often walked two or three miles through the 
woods to school. There were no fires in the churches for a number of years. 
When they were finally introduced they were at first built in holes cut in the 
floors, and the smoke found its way out through openings in the roofs. The 
seats were of unsmoothed slabs, the ends and centers of which were laid upon 
blocks, and the pulpits were little better. Worship was held once or twice a 
month, consisting usually of two services, one in the forenoon and one imme- 



250 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

diately after noon, the people remaining during the interval and spending the 
time in social intercourse. It is much to be feared that if religious worship 
were attended with the same discomforts now as it was eighty to ninety years 
ago, the excuses for keeping away from the house of God would be many times 
multiplied. Taken altogether, while they had to endure many privations and 
hardships, it is doubtful whether the pioneers of any part of America were 
more fortunate in their selection than those of Portage County. Every one 
of the settlers agrees in saying that they had no trouble in accommodating 
themselves to the situation, and were, as a rule, both men and women, healthy, 
contented and happy. 

During the war of 1812-15, many of the husbands and fathers volunteered 
their services to the United States, and others were drafted. Women and 
children were then left alone in many an isolated log-cabin in northeastern 
Ohio, and there were several intervals of unrest and anxiety. It was feared 
by many that the Indians might take advantage of the absence from these homes 
of their natural defenders, and pillage and destroy them. The dread of rob- 
bery and murder filled many a mother's heart, but happily the worst fears of 
the kind proved to be groundless, and this part of the country was spared any 
scenes of actual violence. 

After the war there was a greater feeling of security than ever before; a 
new motive was given to immigration. The country rapidly filled up with set- 
tlers, and the era of peace and prosperity was fairly begun. Progress was 
slowly, surely made: the log-houses became more numerous in the clearings; 
the forest shrank away before the woodman's ax; frame houses began to appear. 
The pioneers, assured of safety, laid better plans for the future, resorted to 
new industries, enlarged their possessions, and improved the means of culti- 
vation. Stock was brought in from the South and East. Every settler had 
his horses, oxen, cattle, sheep and hogs. More qommodious structures took 
the places of the old ones; the large double log-cabin of hewed logs and the 
still handsomer frame dwelling took the place of the smaller hut; log and 
frame barns were built for the protection of stock and the housing of the crops. 
Then society began to form itself; the schoolhouse and the church appeared, 
and the advancement was noticeable in a score of ways. Still there remained 
a vast work to perform, for as yet only a beginning had been made in the West- 
ern woods. The brunt of the struggle, however, was past, and the way made 
in the wilderness for the army that was to come. 

For the next ten years succeeding the war of 1812 wheat was from 25 to 
37^ cents per bushel, and other products in proportion. Merchandise was still 
very high. A day's labor would barely pui'chase a yard of cotton, while 
thirty -two bushels of corn are known to have been exchanged, by one of the 
pioneers of Portage County, for four yards of fulled cloth. About 1813 John 
T. Baldwin and David Waller, two well remembered pioneers of Palmyra 
Township, brought the first load of salt from Cleveland to Portage County. 
It took five days to make the trip, and the salt wais worth when delivered $20 
per barrel. In 1816 corn was $2 per bushel, and flour SL4 per barrel, while 
hired hands received but 25 cents a day. In 1821 wheat sold in Ravenna for 
25 cents per bushel, and money was so scarce that the average pioneer was 
very often unable to raise the funds to pay the postage on an occasional letter, 
which then cost 25 cents. Wheat and flour were hauled to Cleveland with ox 
teams, and exchanged for goods, and, as the roads were usually in a terrible 
condition, it often took a whole week to make the round trip. Along about 
this period Judge Amzi Atwater, who resided in the northern part of the 
county, with the laudable intention of encouraging the struggling settlers, 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 251 

advertised that he would allow 50 cents per bushel for wheat to those who 
had purchased or would purchase land of him. Taking advantage of this 
liberal ofifer, they would buy up wheat at from 25 to 40 cents and turn it over 
to Judge Atwater at 50 cents per bushel. This was soon regarded by the 
Judge as "sharp practice," and he withdrew his offer. The usual hotel 
charges throughout the county for a good pioneer dinner was 12i^ cents, a 
similar amount being charged for four quarts of oats and hay for the guest's 
horse. Very little change occurred in prices of produce or goods until 1825, 
when the commencement of work on the Ohio Canal gave an impetus to every 
branch of trade. 

The first settlers were necessarily exposed to many dangers and privations, 
yet as a rule they had no fears of starvation, for the forest was alive with 
game, the streams abounded in fish and the virgin soil yielded bountifully. 
Upon selecting a location, the pioneer usually began at once to open a clearing 
in the primitive forest and prepare a piece of ground for tillage. Thus the 
foundation of the present agricultural prosperity was laid by the first settlers 
of the county. In the fall of 1798 Abram S. Honey planted a small patch of 
wheat in Mantua Township, which was harvested the following summer by his 
brother-in-law, Kufus Edwards, who owned the land. This was the first crop 
raised by white men in what is now Portage County, In June, 1799, Elias 
Harmon planted some potatoes and peas in the Honey clearing. The same fall 
Lewis Ely put in a crop of wheat in Deertield Township, as also did Lewis 
and Horatio Day, amounting in all to some eight or ten acres. The next 
spring Lewis Ely, Alva Day, John Campbell and Joel Thrall each planted a 
small jjatch of corn in Deerfield. David Daniels cleared up a piece of ground 
on Lot 21, Palmyra Township, in the summer of 1799, and that fall sowed it 
in wheat, which he harvested the following summer. After threshing the 
little crop with his flail, he cleaned up about a bushel of the grain and carried 
it on his back to a mill located at Poland, Ohio, about thirty miles distant, 
had it ground and retui-ned with the flour to his cabin, where for the first time 
since settling in the wilderness, he enjoyed the luxury of wheat bread. In 
the spring of 1800 Daniels put in a patch of corn; Ethelbert Baker and 
William Bacon also planted little fields of corn in Palmyra the same spring. 
In 1799 Ebenezer Sheldon sent out Eben Blair fi'om Connecticut to make a 
settlement on his land in Aurora Township. Blair came ria Pittsburgh, where 
he bought a peck of grass seed. This he carried on his back from Pittsburgh 
to Sheldon's land, where he was soon after joined by his employer and Elias 
Harmon. An opening was soon made in the woods and sown with wheat 
brought out by Sheldon, the gi'ass seed being sown in the same field. Benja- 
min Tappan put in a few acres of corn and vegetables in 1800, on his land in 
the southeast corner of Ravenna Township, and the same fall planted the 
ground in wheat. William Chard and Conrad Boosinger, both of whom settled 
in Tappan's neighborhood, also planted small fields of the latter cereal in the 
fall of 1800. Asa Hall made the first clearing in Atwater Township early in 
1800, and put in some corn, which was succeeded the next fall by wheat. In 
1801 or 1802 David Baldwin raised a corn and wheat crop in Atwater Town- 
ship. 

The first corn in Rootstown Township was planted in the spring of 1801, 
near its northeast corner, by Ephraira and David Root, In Nelson Township 
a crop was put in the same year by Delaun and Asahel Mills. In 1802 Royal 
Pease sowed a few acres of wheat in Suffield Township. In April, 1803, Ben- 
jamin Baldwin settled in the latter township. He brought from Connecticut a 
small bag of apple seeds, which he planted upon his arrival, and from the seed- 



252 HISTORY OF rORTAGE COUNTY. 

lings thus obtained has come the much-prized " Baldwin Apple." The first 
crop of wheat planted in Randolph Township was in the fall of 1802, by Bela 
Hubbard, on the northwest corner of Lot 57, the first land cleared in the 
township. He had to go to David Baldwin's in Atwater Township eight miles 
away to borrow a plow, which he carried on his shoulders to his little clear- 
ing, and returned it in the same manner. He went to Christman's Mill, on 
Little Beaver Creek, in Pennsylvania, for seed, the round trip taking about a 
week, but so rich was the soil that he raised 100 bushels of clean wheat from 
four acres of ground. He and Joseph Harris raised in partnership, in 1805, 
1,500 bushels of corn. In 1803 Elijah Mason cleared twenty-two acres of land 
on Lot 23, Hiram Township, which he planted in wheat the same year. John 
Campbell raised the first corn in Charlestown Township in 1805, having 
removed there from Deerfield, where he first settled. In 1806 John and 
George Haymaker sowed a small patch of corn on the bank of the Cuyahoga, 
in Franklin Township, and the next year built a grist-mill on that stream. 
Joel Baker put in a crop of corn and wheat on Lot 46, Shalersville Township, 
in 1806. Eber Abbott planted the first corn and wheat in Edinburg Town- 
ship in 1811. In the spring of that year Elijah and Oliver Alford aud Eben- 
ezer O. and Nathan Messenger cleared small pieces of ground in Windham 
Township, which they planted in corn. Wareham Loomis also put in a small 
patch, and the same fall several acres of wheat were sown by the same parties 
and other settlers who arrived during the summer. Benjamin Higley, one of 
those who came to Windham that year, planted four acres of wheat on Lot 36, 
and from three bushels sown he threshed out the following summer about 100 
bushels, which fully demonstrates the original fertility of the soil of this 
county. 

The agricultural implements in use by the early settlers were very simple 
and rude. The plow was made entirely of wood, except the share, clevis and 
draft-rods, which were of iron, and had to be for a number of years transported 
from Pittsburgh, as there were no iron works in the county where the plow- 
shares could be foi'ged. The wooden plow was a very awkward implement, 
very difficult to hold and h'ard for the team to draw. It was, however, very 
generally used until the fall of 1824, when the cast-iron plow, patented by 
Jethro Wood, was first brought into the county, though it did not gain popular 
favor very rapidly. The farmer looked at it and was sure it would break the 
first time it struck a stone or a root, and then how should he replace it? The 
wooden mould-board would not break, and when it wore out he could take his 
ax and hew another out of a piece of a tree. In no one agricultural implement 
has there been more marked improvement than in the plow — now made of beau- 
tifully polished cast-steel except the beam and handles, while in Canada and 
some portions of the United States these, too, are manufactured of iron. The 
cast-steel plow of the present manufacture, in its several sizes, styles and 
adaptations to the various soils and forms of land, including the sulky or rid- 
ing plow of the Western prairies, is among agricultural implements the most 
perfect m use. 

The pioneer harrow was simply the fork of a tree, with the branches on one 
side cut close and on the other left about a foot long to serve the purpose of 
teeth. In some instances a number of holes were bored through the beams 
and dry wooden pins driven into them. It was not until about 1825 that iron 
or steel harrow teeth were introduced into Portage County. 

The axes, hoes, shovels and picks were rude and clumsy, and of inferior 
utility. The sickle and scythe were at first used to harvest the grain and hay, 
but the former gave way early to the cradle, with which better results could be 



-f^---^ •■ SoBii 




<^^y^/.<' 




HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 255 

attained with less labor. The scythe and cradle have been replaced by the 
mower and reaper to a great extent, though both are still used considerably in 
this county. 

The ordinary wooden flail was used to thresh grain until about 1830, when 
the horse-power thresher was largely substituted. The method of cleaning 
the chaflf from the grain by the early settlers, was by a blanket handled by two 
persons. The grain and the chaff were placed on the blanket, which was then 
tossed up and down, the wind separating a certain amount of the chaff from 
the grain during the operation. Fanning-mills were introduced about 1820, 
but the first of these were very rude and little better than the primitive 
blanket. Improvements have been made from time to time until an almost 
perfect separator is now connected with every threshing machine, and the work 
of ten men for a whole season is done more completely by two or three men, 
as many horses, and a patent separator, in one day. In fact, it is diflScult to 
fix limitations upon improvements in agricultural machinery within the last 
fifty years. It is, however, safe to say that they have enabled the farmer to 
accomplish more than triple the amount of work with the same force in the 
same time, and do his work better than before. It has been stated on compe- 
tent aiithority that the saving effected by new and improved implements within 
the last twenty years has been not less than one-half on all kinds of farm labor. 

The greatest triumphs of mechanical skill in its application to agriculture 
are witnessed in the plow, planter, reaper and separator, as well as in many 
other implements adapted to the tillage, harvesting and subsequent handling 
of the immense crops of the country. The rude and cumbrous implements of 
the pioneers have been superseded by improved and apparently perfect machin- 
ery of all classes, so that the calling of the farmer is no longer synonymous 
with laborious toil, but is in many ways pleasant recreation. 

The farmers of Portage County are not behind their neighbors in the 
employment of improved methods and in the use of the best machinery. It is 
true that in many cases they were slow to change, but much allowance should 
be made for surrounding circumstances. The pioneers had to contend against 
innumerable obstacles — with the wildness of nature, the jealous hostility of 
the Indians, the immense growth of timber, the depredations of wild beasts 
and the annoyance of the swarming insect life, and the great difficulty and 
expense of procuring seeds and farming implements. These various difficul- 
ties were quite sufficient to explain the slow progress made in the first years 
of settlement. Improvements were not encouraged, while the pioneers gener- 
ally rejected "book- farming" as unimportant and useless, and knew little of the 
chemistry of agriculture. The farmer who ventured to make experiments, to 
stake out new paths of practice, or to adopt new modes of culture, subjected 
himself to the ridicule of the whole neighborhood. For many years the same 
methods of farming were observed; the son planted as many acres of corn or 
wheat as his father did, and in the same phases of the moon. All their prac- 
tices were merely traditional; but within the last thirty years most remarkable 
changes have occurred in all the conditions of agriculture in this country. 

It is not, however, in grain-growing that Portage County has made its 
most material progress. The natural adaptation of the soil to grass, and the 
abundant supply of pure water, early attracted the attention of many progress- 
ive farmers to the raising of daii-y stock, and the manufacture of butter and 
cheese, which industries have increased until they are among the leading agri- 
cultural pursuits, exceeding most other branches of farming in their impor- 
tance and magnitude. Milch cows were brought into the county by many of 
the very earliest settlers, and butter and cheese began to be manufactured for 



256 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

market in a small way during the first quarter of the present century. The 
business grew rapidly, and by 1850 nearly 2,000,000 pounds of cheese were 
annually produced in Portage County, and butter and cheese became the great 
staple products of the northern half of the county. Their regular manufacture 
has since extended into several of ^the southern townships, though the latter 
are more largely devoted to grain-growing. From 18G0 to 1864, inclusive, 
Portage County ranked among the counties of the State respectively third and 
fourth in its production of cheese and butter, annually averaging for those five 
years 2,933,471 pounds of cheese, and 872,454 pounds of butter. In 1866 it 
stood second in both products, having 3,115,728 pounds of cheese, and 833,988 
pounds of butter. In 1870 it was third and fifth respectively, with 3,822,829 
pounds of cheese, atid 916,376 pounds of butter. In 1871 it had 3,308,334 
pounds of cheese, and 907,693 pounds of butter, being fourth and seventh 
respectively in those products. In 1872 it produced 3,619,983 pounds of 
cheese, and 906,995 pounds of butter, ranking fifth in both. In 1873 there 
were turned out 948,964 pounds of butter, which was more than any other 
county in the State, and 3,712,233 pounds of cheese, or the fifth in that article. 
In 1874 this county's butter product heads the list with 1,062,043 pounds; and 
it was the fourth cheese producing county, with 3,483,965 pounds. It ranked 
respectively third and sixth, in butter and cheese, in 1875, turning out 955,- 
817 pounds of the former, and 3,404,286 pounds of the latter product. In 1877 
Portage manufactured 1,043,542 pounds of butter and 3,767,783 pounds of cheese, 
ranking fifth in each. In 1878 its butter product stood fourth, and its cheese 
product second in the list of counties, reporting 981,425 pounds of^the former, 
and 4,170,339 pounds of the latter. Its butter product dropped in 1879 to 
the ninth place, being 911,910 pounds, while its cheese production also 
declined to less than one-half of the amount turned out the previous year, or 
2,061,111 pounds, making Portage fifth in the list of cheese counties for that 
year. Little change occurred for the succeeding two years, the county stand- 
ing, in 1881, seventh in its butter product, with 962,970 pounds, and third in 
its cheese product, having 2,798,722 pounds. In 1883 this county again took 
the first place in its butter product, standing at the head of all the other coun- 
ties, with 1,299,077 pounds, while its 2,645,115 pounds of cheese gave it fifth 
place in the list of cheese producing counties. The statistics for 1884 
have not yet (March 1885) been collected, but cheese dealers have informed 
the writer that, on account of the long dry season, there will be a considerable 
falling off in last year's product. The county now contains about thirty cheese 
factories, located principally in the three northern ranges of townships, though 
there are several in the southern section of the county. 

Horses, cattle, sheep and hogs were brought into the county by the first 
settlers, though they were usually of an ordinary breed, and very little was 
done toward the improvement of farm stock for fifty years after the first set- 
tlement was made. Mrs. Josiah Ward is credited with owning the first sheep 
in Kandolph Township, which were brought in from the East in 1805. Her 
husband having no money, was unable to purchase them, when she "took out 
her stocking " and paid cash down for eight or ten of the drove standing in 
front of their little cabin. She had saved up this money ere leaving her Con- 
necticut home, to be used for that very purpose. Timothy Culver, also of 
Raudolph Township, bought sixteen sheep about the same time, the seller to 
receive as many more at a certain stated date; but the animals were kept near 
the creek, and, in consequence of eating a poisonous plant, all but one died 
the first winter. In 1806 John H. Whittlesey and Jeremiah Jones located in 
Atwater Township, and soon afterward went to Georgetown, Penn., and pur- 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 257 

chased twelve sheep, which they brought to their homes in this county. On 
getting the sheep here they discovered that they had no place to keep them 
safe from the wolves during the coming night, but Mr. Whittlesey soon got 
over the diflSculty by giving the animals a portion of his own kitchen. About 
1807 John Campbell went to Pennsylvania and brought in some stock from 
that State, which he distributed among the few settlers who were then finan- 
cially able to purchase. In 1813 Erastus Carter bought six sheep of John 
Campbell. They were watched through the daytime by his son Howard Car- 
ter, who is yet living, and shut up at night in a log-stable. One night the 
sheep were left out, and the wolves killed every one of them. The family 
picked up the wool scattered around the remains, carded and spun it, and had 
it woven into cloth, from which young Howard was made his first pair of woolen 
pants since coming to Ohio several years before, buckskin being then the only 
material generally in use for such garments. 

The swine of the early settlers, compared with those they now possess, pre- 
sent a very wide contrast, for whatever the breed may have been called, run- 
ning wild, as was customary, the special breed was soon lost in the mixed swine 
of the countiy. They were long and slim, long-snouted and long-legged, with 
an arched back, and bristles erect from the back of the head to the tail, slab- 
sided, active and healthy; the "sapling-splitter" or "razor back," as he was 
called, was ever in the search of food, and quick to take alarm. He was capa 
ble of making a heavy hog, but required two or more yeai's to mature, and 
until a short time before butchering or marketing was suffered to run at large, 
subsisting mainly as a forager, and in the fall fattening on the "mast" of the 
forest. Yet this was the hog for a new country, whose nearest and best 
markets were Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, to which points they were driven 
on foot. Almost every farmer raised a few hogs for market, which were gath- 
ered up by drovers and dealers during the fall and winter seasons. In no 
stock of the farm have greater changes been effected than in the hog. From 
the long-legged, long-snouted, slab-sided, I'oach-backed, tall, long, active, 
wild, fierce and muscular, it has been bred to be almost as square as a store- 
box and quiet as a sheep, taking on 250 pounds of flesh in ten months. They 
are now ranked into distinctive breeds, the Berkshire and Chester White being 
more extensively bred in Portage County than any other kind. 

The following statistics, compiled from the Secretary of State's reports, will 
furnish a good idea of the growth of the stock interests in Portage County for 
the past forty- five years: 

In 1840 the county contained 4,205 horses and mules, 25,308 cattle, 37,240 
sheep and 11,074 hogs. In 1852, 4,795 horses, 27,526 cattle, 70,852 sheep, 
5,537 hogs and 45 mules. From 1858 to 1864 inclusive, the annual average 
was 8,063 horses, 33,927 cattle, 86,692 sheep, 7,875 hogs and 75 mules. In 
1867 there were 7,439 horses, 27,823 cattle, 125,545 sheep, 7,769 hogs and 87 
mules. In 1870, 6,373 horses, 26,696 cattle, 45,386 sheep, 6,421 hogs and 56 
mules. In 1873, 7,887 horses, 34,706 cattle, 44,365 sheep, 5,565 hogs and 73 
mules. In 1875, 8,359 horses, 26.466 cattle, 34,609 sheep, 4,648 hogs and 75 
mules. In 1878, 7,886 horses, 29,968 cattle, 41,394 sheep, 9,162 hogs and 75 
mules. In 1880, 7,557 horses, 28,702 cattle, 51,622 sheep, 6,895 hogs and 74 
mules. In 1884 there were reported 9,327 horses, 30,049 cattle, 13,746 sheep, 
29,185 hogs and 267 mules. The greatest noticeable changes will be found in 
the sheep reports. From 1840 to 1867 there was a rapid increase of this 
stock, numbering in the latter year 125,545 head, but from that date up to 
1884 there was a var34ng decrease in numbers, until the difi'erence between 
1867 and 1884 was over 100,000. While the number of horses and cattle 



258 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

varied a few thousand back and forth, there were more than three times as 
many hogs reported in 1883 and 1884 as in any other year since 1852. This 
would indicate that hogs are rapidly taking the place of sheep on the farms of 
Portage County, the raising of the latter having been almost abandoned because 
of the rapid decline in the price of wool, caused by the reduction of the tariff 
on that staple. 

The leading staple crops of Portage County are wheat, corn, oats and hay. 
From 1850 to 1864 inclusive, the annual average wheat and corn product was, 
respectively, 149,084 and 358,094 Tjushels. The annual average product of 
oats from 1858 to 1864 inclusive, was 240,233 bushels, while the annual hay 
product for the same period was 44,711 tons. In 1866 there were raised in 
this county 81,922 bushels of wheat, 456,667 bushels of corn, 309,381 bushels 
of oats, and 49,913 tons of hay and clover. In 1870, 108,324 bushels of 
wheat, 540,862 bushels of corn, 386,257 bushels of oats and 44,612 tons of 
hay and clover. In 1875, 176,866 bushels of wheat, 736,112 bushels of corn, 
502,288 bushels of oats and 33,914 tons of hay and clover. In 1880, 460,894 
bushels of wheat, 450,822 bushels of corn, 429,735 bushels of oats and 40,138 
tons of hay and clover. In 1883 (the last report published), there were raised 
318,261 bushels of wheat, 159,751 bushels of corn (shelled), 540,464 bushels of 
oats and 58,694 tons of hay and clover. The total annual average wheat- pro- 
duct of this county from 1878 to 1882 inclusive was 352,251 bushels, and of 
corn for the same period, 568,503 bushels. 

The official valuation of property in Portage County, by decades, as 
returned for taxation, will illustrate its steady increase in wealth and general 
prosperity. In 1850 the total valuation was $5,926,727; 1860, $10,854,965; 
1870, $14,228,943; 1880, $16,100,010. 

Portage County Agricultural Societies. — There has been no agency that 
has accomplished so much good for the farming intei'ests of this county as the 
several agricultural societies of the past and present. Their influence began 
sixty years ago, when, on the 9th of May, 1825, the " Portage County Agricult- 
ural Society " was organized at the Court House in Ravenna, by the election 
of the following officers: Joshua Woodward, President; Elias Harmon, First 
Yice-President; Owen Brown, Second Vice-President; Frederick Wadsworth, 
Corresponding Secretary; Samuel D. Harris, Recording Secretary; William 
Coolman, Jr., Treasurer; Jonathan Sloane, Auditor. The society held its 
first " agricultural fair and cattle show " at Ravenna, October 18, 1825. 
Among the premiums we find one of $3, awarded to Seth Harmon for the best 
crop of corn, he having raised one hundred bushels and one peck from one 
acre of land. Fairs were held annually by the society at Ravenna until 1830, 
when, although officers were elected, no fair was held, and the society went 
out of existence. 

On the 12th of March, 1839, the Ohio Assembly passed " an act to author- 
ize and encourage the establishment of agricultural societies in the several 
counties in this State, and to regulate the same;" and June 20, 1839, in 
pursuance of notice given by the County Auditor, a meeting was held at the 
Court House in Ravenna, for the purpose of organizing an agricultural society 
in Portage County. William Wetmore was Chairman, and George Y. Wallace, 
Secretary. It was resolved by the meeting to call the new institution the 
" Portage County Agricultural Societj"-," and the following officers were chosen : 
William Wetmore, President; Lorin Bigelow, Vice-President; George Y. 
Wallace, Recording Secretary; Joseph Lyman, Corresponding Secretary; John 
B. Clark, William Milliken and Oliver C. Dickinson, Executive Committee. 
Their first fair was held at the Court House October 20 and 21, 1841, and was 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 259 

quite a success. Successful fairs were also held at the same place in 1842, 
1843 and 1844, but on account of a long drouth and consequent failure of 
crops, none was held in 1845. 

On the 27th of February, 1846, the Legislature passed " an act for the 
encouragement of agriculture;" and April 1 and 2, 1846, the State Board of 
Agriculture met at Columbus, Ohio, and adopted rules and regulations for the 
government of county societies legally organized in harmony with this law. 
A meeting was held at the Court House in Ravenna, for the purpose of organ- 
izing a society under those rules, and to obtain the financial assistance from 
the State, which the act promised. Greenbury Keen was called to the chair, 
and Richard J. Thompson chosen Secretary. Enoch Johnson, Friend Cook, 
Ralph Day, William Stedman and Richard J. Thompson were appointed a 
committee to prepare a constitution for the society, which was subsequently 
presented and adopted. The following officers were then elected: Richard J. 
Thompson, President; J. G. Foley, Vice-President; Archibald Servoss, Secre- 
tary; Enos P. Brainerd, Treasurer; William Stedman, Albert Austin, Charles 
Button, William Milliken and Daniel W. Jennings, Executive Committee. 
The thanks of the meeting were extended to Hon. William Wetmore, of the 
Senate, and to Hons. David Mcintosh and Thomas C. Shreve, of the House, 
for their exertions to procure the passage of the law for the promotion of 
agriculture. Gen. Mcintosh was afterward President of the society for several 
years, and in August, 1853, he and wife were presented by the society with a 
massive silver salver, as an appropriate token of its appreciation of the efforts 
both had always put forth to build up the interests of the institution. 

The first fair of the new society was held at Ravenna, September 30 and 
October 1, 1846, and though not so largely attended as expected, was never- 
theless a very creditable exhibition. For several years the society held its 
annual fairs in Ravenna, with no permanent grounds, but in 1859 it rented 
about twenty acres of land east of Ravenna, and immediately south of the 
present grounds, which were fitted up and used for twenty years. Prior to 
1870 the financial affairs of the society had reached a low ebb, and the fair of 
1869 was regarded as a failure in every sense. Many predicted that the soci- 
ety would go under, and on the strength of this feeling an agricultural soci- 
ety was organized at Garrettsville, with the expectation of taking its place. 
But in the meantime Horace Y. Beebe, and a few other enterprising citizens, 
" put their shoulders to the wheel," raised a subscription, paid off the debts 
and got the institution once more " upon its legs," where it has since remained. 
The lease of the old grounds expired in 1879, and the society obtained a 
twenty years' lease of its present grounds, owned and previously fitted up by 
the Ravenna Park Association, a coterie of horsemen who held annual races 
and thus sought to encourage the growth of fine horses. On these grounds, 
which contain twenty-two acres and a good half-mile track, the agricultural 
society has erected a fine exhibition hall, offices, and cattle and sheep sheds, 
besides having the right, under its lease, to the use of the stables, grand 
stand, and other buildings of the Park Association, with exclusive control of 
the grounds during the fair. It is generally admitted that the present pros- 
perous condition of the society is largely due to the efforts of Horace Y. 
Beebe, who has spared neither time nor labor to make the annual fairs a suc- 
cess, and whose energy and business capacity, together with the earnest sup- 
port of the Board and friends of the society, have enabled him to accomplish 
what few men would have cared to undertake. Besides the annual fair at Gar- 
rettsville, several other townships in the county hold township fairs, and while 
any effort in that direction is laudable, it is, nevertheless, a positive fact that 



260 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

those township societies detract much from the interest and usefulness of the 
county organization, and had, therefore, better be abolished. The membership 
of the society is now about 600, and its present officers are N. S. Olin, Presi- 
dent; R. S. Elkins, Vice-President; E. R. Wait, Treasurer; K. S. Wing, Sec- 
retary; C. C. Gardner, William Bergen, S N. Andrews, W. W. Stevens, Simon 
Perkins, A. N. Farr, Franklin Willard, F. R. Coit, H. O. Hine and Smith 
Sanford, Directors. 

The Portage County Horticultural Society was organized in February, 1879, 
with fourteen charter members, most of whom were men who put their hands 
to the plow without any intention of looking back. The society has experi- 
enced unexpected prosperity, and contains at this writing 250 members, who 
pay an annual fee of $1. It has never failed to hold its regular monthly 
meeting, and the attendance has always been encouraging and generally large. 
The social feature of the meetings, which are held at the residences of the 
members, is good remuneration for the expense and trouble incurred, while the 
interest stimulated in horticulture has been rapidly increasing, as is plainly 
evident throughout the county in improved yards, orchards and gardens. 
The present officers of the society are Horace Y, Beebe, President; R. S. 
Elkins, Vice-President; Andrew W^illson, Secretary; C. L. Bartlett, Treasurer; 
C. C. Gardner, A. J. Jennings and John Meharg, Executive Committee. The 
same President and Seci'etary have held those positions since the organization 
of the society. The officers and members of the Agricultural Society recog- 
nize the aid of the Horticultural Society in reviving the county fairs, and 
making them truly successful. In many ways the society is exerting a whole- 
some influence. The membei's feel that what has been done is but a prophecy 
of what may be accomplished, and are generally anxious to make the Bociety 
as helpful to the purpose of its organization as is possible. 



CHAPTER VI. 

First Military Organization on the Western Reserve— War of 1812 and 
First Call for Volunteers— John Harmon's Recollections of the War 
— Second Regiment Ohio Militia— Capt. John Campbell's Company of 
Volunteers— Camp on Barrel Run— March to Cleveland, and Embark- 
ation for Lower Sandusky— Description OF the Trip and Arrival — 
Incidents at the Fort, and Sickness Among the Soldiers —Departure 
FOR THE River Raisin— Hull's Surrender— Start for Malden, and 
Arrival at that Point— Paroled Prisoners— Return Home of the 
Sick and Paroled Men— Deaths in the Command— Alarm Caused by the 
Surrender— Regimental Record of the Second Regiment— Response to 
A Call for Troops in 1813— Mr. Harmon's Concluding Remarks— The 
Inhabitants of Portage County Fear an Indian Invasion— Distressing 
Incident of the War— Re-organization of the Militia— Muster Days 
AND Sham Fights. 

THE first military organization on the Western Reserve was effected under 
the general militia law of Ohio, passed at the Legislative session of 
1803-04. The State was divided into four divisions, the Fourth Division 
embracing the whole eastern portion thereof, from Lake Erie to the Ohio 
Rivei'. Elijah Wadsworth was elected Major-General of that division, and 
issued his first order April 6, 1804. His division was divided into two 
brigades and five regiments. The First Brigade, Ohio militia, comprised the 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 261 

male inhabitants of naiiitary age inside the limits of Trumbull County, which 
then embraced the territory now in Portage, as well as all the country west of this 
county to the western limits of the Reserve. The brigade was divided into the 
First and Second Regiments, the north line of Township 5 being the dividing line 
between those forming the respective commands. The Second Regiment was 
divided into two battalions, and the Second Battalion into four companies. 

The First Company included the present townships of Berlin and Milton, 
Mahoning County, and Deerfield, Palmyra, Paris, Charlestown, Edinburg 
and Atwater Townships, Portage County, and was called the " Deerfield Com- 
pany." The Second Company included the present townships of Randolph, 
Rootstown, Ravenna, Franklin, Brimtield and Suffield, and was called th© 
" Rootstown Company. " The Third Company included the present town- 
ships of Windham, Nelson, Garrettsville, Hiram, Freedom, Shalersville, Man- 
tua, Aurora and Streetsboro, and the Fourth Company included all of the 
remaining territory of the Reserve west of the present western boundary of 
Portage County. On the 7th of May, 1804, elections for ofi&cers were held in 
the four companies, resulting as follows: First Company — Henry Rogers, 
Captain; John Diver, Lieutenant; John Campbell, Ensign. Second Company 
— Thomas Wright, Captain; William Chard, Lieutenant; David Morse, 
Ensign. Third Company — Ezra Wyatt, Captain; Gersham Judson, Lieuten- 
ant; Thomas Kennedy, Ensign. Fourth Company — John Oviatt, Captain;. 
Aaron Norton, Lieutenant; James Walker, Ensign. On the 24th of Septem- 
ber following, Henry Rogers, Captain of the First Company, was elected 
Major of the battalion. The names of most of the officers of those four com- 
panies will be recognized as those of leading pioneers of Portage County, but 
as elections were held annually their places were subsequently tilled by others 
who are equally well remembered as prominent early settlers of this section of 
the State. 

With the rapid growth of population and the organization of new counties, 
among which was Portage, in 1808, some changes occurred in the boundaries 
of the territory from which the Second Regiment was originally raised, while 
the number of brigades in the Fourth Division was increased to four, and 
other regiments formed from the additional brigades. A few years passed by 
and the sound wisdom of these militia organizations became very apparent. 
The war of 1812 was brought on by the arrogant claims of the English Gov- 
ernment, and the citizen soldiers of Portage County were among the first to 
respond to their country's call. In response to a call from Gov. Meigs for sol- 
diers to defend the frontier, Capt. John Campbell's company of riflemen was 
organized May 23, 1812, of volunteers from the Second Regiment, Ohio Mili- 
tia. Soon after the declaration of war, June 18, 1812, this company received 
orders to meet at the house of Capt. Campbell, July 1, and on that day 
pitched their tents of homespun linen sheets on the bank of Barrel Run, near 
the home of Capt. Campbell. The command had no uniforms, but each man 
was "armed to the teeth" with a rifle, a tomahawk, and a large knife. It soon 
afterward started for the frontier, and was encamped on the River Raisin at 
the time of Hull's surrender, and therefore included in that disgraceful and 
cowardly capitulation. 

Fifteen years ago the late John Harmon, Esq., of Ravenna, who was a 
member of this company, compiled an article entitled "Recollections of the 
War of 1812, " which was published in the Portage County Democrat, March 
2, 3870. The writer deems this historic sketch of sufficient importance to be 
worthy of preservation in the pages of this work. Mr. Harmon rendered 
the present and future generations a great service by rescuing from obliviou 



262 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

and placing on record important events connected with a very interesting 
period of our national history; but more especially are these reminiscences 
invaluable to the people of Portage County. None of the pioneers of this 
county who participated in the war of 1812 are left to tell the story of their 
trials and hardships, and without these reminiscences, so fortunately prepared 
by Mr. Harmon, it would be utterly impossible at this late day to obtain any 
reliable data treating of military events in this portion of Ohio during that 
momentous period. 

Recollections of the War of 1812. * — In compliance with the expressed wishes 
of some valued friends, and more particularly at the recent solicitation of the 
officers of the Western Reserve Historical Society, I will endeavor to write for 
publication some account of the campaign of Capt. Campbell's Volunteer 
Company of 1812, of which I was an humble member. To aid me in this task, 
I have a brief diary journal, kept at that time, and a brief record of our 
organization in the book of Regimental Records of the regiment from which 
our company was raised. But for much that I have to record, I have to rely 
on memory, and I fear my task, performed at my time of life, and after a lapse 
of more than iifty-seven years from the time the events occurred of which I 
write, will not be acceptably recorded. But, as few of the actors of those days 
now remain to tell their tales, and fewer still are disposed to transmit our his- 
tory to the present young, and the coming generations, I have been induced to 
commence the task, and present the record first to the people of the locality 
where our company was best known, and through the medium of the local press 
of Portage County. 

In 1812 the able bodied white male inhabitants between the ages of eight- 
een and forty-five, residing on the three eastern tiers of townships of the 
present county of Portage, and subject to military duty, constituted the Sec- 
ond Regiment, Fourth Brigade, Fourth Division, Ohio Militia, and were com- 
manded by Col. John Campbell, then residing on the corners of the four town- 
ships of Ravenna, Rootstown, Charlestown and Edinburg, a place since called 
Campbellsport. This regiment consisted of two battalions, of four militia 
companies each. Those residing in Mantua constituted the First Company, 
First Battalion. Nelson, Hiram and Windham constituted the Second Com- 
pany, First Battalion. Ravenna and Charlestown constituted the Third Com- 
pany, First Battalion. Shalersville constituted the Fourth Company, First 
Battalion. Deerfield and Atwater constituted the First Company, Second 
Battalion. Rootstown constituted the Second Company, Second Battalion. 
Palmyra and Paris constituted the Third Company, Second Battalion. Ran- 
dolph constituted the Fourth Company, Second Battalion. 

It appears that about the middle of May, 1812, Col. Campbell received 
orders from Got. Meigs to raise soldiers from his regiment for the defense of 
the frontiers; but the number to be raised does not appear on record, but, on 
the Military Record Book, page 26, we find the following: 

" At a special meeting of the officers of the Second Regiment, Fourth Bri- 
gade, Fourth Division, of Ohio Militia, holden at Ravenna, the 19th day of 
May, 1812, for raising soldiers. 

"Officers present. — Col. John Campbell, Maj. Stephen Mason, Maj. Thad- 
deus Andrews. 

" Captains. — Alva Day, Joshua Woodward, Asa K. Burroughs. 

"Lieut. Isaac Merriman, for Capt. Timothy Culver's Company. 

"Lieut. John Redden, for Capt, Delaun Mills' Company. 

* By the late' John Harmon, Esq. 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 265 

"Commandants of Companies. — Lieut, Oliver Snow, Lieut. John Caris, 
Lieut. Charles Gilbert. 

"Ordered — That the regiment meet at Ravenna on the 23d inst., at 10 
o'clock A. M. 

"Orders given to Majors Mason and Andrews." 

Then follow on the record several pages of "class rolls" of the regi- 
ment, with the name and class, as it purports, of every man of the regiment 
subject to military duty, comprising all able-bodied white males between the 
ages of eighteen and forty-five, residing in the bounds of the regiment, which 
we omit at present. At this time, and previous, Robert Campbell was Clerk 
of the regiment, but much of the records appear to be in the hand- writing of 
the late Col. Stephen Mason. On page 30 is recorded the appointment of 
Charles Curtis, of Charlestown, as Quartermaster of the regiment, and Fred- 
erick Wadsworth, Clerk of the regiment, dated 26th of May, 1812. I find no 
record of the mustering of the regiment "to raise soldiers," and here have to 
tax my memory. 

According to orders the regiment met at Ravenna, May 23, and on being 
paraded in line, the Colonel informed us that he had orders from the Governor 
to raise soldiers from this regiment for the defense of the frontiers, and that 
unless a company of fifty would volunteer, a draft must be made; that if 
fifty men would volunteer, they could by law elect their own officers; but 
if a draft had to be made, they would be commanded probably by strangers. 
He advised us to volunteer, and urged in a short speech, and Charles Shaler, 
then a young lawyer, since Judge Shaler, of Pittsburgh, a son of Nathaniel 
Shaler, of Middletown, Conn., the proprietor of Shalersville, being present, 
entertained us with a patriotic speech. 

It was then announced, as the musicians stepped out before the regiment, 
that all who would volunteer should step forward and follow the music. 
Immediately volunteers began to show themselves, stepping to the front, to 
the music of the drum and fife. Among the first were Col Campbell, Capt. 
Alva Day, Lieut. John Caris and Samuel Redfield. The last-mentioned was, I 
believe, the first to follow the music. The little squad thus formed continued 
passing to and fro before the regiment, its members constantly accumulating, 
until it was announced that the fifty were on hand, and one more. During 
the suspense before the required number were on hand, some one announced 
that he saw a star in our horizon, a star of promise, may be, on which George 
Grant Redden, of Hiram, declared if he could see the star, he too 
would volunteer, and on it being shown him he immediately volunteered. 
As it was a clear day, numbers of us saw the bright star. We were 
then marched to the south side of the Court House, and our names were taken 
by one of our number, Ralph Buckland — father of Hon. Ralph P. Buckland, 
late a member of Congress from the Ninth (Fremont) District, Ohio. This 
done, we were fully engaged, and it was debated when and where we would 
elect our company officers, and determined to proceed immediately, same 
evening, at the house of William Tappan, which we accordingly did. That 
house, one of the first frame structures built in Ravenna, was burned a few 
years ago. It stood on the ground now occupied by the Phoenix Block, north- 
east of the Court House square. The same room where the votes were taken 
was afterward used as a printing office, from which, in 1834-35, The Western 
Courier was issued. 

The following "roll of volunteers" and list- of officers elected is copied 
from Regimental Records, page 30, the record found in the hand-writing of 
the late Frederick Wadsworth, Esq. I add only their respective residences: 



266 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

OFFICERS. 

John Campbell, Captain, Campbellsport. 

Alva Day, Lieutenant, Deerfield. 

John Caris, Second Lieutenant, Rootstown. 

Aaron Weston, Ensign, Kavenna. 

Lewis Day, Jr., First Sergeant, Deertield. 

John Wright, Second Sergeant, Rootstown. 

Ralph Buckland, Third Sergeant, Ravenna. 

Lewis Ely, Jr., Fourth Sergeant, Deeriield. 

Charles (Jhittenden, First Corporal, Atwater. 

John Harmon, Second Corporal, Mantua. 

Daniel Burroughs, Jr., Third Corporal, Shalersville. 

John Turner, Fourth Corporal, Rootstown. 

David Jones, Drummer, Randolph. 

James Magill, Fifer, Palmyra. 

PRIVATES. 

William Tappan, Ravenna; Samuel Redfield, Randolph; David Moore, 
Ravenna; Samuel C. Thompson, Ravenna; Benjamin Bradley, Shalersville; 
William Thornton, Randolph; John McManus, Ravenna; William Ward, 
Ravenna; Harry O. Pettibone, Mantua; Enos Harmon, Mantua; Chauncey 
Newberry, Rootstown; Robert Campbell, Ravenna; John Sabin, Randolph; 
Samuel Bartlett, Rootstown; Samuel Tuthill, Rootstown; John Shaler, Charles- 
town; Ebenezer Tibballs, Deerfield; John Smith, Mantua; Peter Tyrrel, 
Ravenna; Philip AVillyard, Rootstown; Zacheas Harmon, Mantua; Ebenezer 
Buckley, Palmyra; Abiram Amidon, Rootstown; James Ray, Jr., Mantua; 
Mark Moore, Mantua; George G. Redden, Hiram; Job Thompson, Jr., Shalers- 
ville; William Coolman, Jr., Shalersville; Henry Root, Rootstown; Samuel 
Hartle, Rootstown; Oliver Newberry, Rootstown; Joseph Fisher, Palmyra; 
Charles Carter, Ravenna; Enoch Judson, Mantua; Nathan Chapman, Roots- 
town; Joel Underwood, Palmyra; Charles Reed, Deerfield; Seth Day, Deer- 
field. 

Seth Day did not at first volunteer, but joined us at the rendezvous, and 
acted as Clerk for the oflScers until taken sick. 

Of the foregoing roll, Charles Reed, William Tappan, John Sabin, John 
Shaler, Nathan Chapman, Enoch Judson, Joseph Fisher, Oliver Newberry, 
Benjamin Bradley and Samuel Bartlett, and I think also Ebenezer Tibballs, 
failed to march to the frontier, but several furnished substitutes, to- wit: Miles 
Allen took the place of John Sabin; William Maxfield took the place of Nathan 
Chapman; Nathan Cross that of Joseph Fisher; John Jacobs that of Enoch 
Judson; John Williams that of Charles Reed; Richard Redden that of Ben- 
jamin Bradley. Thomas Rowley substituted for some one, and several shirked 
the service. Joseph DeW^olf and David Thompson, of Ravenna, I believe, 
both volunteered, but their names do not appear on the record. It was said 
that DeWolf, being the only physician in Ravenna, could not be spared from 
the place, and Thompson was detained by the condition of his family. Our 
company being thus organized, we were permitted to return to our homes, with 
the injunction oto meet again on short notice and to bring with us arms and 
equipments for a war campaign; and we were urged to provide ourselves with 
rifles if possible. 

On the 18th of June following. Congress passed a formal declaration of 
war against Great Britain, and soon thereafter we were severally summoned to 
meet on the 1st day of July, at the residence of Capt. Campbell. The com- 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 267 

pany accordingly met at the time and place appointed, established some tem- 
porary camps on the bottom lands of the Mahoning (west branch) and Barrel 
Run, near to Capt. Campbell's residence, in a pleasant natural bower. All, I 
believe, came provided with arms and equipments, and most of us brought 
rifles. We there found, besides our officers, a committee appointed to appraise 
our equipments, as by law provided, that if lost we could claim and obtain 
their value from the Government. On July 2 our arms were appraised; and 
I find on record a detailed statement of each article furnished by each person, 
set to their respective names, and signed by the appraisers, Charles Curtis, 
Erastus Carter and Stephen Mason. The details I omit — the whole amount 
of the appraisement as stated is $912.66. We had to wait some days for 
supplies to be collected by our Captain, who had been authorized, as he said, 
by the Governor for that purpose. On July 4 our Captain gave the company 
an Independence dinner, which was well relished and appreciated; and in the 
evening we enjoyed ourselves at our camps, and some patriotic soncrs were 

On July 5, which was Sunday, there was something of an assemblage of 
people, from the neighboring townships, at our rendezvous in the bower, and 
the two old Congregational pioneer preachers. Rev. John Seward (then of 
Aurora, now a venerable resident of Tallmadge), and Rev. Harvey Coe, of 
Trumbull County — I believe Hartford — and I believe since deceased, addi'essed 
us and the people in the grove very appropriately, and prayed with us. On 
the next day, July 6, in the afternoon, the company commenced their march 
for the frontier; camped the first night at Roundy's Inn, near the southwest 
corner of Ravenna, on the old State Road from Youngstown to the Portage- 
That road is said to be the first road laid out on the Western Reserve. The 
second day's march was only to Hudson, and camped near the residence of 
David Hudson, Esq. At the end of the third day's march they encamped at 
the crossing of Tinker's Creek near the west line of Bedford. The tavern 
there was, I believe, kept by Noble. On the fourth day from our rendez- 
vous, July 9, the company arrived at " the City," as the site of the present 
city of Cleveland was then called to distinguish it from "the settlement** 
part of Cleveland township, which then included what is now Newburg. 
Those of us whose homes were in Mantua had by permission passed that way 
to Cleveland, and were there in waiting when the company arrived, having 
made quicker time, not being impeded by the slow pi'ogress of the baggage 
wagons. Cleveland was then but a small place. I had been somewhat famil- 
iar there and can recollect of scarce a dozen families resident there at that 
time. There were two taverns, Carter's and Wallace's, and I believe three 
stores. Perry's, Murray's, and Hanchett's, which last mentioned, Hanchett's, 
was nearly sold out. The company encamped on the north side of Superior 
Street, among the bushes, east of Perry's store. 

The next day, July 10, afternoon, we embarked on board of two boats for 
Lower Sandusky, as the stockade was then called, where is now the flourish- 
ing little city of Fremont. One of our boats was known as Babcock's, the 
other as Smith's. The first day we made only seven miles, to the mouth of 
Rocky River. From our encampment on the beach, east side of the mouth of 
Rocky River, we embarked early the following morning and arrived at the 
mouth of Black River about noon, and the lake being rough, we encamped 
with our boats in a safe harbor on the west side, in the mouth of Black River, 
near the residence of John S. Reid, whom I had known, when a few years pre- 
vious he had resided some three or four miles from Cleveland on the Newburg 
road. Embarked early, July 12, and arrived about the middle of the day at 



268 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

Sandusky Bay, and stopped at a blockhouse on the north side of the bay, on 
the Peninsula of Danbury. I understood it was called Maj. Parson's block- 
house, and I think it was nearly opposite to where I have since found San- 
dusk}^ City. We saw no settlement here, and saw no settler that I remember 
but one, Capt. Charles Parker, who came from the south side of the bay, 
where I understood he resided. He was the same who was a pioneer in 
Geauga (now Lake County), at Mentor. I had known him there when he was 
acting Sheriff of Geauga County in 1806 and after. We had met and passed 
a sail boat at a distance, just before entering the bay, which was I think the 
only craft we had seen on our way. Those of us on Babcock's boat spent the 
night in the block-house; Smith's boat anchored out in the bay. 

On the 13th of July both boats proceeded up the bay, and up the Sandusky 
River, slowly, passing some prairies but no white settlement, and moving so 
slowly that some of us walked along shore part of the way. While walking 
we passed over the stubble of Indian corn patches of the previous years, and 
on the way fell in with a venerable and good-looking old Indian, known 
to some of our comrades as Sagaman, an old chief who had in previous years 
had his camps in Portage County, and had been a good kind neighbor to the 
first settlers of Mantua, in the winter of 1799-1800, and helped them to meat, 
at fair rates of exchange, for pumpkins and other small articles. He was still 
friendly, while Wilson and other Indians had left us and gone to the British. 
We arrived at Widow Whittaker's, on the west side, where we found an 
improved farm, surrounded by timber land. This was said to be three miles 
by water from our destination, the fort or stockade of Lower Sandusky, as it 
was called. 

On July 14 we proceeded up the river, and landed on the west side below 
the rapids, about half a mile from the fort, marched up, and were admitted 
into the garrison, where we found Capt. Norton, with his company of about 
fifty volunteer riflemen from Delaware County, Ohio. The fort was a stockade 
of log pickets, cut about twelve feet, and set upright, with a shallow ditch 
enclosing about an acre. Within were one or two small houses, in one of which 
was kept the United States store and Indian agency. The Indian Agent, Mr. 
Varnum, was said to be a son of Hon. Joseph B. Varnum, of Massachusetts, 
Speaker of the United States House of Representatives from 1807 to 1811. 
We found him a very pleasant, gentlemanly young man. The fort was some 
thirty rods west of the river, at the rapids, and on the nearest high land was 
an open country with a few scattering oak trees about it on the north, and oak 
woods at the west, a large cornfield on the east side of the river on the bottom 
land, and a log-house on the first rise of land east of the cornfield. That was 
all the farming or farm houses I saw in that region. 

The barracks or soldiers' quarters, we found not very commodious, but 
sufficient for summer quarters. They consisted of bark or puncheon, laid up 
with two sides seven or eight feet long and five or six feet wide, backed 
against the pickets and open in front where we built our cooking fires, having 
to go in the woods and pack the little fuel we used. We had only the ground 
to lie on till we peeled some oak bark for a floor, and for our Jjeds we stripped 
foliage from the hazel bushes, as straw was not to be had. 

We saw very few persons here, whites or Indians, except soldiers. Our 
business was, besides our daily parade, to dig a well and build block-houses. 
We had got a well dug about twenty feet deep, when an Indian was brought 
there charged with horse stealing, I believe, from Mrs. Whittaker. He was 
confined some days in our dry well, until a council was held with the Indians 
of Seneca Town, an Indian village several miles up the river, at which they 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 269 

agreed to furnish a good dressed beef for the garrison, and our prisoner was 
released, and a fine, fat, well-dressed heifer was furnished for the gari'ison, 
and the horse was restored. The fresh beef was well relished indeed, after we 
had been kept on salt pork and bread so long, but so many of the garrison 
were soon taken sick, that we suspected the Indians of poisoning the beef. 

We had not yet finished our well or our block-house, when on July 21, orders 
were received from Gen. Hull, at Detroit, by our Captain, to march there with 
his and Rowland's companies to join the main army. With these orders, 
sent by a Capt. Curtis, came also some money to our Captain to pay for the 
supplies he had obtained for us; but no money came to pay soldiers. On July 
22 Capt. Campbell started for Portage County, to pay those from whom 
he had obtained our supplies, leaving orders to make all ready while he should 
be absent. On July 29 Capt. Campbell returned, accompanied by Capt. 
Rowland, of the Columbiana County Volunteers, who came in advance of his 
company. About the same time nearly all the garrison were taken sick with' 
diarrhoea and fever. Some were entirely disabled, others were just able to 
walk about. Capt, Rowland's company arrived at the fort by water, 
August 2, and on the 4th both companies started by water down the river, 
halted at Mrs. Whittaker's, stayed over night, and remained next day to attend 
to the sick, of whom Capt. Campbell and Seth Day were very low. 

On the 6th Rowland's company started by land up the lake toward 
Detroit, and with them Lieut. Caris, who was detailed with a squad of eleven 
men to guard the post and stores at Maumee. Of that squad I only remem- 
ber the names of Sergt. Ely, Samuel Hartle, Henry Root and John Jacobs. 
The last mentioned died there some time after. The same day Capt. Camp- 
bell, with the remainder of our company, went by boat down the river and bay 
from Mrs. Whittaker's to the Parson's Block-house, on Danbury Peninsula. 
Next day, August 7, Capt. Campbell and Seth Day, being much worse than 
others of the company, were aided on board John Wallace's boat, and started 
down the lake for Cleveland, with one attendant, Philip Willyard; and Lieut. 
Day and the balance of the company started west for the River Raisin, 
on Babcock's boat, the same boat we came up the lake on near a month before. 

From Sandusky Bay we sailed day and night till we arrived near the mouth 
of the River Raisin on the forenoon of August 7, where we were hindered 
some hours among the bulrushes and flags, hunting the channel, which we 
finally found, and proceeded up the river a mile or two, and arrived at the 
settlement of Frenchtown about noon, stopping at Godfrey's unfinished frame 
house on our right bank, about noon. There we stayed over night, and next 
day on an alarm of "Indians coming" we moved on to the garrison, about a 
half mile up the river, on same side. Next day, August 10, we moved to other 
quarters, some of the sick to a vacant log-house on the south side of the river, 
others to Capt. Downing's, a kind, good family, nearly a mile above the gar- 
rison. There Lieut. Day. Sergt. Day, Sergt. Wright and John McManus, 
who were our sickest, with Ensign Weston and John Smith to attend 
them, were located with that kind family. The log- house Avhere the 
most of us were located stood alone, had a good spring and timber near, and 
not far from the river, and I think it was there, some forty years after, I found 
the flourishing city of Monroe, Mich. We remained at those places nearly 
all sick, but most of us able to walk about, until an alarm of Indians coming 
to attack us, on August 14, when, though the alarm proved a false one, 
all who occupied the log- house went to the garrison, where we stayed till 
Monday, the 17th, when Capt. Elliott, a British officer, and a few attend- 
ants, white and red, with a flag of truce, came to the garrison, demanding its 



270 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

surrender, hrin':^ing also the articles of capitulation of Detroit and the army 
under Geu Hull, including also all who were on the way to join his army, 
which included our garrison. This, so unexpected, was indeed a damper on 
ns all, as the last we had heard of Hull's army was by a hand-bill announcing 
his successful invasion of Canada. The flag party was placed under guard, 
and a council of officers met in a marquee of the Chillicothe Cavalry Company, 
a company just arrived, escorting a drove of beef cattle for Detroit, said to be 
about one hundred head, for the army. The marquee was outside the front 
gate of the garrison, and I was enabled to observe the discussions of the 
officers, of whom Capt. Brush, of the Chillicothe Cavalry, was or assumed 
to be the senior officer, and of the others I only knew Lieut. Creighton, 
of the same company. Maj. Anderson, of the local militia of the Territory, 
was near by on horseback, a good-looking officer, but I understood was not 
admitted in council because of suspicions that the local militia were not loyal 
to our side. 

The genuineness of the articles of capitulation brought by Elliott were 
questioned, and, as I understood, declared to be a forgery and a trick to trap 
us. Finally Elliott and attendants were imprisoned in the block- house, 
near the front gate of the garrison, where we left them when we retired for 
the night. That night we slept at Lacelle's Mill, just above the garrison, 
and the next morning we found that the Chillicothe Cavalry and their drove 
of beeves were gone, and a number of our company also had gone homeward. 
I had left my rifle standing in the corner of the mill that night, but in the 
morning it was gone also, and some of my comrades suggested that it was 
taken by one who would carry it back to Portage County and keep it from the 
British. The same night Sergt. John Wright died at Captain Downing's, 
and was buried by his friends before morning. Our company was thus reduced 
to twenty-six men. The policy of leaving for home that night had been dis- 
cussed, and those who felt able and were so disposed, had gone; but some 
were not able to go, and some who went were scarcely able to endure such a 
journey. For my part, I thought there was more danger in running away 
than in quietly submitting to be prisoners of war. Besides I was feeble, and 
liad two older brothers along not as able as myself — one of them very feeble. 
We therefore submitted to the yoke, and stayed where we were, till August 
25. Meantime the Indians circulated freely among us, but olfered no violence 
to any that I heard of. One, however, meeting our comrade, John Smith, on 
the road, demanded his watch, which he was obliged to give up. The watch 
belonged to Lieut. Day, whom Smith was attending in his sickness, at 
Capt. Downing's. One Indian also stopped at Downing's, where our sickest 
friends were, and demanded of Lieut. Day his nice castor hat, and took 
it, leaving one that had been a poorer fur hat, but now, being wet with rain, 
was slouched down like a rag. 

August 25 a British officer, whom we understood to be Capt. Elliott, 
and a squad of soldiers, came and took twenty one of us in a small open row 
boat to Maiden, and, at the same time, gave permission and a pass to live 
others, who had made arrangements to go by boat to Cleveland. Those five 
were Job Thompson, Jr., Daniel Burroughs, Jr., William Coolman, Jr., William 
Maxfield and Ebenezer Buckley, who, with a Mr. Lewis, and another man and 
their families, had prepared a boat, and all started down the river and lake 
the same day we went to Fort Maiden. Of their journey down the lake to 
Cleveland, friend William Coolman, not long before his death, gave me a 
brief narrative, which will be referred to hereafter. Since his death, which 
occurred December 15, 18C9, there are, as I believe, but two of our company 
left — Samuel liedtield and the writer of this article. 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 271 

Our small company of twenty-one, under our British conductors, arrived 
at Maiden, from Raisin, the same day, August 25, and were quartered at a 
large and long building, on a beautiful open plain and lawn, just above and 
near the fort and town. This was the Indian Council House, and there 
appeared to be thousands of Indians swarming in the open plain back of the 
town and fort, and in plain sight of the Council House; and with us were quar- 
tered fifty-one other prisoners, mostly sick and wounded of Hull's army. There 
our beloved Orderly Sergeant, Lewis Day, Jr., breathed his last, on the morn- 
ing after our arrival, August 26. August 27 our little company, now reduced 
to twenty, were permitted to remove from the crowded Council House and 
occupy a small house in town, back of the fort, where we spent the few 
remaining days of our captivity in Canada. While there we were guarded by 
a British sentinel at the door, as we had been also at the Council House, but 
one day the sentinel permitted an Indian to enter among us, who drew his 
knife and dashed about, apparently to frighten us, jabbering his Indian in a 
threatening tone, striking some, but not extremely hard. Zacheas Harmon, 
who was so feeble as to be hardly able to walk, Mr. Indian struck in the breast, 
and knocked down with his right hand, in which he held his knife, but with 
the hilt of the knife. He was soon induced by the sentinel to leave. We saw 
there several Indians well known in Portage County. I saw two in town I 
had known in Mantua. One of them was well known throughout that country 
— George Vincent, alias Wilson. 

August 29, about sunset, we were embarked on board a small vessel, to be 
paroled and sent home, in company with about thirty other prisoners, the 
most of whom were sick. On the dock, as we were going on board, were 
some officers, apparently superintending our departure, among whom was one 
large and noble looking man, apparently fifty years old, whom we were told 
was Gen. Brock. Another, a short, thick- set fellow, of not a very pre- 
possessing appearance, and apparently past sixty, was said to be Simon Girty, 
noted in Indian war annals. We were rejoiced to be thus starting for home, 
and dropped down to the mouth of Detroit River the same night, about two and 
a half miles distant. The next day we sailed slowly with light wind, and after 
midnight, anchored just west of Put-in-Bay Islands. Next day, August 
31, a light wind wafted us on to near the mouth of Black River before day on 
the 1st of September, and we landed in Cleveland about sunset of the same day. 

The following are the names of those twenty paroled prisoners of our 
company, according to my recollection, who landed at Cleveland September 1, 
from the cartel sloop: » 

Lieut. Alva Day. Harry O. Pettibone. 

Ensign Aaron Weston. Zacheas Harmon. 

Sergt. Ralph Buckland. Enos Harmon. 

Corporal Charles Chittenden. John Harmon. 

Corporal John Turner. Mark Moore. 

John Smith. Samuel C. Thompson. 

Samuel Redfield. Samuel Tuthill. 

George G. Redden. James Magi 11. 

Richard Redden. David Jones. 

James Ray, Jr. John McManus. 

Of the five comrades we parted with August 25, at Frenchtown, on River 
Raisin, as we started for Maiden, friend Coolman informed me, the last con- 
versation I had with him, which was December 4, 1869, that they started the 
same day, in a boat provided by a Mr. Lewis and another man, whose name 
I forget, who were going down with their families to escape from the British 



272 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

and Indians; that Job Thompson, Jr., the only well one of the Shalers- 
ville boys, engaged a passage with them for himself and comrades, and 
helped to get the boat out of the mud, where it had been left abandoned, 
assisted to caulk and otherwise repair it; that as they were about to start, Eben- 
ezer Buckley and William Maxfield joined them; that they were much hindered 
by adverse winds on their passage down the lake; and finally, at some place 
near Black River, out of patience with waiting for weather, they left the boat 
and endeavored to walk, but made poor headway, when Mr. Mygatt, of Can- 
field, on horseback, overtook them, and carried a message to friends at Cleve 
land, who, with wagons, met and helped them into Cleveland, where they ar- 
rived, he believed, September 2. Of the journey home of Lieut. Caris and his 
squad from Maumee, where they were stationed, and of those who left French- 
town on foot, I have but little information, except that in going through the 
Maumee Swamp, as that part of Wood and Sandusky Counties between Fort 
Meigs and Sandusky River was then called, they, at times, nearly gave out, 
and one, I think it was William Ward, sat down at one time and gave up, till 
a comrade came along and cheered him up and helped him along. Many of 
us then had chills or ague. We were from thirty to fifty-five miles from oar 
homes, but on arriving in Cleveland we found friends, a very convenient circum- 
stance, as we discovered for those who had no money, as was the case with all or 
nearly all of us, except Lieut. Day, and I think he had not much. Landlord 
Carter entertained all free who called there. Cousin Hiram Hanchett and his 
kind wife— since Mrs. Andrew Johnson, of Boston — entertained the Harmons, 
W. W. Williams entertained the Reddens, and Samuel S. Baldwin fed some 
of us; but all got started home soon except Lieut. Alva Day, Seth Day and 
John McManus, who were very dangerously sick, and, I have understood, were 
kindly nursed and cared for at Judge Kingsbury's, till they were able to be 
conveyed home. John Turner, too, was very sick, and died on the way, per- 
haps at Judge Kingsbury's, but I believe I heard it said he died at Noble's, 
at the crossing of Tinker's Creek. Of the fifty or fifty- one who went out so 
cheerily together, eleven or twelve died within the year, among whom, besides 
those before mentioned, were, I believe. Ensign Weston, Sergt. Buckiand, Cor- 
poral Chittenden, Mark Mooi-e, Robert Campbell, David Jones, and Samuel 
Tuthill. 

Of the rest, as far as I know, but one is left now, besides the writer of 
this. That one, Mr. Redfield, aids me with some information for this com- 
munication, and though about seventy- six years of age, appears likely to 
endure yet many years, though he has lately lost the partner of his youth, 
and of more than half a century. Although we were so unfortunate as to con- 
tract sickness, and did little toward the defense of the frontier, it was because 
we had no opportunity, having been captured before we saw the enemy. We 
at least showed a willingness to do our duty in defense of our homes. We 
had a very good and pleasant set of officers, and there formed friendships for 
each other which have been pleasant and enduring. For our services and our 
arms we were paid after years of waiting. 

Having brought to a close my narrative of the volunteering, organizing, 
adventures, inglorious capture, parole and return home of our company — the 
first military company ever raised in this part of Ohio — I propose now to 
refer to subsequent events, in which the people of Portage and adjoining 
counties were concerned. The capture of the army under Gen. Hull caused much 
alarm, as might be expected, in all this region, as our population was then very 
sparse, and all the region west of the Cuyahoga River and the Portage Path was 
then very sparsely settled. Not an organized township or military company 




■^ 



^■t^U^ ^}7^^^rr^^^ 





HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 275 

existed in Medina County, which then extended west to Huron Count j, and 
was attached to Portage for civil purposes, the whole region sixty-eight and a 
half miles in length from east to west, and twenty to twenty-five in breadth, 
contained in 1810 less than 3,000 people, and had not increased very 
much in two short years. All that region west of the eighth range included 
then a single battalion, commanded by Major, afterward Col. George Darrow. 
The townships of Streetsboro, Brimfield, Freedom and Edinburg were then 
unsettled. Franklin and Suffield had but very few settlers. So that the 
thinly settled counties of Portage and Cuyahoga were then the frontier, and it 
is not strange that the people of this region were much alarmed on learning 
the news of the capture of all the army raised for our defense, all between ue 
and the victorious British and their savage allies. The record I copy from 
our Regimental Record book will show something of the alarm felt by our 
home friends on the first news of the disastrous capture of our army. 

Copy of records of the Second Regiment, Fourth Brigade, Fourth Division, 
Ohio Militia. [Begun on page 33.] 

Orders were received from Brig. -Gen. Paine, dated July 6, 1812, requiring 
thirty men to be drafted, including one Lieutenant, one Sergeant, one Corporal and one 
Fifer, to hold themselves in readiness to march at a moment's warning, and orders were 
issued by the Major, commanding, to the commissioned officers, to meet at Ravenna, the 
14th of July, 1812, and on said 14th day of July the following officers met at the Court 
House in Ravenna: Stephen Mason, Major-Commandant; Major, Thaddeus Andrews; 
Captains, Delaun Mills, Joshua Woodward, Asa K. Burroughs and Timothy Culver; 
Lieutenants, Oliver Snow, John Redding, Linus Carter, Hezekiah Hine, Charles Gilbert, 
Ira Morse and Isaac Merriman; Ensigns, Asa Truesdale, Hezekiah Kooney, Anson Bee- 
man, Frederick Caris, Jr.; and agreeable to said officers' request, the Major commanding 
ordered that there be drafted from the First Company, First Battalion, three men; from 
the Second Company, First Battalion, one Lieutenant and three men; from the Third 
Company, First Battalion, four men; from the Fourth Company, First Battalion, one man; 
from the First Company, Second Battalion, one Fifer and six men; from the Second Com- 
pany, Second Battalion, one Sergeant and three men; from the Third Company, Second 
Battalion, one Corporal and four men; from the Fourth Company, Second Battalion, two 
men, with orders to hold themselves in readiness to march at a moment's warning, armed 
and equipped as the law directs. 

Then follows the dates of several commissions, to- wit: Hezekiah Nooney's 
commission as Captain; and Ella Willmot's commission as Ensign of First Com- 
pany, First Battalion, both dated June 18, 1812. Also Linus Curtis' com- 
mission of Second Company, First Battalion, dated August 28, 1812. 

An express from Gen. Paine, dated Painesville, August 22, 1812, was 
received the same day, and orders were immediately issued by Thaddeus An- 
drews, as Major commanding, to have the regiment meet at Ravenna forth- 
with. An express from Maj.-Gen. Wadeworth, dated August 23, was 
received by Maj. Andrews, to have the regiment under his command meet at 
Ravenna immediately and await there until further orders were received from 
him. At 9 o'clock P. M., the 23d, Maj.-Gen. Wadsworth delivered rerbal 
orders to Maj. Andrews, to have the regiment, as soon as embodied at Ravenna, 
march for Cleveland. The regiment was embodied at 11 o'clock A. M., the 
24th, and marched at 3 P. M. the same day, and encamped at Mr. Roundy's. 
The next day, the 25th, marched from Mr. Roundy's and encamped et the 
center of Hudson. The next day, marched from Hudson, and arrived and 
encamped at Tinker's Creek, and the next day, the 27th, marched from Tink- 
er's Creek, arrived at Cleveland, and reported the regiment to Maj.-Gen. 
Wadsworth, who ordered the regiment to encamp in Cleveland, and await fur- 
ther orders. The 30th, the following order was received, which was read to 
the regiment on the 3l8t- 



276 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

Cleteland, Headquarters, August 30, 1812. 
Maj. Stephen Mason. — You will dismiss the regiment under your command for 
the present, but under the express conditions that they hold themselves in readiness to 
inarch at a moment's warning. Joel Paine, Oeneral- Brigade. 

After the foregoing, copied from page 33 of the Record, follow several 
pages of names of those who thus marched to Cleveland, with their several 
charges for services thus performed. The charges were mostly for nine days' 
services for each private, except Capt. T. Culver's company from Randolph, 
and Lieut. Morse's company from Deerfield and Atwatei', both of which com- 
panies had charged ten days' service for each private, all at the rate of $5 per 
month, carried out, the one at $1.50 and the other at $1.60. I know not 
whether the men were ever paid, but I know that many of them got their land 
warrants, for I helped obtain them, and those men who did not obtain war- 
rants, or their widows, can have them. I would like to help them to warrants. 

That it maybe known who were the pioneer men of those days — but few of 
whom now remain — I will here insert the names of those who thus responded 
to the call of their country, to defend it against the British and their sav- 
age allies, who were then daily expected on our frontier, after the news 
arrived of Hull's surrender, when many were so alarmed as to prepare to flee 
the country, and some, I believe, did leave. I copy the companies, in the 
order as I find them on the record, each company record separate, and all 
charged as in actual service from the 24th of August to September 1, 1812, 
inclusive, and each signed by its Captain or Lieutenant commanding. 

RETURN OF FIRST COMPANY. 

First Battalion, Second Regiment, Fourth Brigade, Fourth Division, 
Ohio Militia. 

Captain — Hezekiah Nooney. 

Lieutenant — Oliver Snow. 

Ensign— Ella Wilmot. 

Sergeants — -Seth Harmon, Gersham Judson, Horace Ladd, Ariel Walden. 

Corporals — Henry Blair, Phineas Pond, Moses Mcintosh, Bazel Windsor, Jr. 

Fifer — Joseph Skinner. 

Drummer — Virgil Moore. 

Privates— Jotham Atwater, Thomas Bright, Peter Carlton, Henry R. Fer- 
ris, Samuel Judson, Eleazer Ladd, Ezekiel Ladd, Lyman Leland, Samuel 
Moore, Jr., Moses Pond, David Pond, Franklin Snow, John Gardner, Elisha 
J. Wilmot, Patrick Ray, William Russell. 

RETURN OF SECOND COMPANY. 

First Battalion, Second Regiment, Fourth Brigade, etc. 

Lieutenant — John Redding. 

Ensign — Asa Truesdale. 

Sergeants— Chester Adams, Oliver Mills, George Young, Benjamin Higley. 

Corporals — David Bancroft, Elisha Hutchinson, Caleb Stow, Hiram Mes- 
senger. 

Fifer — Freeman Conant. 

Privates — Oliver Alford, Levi Alford, Artemus Baker, Rodolphus Ban- 
croft, Asahel Blair, Simon Babcock, Abraham Dyson, Hezekiah Higley, 
Ephraim Hacket, Thomas Johnston, Orrin Pitkin, Joseph Southard, Ephraim 
H. Seeley, John Streator. 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 277 

RETURN OF THIRD COMPANY. 

First Battalion, Second Regiment, Fourth Brigade, etc. 

Captain — Joshua Woodward. 

Lieutenant— Linus Curtis. 

Ensign— x\.nson Beeman. 

Sergeants — Almon Babcock, Elijah Smith. 

Privates — Alanson Baldwin, Ralzaraan Loomis, John King, John Smith, 
Peter Wolford, Abel Forsha, Abel Thompson, James Knowlton, George 
Barnes, Quartua Noble, Ebenezer Broadway, David Ci-osby, Jesse Miller, 
James Cook, Silas Owen. 

RETURN OF FOURTH COMPANY. 

First Battalion, Second Regiment, Fourth Brigade, etc. 

Captain — Asa K. Burroughs. 

Lieutenant — Hezekiah Hine. 

Ensign — Richard E. Gay. 

Sergeant — Samuel Munson. 

Privates — Joel Baker, Abel Hine, Lyman Hine, Ephraim Brown. 

RETURN OF FIRST COMPANY. 

Second Battalion, Second Regiment, Fourth Brigade, etc. 

Lieutenant — Ira Morse. 

Sergeants — Hamlet Coe, Jeremiah Jones, Alexander K. Hubbard. 

Corporal — Caleb Mattoon. 

Privates — William Hartzel, Robert Taylor, Jr., Moses Baldwin, Allen C. 
Baldwin, Elijah Mott, John H. \Yhittlesey, Asahel Blakesley, Jesse SutliflF, 
James Laughlin, Almon Chittenden, Abraham Hartzell, Ami Baldwin, Ralph 
Granger, William A. Strong, Joseph Carter, John Quier, Horatio Day, Ezekiel 
Mott, Ira Mansfield, Peter Hartzell, Peter Mason, John Hartzell, Jr. , Ephraim 
B. Hubbard, Amos Morse, Garrett Packard. 

RETURN OF SECOND COMPANY. 

Second Battalion, Second Regiment, Fourth Brigade, etc. 

Captain — Frederick Caris, Jr. 

Sergeants — David Collins, Titus Belding, Samuel Coe, Gersham Norris. 

Corporals — Samuel B. Spellman, Ariel Case, Lemuel Chapman. 

Fifer — Asahel Gurley. 

Drummer — Alpheus Andrews. 

Privates — Abraham Reed, Timothy Reed, Robert McKnight, Jr., John Will- 
yard, Mason Richardson, Ephraim Chapman, Chester Chapman, Beman 
Chapman, Daniel Collins, Joseph R. Bostwick, Calvin Ellsworth, Charles H. 
Bostwick. 

RETURN OF THIRD COMPANY. 

Second Battalion, Second Regiment, Fourth Brigade, etc. 

Lieutenant — Charles Gilbert. 

Sergeants— Hugh McDaniel, Lyman P. Gilbert, Truman Gilbert. 

Corporals — Gaius Smith, Zebulon Walker. 

Privates — Amasa Preston, Chauncey Lowry, Adna H. Bostwick, John Shaw, 
John Fisher, James Tuttle, James Hazzard, Gabriel Cane, William Jewel, 
Marvin Gilbert, Dalton Trowbridge, John McKelvy, Roswell Smith, David 
Gano, Nicholas Shank, Joseph Lewis. 



278 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

KETURN OF FOURTH COMPANY. 

Second Battalion, Second Regiment, Fourth Brigade, etc. 

Captain — Timothy Culver. 

Lieutenant — Isaac Merriman. 

Sergeants — Walter Dickinson, William Rogers. 

Corporals — Oliver C. Dickinson, Ephraim Sabin. 

Privates — Arad Upson, Freeman Upson, - Elisha Sears, John Goss, The- 
ophilus Cross, Josiah Ward, Henry P. Hosier, Jehiel Savage, Joseph Harris. 

After the eight companies I find a list of regimental officers, including 
regimental stafif, as follows: 

Major Commandant — Stephen Mason. 

Major — Thaddeus Andrews. 

Adjutant — Erastus Skinner, 

Quartermaster— Charles Curtis. 

Paymaster — Hiram Roundy. 

Clerk — Frederick Wadsworth. 

Assistant Quartermaster — Arthur Anderson. 

Quartermaster Sergeant — William Kennedy. 

Surgeon — Joseph DeW'olf. 

Fife Major— Philo Hall. 

Privates — Horace Burroughs, Greenwood Burroughs, Daniel Ward, Ashur 
Garley. 

With the wagon transportation, Robert Eaton and John Sabin are named, 
and the United States is charged with their services with teams; Sabin's $13.- 
75, and Eaton's $16.33. Total charged for the regiment, $546.60. 

These muster or pay rolls are probably copies of those sent to the War 
Department, on which the money was expected to be drawn. In copying, I 
have abbreviated and omitted some formalities of the pay roll. As far as I 
know, nearly all the adult male population were included in the rolls, as not 
more than one man in ten was past forty-live. 

On page 39 is the record of the draft made, agreeable to orders of July 
34, 1812, to-wit: First Company, First Battalion, David Pond, Ezra Chaffee 
and Eleazer Ladd. Second Company, First Battalion, Lieut. John Red- 
ding, Hezekiah Higley as a substitute for Seth Cole, George Young and 
David Wood. Third Company, First Battalion, David Thompson, David 
Grier, William Jones, John Baldwin. Fourth Company, First Battalion, 
Abel Hine. 

For the First Company, Second Battalion, David Abbott, David Baldwin, 
Lelon Landon, Merrick Ely, Robert Taylor, Jr., William Hartzell, Joseph 
Hartzell (Fifer). For Second Company, Second Battalion, Sergt. Gersham 
Norris, Ariel Case, Robert McKnight, Jr., Timothy Reed. For Third Com- 
pany, Second Battalion, Corporal Zebulon Walker, Adna H. Bostwick, John 
Shaw, Gabriel Cane, John Fisher. For Fourth Company, Second Battalion, 
Levi Seeley, Jr., George Burr. 

The following order was received from General Paine: 

Painesville, September 18, 1813. 
Col. John Campbell — Sir: You are hereby ordered to draft out of the regiment 
under your command, thirty men, including one Lieutenant, two Sergeants, two Cor- 
porals, and one Fifer, to be in readiness to march at a moment's warning; and you are to 
march twenty-two men to join Capt. Lusk at the Portage, of the former draft. They 
are to furnish themselves with knapsacks and blankets, and they are to be furnished with 
arms and equipments by the public. Joel Paine, General- Brigade. 

In compliance with the above order, orders were issued to the commandants 
of companies, to furnish their respective quotas; and the following persons 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 279 

were returned by the commandants of companies, as persons legally notified 
to march on said tour of duty, viz. : David Pond, Eleazer Ladd, Seth Cole, 
Ebenezer O. IMessenger, Harvey Messenger, David Thompson, Zenas Carter, 
Norval Carter, Abel Hine, David Abbott, William Hartzell, David Baldwin, 
Robert Taylor, Jr., Benjamin Marshall. Eobert McKnight, Jr., Timothy Reed, 
Gabriel Cane, John Fisher, Adna H. Bostwick, John Shaw, Levi Seeley, Jr., 
and George Burr. 

And also to comply with the said order of the 18th of September, the fol- 
lowing persons were notified to hold themselves in readiness to march at a 
moment's warning, viz. : From the First Company, First Battalion, Jotham 
Atwater, Jacob W. Pettibone, William Russell, Sergt. Gersham Judson, 
Corporals Moses, Mcintosh, Bazel Windsor, Jr. From Second Company, First 
Battalion, Asahel Blair, Joseph Southard, Thomas Johnston. From the 
Third Company, First Battalion, John Baldwin, John Shaler, Alanson Bald- 
win, Isaac P. Skinner. 

From the First Company, Second Battalion, Moses Baldwin, Allen C. 
Baldwin, Elijah Mott, John H Whittlesey, Asahel Whittlesey. From the 
Second Company, Second Battalion, Robert Collins, Jr., Abram Reed, Mason 
Richardson. From the Third Company, Second Battalion, Jabez Gilbert, 
William Jewel, David Gano, David Calvin. From the Fourth Company, Sec- 
ond Battalion, Alpheus Dickinson, Arad Upson. 

Verbal orders were given by Maj.-Gen. Wadsworth at the Portage, to 
Stephen Mason, Major Commandant of the Second Regiment, Fourth Brigade, 
Fourth Division, on the 28th of September, 1812, to march all the mounted 
men, who could be immediately raised in said regiment, to Gen. Wadsworth's 
headquarters at the Portage. And agreeably to said orders the following per- 
sons mustered at Ravenna, Ist of October, marched to Portage, and reported 
to Maj.-Gen. Wadsworth, viz.: Stephen Mason, Major Commandant; Joseph 
DeWolf, Surgeon; Rufus Edwards, Quartermaster; Delaun Mills, Captain; 
John Caris, Lieutenant; Asa Truesdale, Ensign; Titus Belding, Gersham Nor- 
ris, Samuel Coe and Chester Adams, Sergeants; David A. Rumsay, Henry 
Blair, Caleb Stow and Moses Mcintosh, Corporals; Daniel Ward, Drummer; 
Joseph Skinner, Abraham Dyson, Bazel Windsor, Jr., Gersham Judson, Henry 
R. Ferris, Horatio Taylor, John Willyard, John Redding, John Gardner, John 
Shaler, Joseph R. Bostwick, Orrin Pitkin, Quartus Noble, Rodolphus Bancroft, 
Simon Babcock, Samuel Judson, Samuel Moore, Jr., Titon Rudolph, William 
Kennedy, Jr., W^areham Loomis, Ezekiel Ladd, Charles Bostwick, John 
Smith and Ephraim Hacket, Privates. 

The following order was issued: 

Headquarters, Portage, October 2, 1813. 
Maj. Mason — Sir: You will march all the mounted men of Col. Campbell's regi- 
ment to Huron, with all possible dispatch. Furnish them with three days' provisions. 
Keport yourself to Gen. Perkins. Elijah Wadsworth ,Major- General. 

And in compliance with said orders, they marched to Huron and reported 
to Brig.-Gen. Simon Perkins, who on the J 0th of October issued the follow- 
ing order: 

Maj. Stephen Mason — Sir: You will march the officers and privates named in the 
annexed list to Headquarters at Portage, and report yourself to the commanding oflficer. 

Simon Perkins, Brigadier- General. 
Camp Avery, October 10, 1812. 

It further appears by the record, that on the arrival of Maj. Mason, Capt. 
Mills and their mounted men at Portage, "that Gen. Wadsworth gave orders 
for their discharge, but it does not appear how many or who were discharged. 



280 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

as the ^Hist annexecf^ mentioned in the order of Geo. Perkins' is not recorded. 

It further appears, that Gen. Paine, on February 2, 1813, by an order 
dated at Painesville, called for one Lieutenant, one Second Sergeant, one 
Third Sergeant, one Second Corporal, and eighteen privates from the Second 
Regiment, "to march to Lower Sandusky as soon as possible, to relieve the 
men now in service," to comply with which order the following persons were 
returned by commandants of companies on February 16, 1813, as legally 
notified to perform said tour of duty, viz. : Virgil Moore, as a substitute 
for Jotham Atwater, John Gardner as a substitute for Jacob W. Pettibone, 
Asahel Blair, Joseph Southard, both of whom absconded, Thomas John- 
ston, Phineas Pond as a substitute for Orrin Pitkin, Charles Carter as a 
substitute for David Grier, William Jones, John Shaler, George Wilber, 
Merrick Ely. Moses Baldwin, Allen C. Baldwin, Robert McKnight, Jr., Sergt. 
Lyman P. Gilbert, John Fisher, Austin Purdy, Sergt. Waller Dickinson, 
Corporal Oliver C. Dickinson, William Jewel, Richard Rogers, Jr., Alpheus 
Dickinson and Arad Upson; and on February 15 Lieut. John Redding, Cor- 
poral Oliver C. Dickinson, Richard Rogers, Jr, Robert McKnight, Jr., Alpheus 
Dickinson, Virgil Moore, John Gardner, John Shaler, William Jones, and 
Moses Baldwin appeared according to orders at Ravenna, had their equip- 
ments appraised by Charles Curtis, Linus Curtis, and John Campbell, 
appraisers, which is the last the record says of the services of those so drafted. 

On page 42 is the following record: "The Major Commandant issued 
orders to the Major of the Second Battalion, and to the commandants of each 
company in the I'egiment, to meet at the Court House, in Ravenna, on the 29th 
of March, 1813, for the purpose of assessing fines upon persons who refused 
to perform tours of duty, when legally called on, and the commandants of 
companies ordered to notify the delinquents in their respective companies." 
And this is the last of our war record, as then follows some thirteen large 
blank pages, left apparently to record the assessment of tines for non- perform- 
ance of "tours of duty."' After the"se blank leaves follows the regular record 
of ordinary regimental boards for ordinary business, but no more drafting 
orders. I think, however, but few of our drafted men evaded the draft. I 
knew of the services of many of them. Several I knew to be posted at Camp 
Avery, which was near the present village of Milan, Erie County. 

After our return from the service, September, 1812, I knew little of the 
war movements, except what was found in the papers, and papers were then 
scarce. I can give little information of the times subsequent to those records, 
than what I have given in this communication, that would be valuable to the 
Historical Society. I spent some time in Cleveland in December, 1812, and 
there became acquainted with Maj. Jessup, Quartermaster Biddle, and his 
assistant, Mr. Downing, son of Capt. Downing, of Frenchtown, River Raisin, 
and was informed of the then recent raising and organization of a volunteer 
company in Cuyahoga and Geauga Counties, with Clark Parker, Captain, and 
Harvey Murray, Lieutenant. I think it was then out at one of the posts of 
the West. 

I was in Harpersfield in the summer of 1813, when Capt. James Harper 
was recruiting, and was offered a position by him, but being still a prisoner 
on parole, would not forfeit my parole. We were not informed of our 
exchange for about two years after our return. But several of our company 
did again enter the service, before we were informed of our exchange. I 
believe Samuel C. Thompson, Charles Carter and John Smith, and perhaps 
some others, were out in the service some time in 1813 and 1814. Though we 
were not specially successful, we had much cause to rejoice, and be proud at 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 281 

the prowess and progress of our armies thereafter, and of the final success of 
our arms; and especially that the war finally broke up the baneful influence 
of the British over the Western Indians, on our territory. 

With this I close my communication on the subject of the war of 1812. 

John Harmon, Ravenna, February, 1870. 

In the summer of 1813 every able-bodied man in Portage County not then 
in active service or on parole was ordered to Cleveland, and the scattered 
settlements were left defenseless. It is a part of the tradition of that time 
that the sound of the cannonading in the battle of Lake Erie, fought Septem- 
ber 10, 1813, was plainly heard in this county. A messenger arrived at Raven- 
na from Cleveland the same night, warning the women and children, in case 
of Perry's defeat, to be ready to fly to Pittsburgh. All next day the families 
residing in this section anxiously waited for definite information as to the 
result of the battle, but as night came on the sound of a horn was heard in the 
direction of Shalersville, then a voice was distinguished, and soon an excited 
horseman dashed into the village with the joyful tidings of Perry's great vic- 
tory. The terrible suspense and dread of Indians were past, and soon gave 
way to thanksgiving and rejoicing over the brilliant success of the American 
naval forces on Lake Erie. 

The following distressing incident of this period may appropriately be 
given in connection with the history of Portage County in the war of 1812. 
Daniel Cross, an early settler of Randolph Township, hearing that produce 
and provisions of every sort were very scarce and commanded high prices at the 
military camp near Wooster, Ohio, set out from his home in December, 1812, 
with a load of oats for that point. He was accompanied by his son, a young 
man about eighteen years old. On arriving at Wooster and selling his oats, 
he found teams so scarce that the army had no means of transportation, and, 
by the offer of high wages, Cross was induced to go with the army as far as 
Mansfield, and assist in transporting the forage and baggage of the camp. 
Here he was paid off, and started for home. On the road between Mansfield 
and Wooster he purchased seventeen head of oxen and steers, with which he 
arrived at the latter town on the last day of December, 1812. The following 
morning. New Year's, he and son started with their stock up the valley of the 
Killbuck, intending to reach the house of Joseph Harris, who had removed 
from Randolph Township to the site of Lodi, Medina County, in 1811. Soon 
after they left Wooster, there came on a terrible snowstorm, which lasted three 
days. Nothing further was seen or heard of Cross and his son, and the fol- 
lowing March, his family in Randolph Township becoming alarmed at their 
lengthened absence, sent another son in pursuit of them. Finding they had 
left Wooster on the 1st of January for the Harris settlement, the son followed 
their trail, and on reaching the settlement was informed that they had not 
been there, but that several stray cattle had been " taken up " during the win- 
ter for which no owner could be found. It was now evident that Cross and 
his son had perished in the storm which came on soon after they left Wooster, 
and the settlers of that section turned out en masse to try and find their remains. 
Nearly three miles southeast of the settlement they found the skull of Cross 
and some of his bones picked clean by the wolves, also his jack-knife and rem- 
nants of his clothing, but no trace of the son was ever discovered. The 
remains of two yokes of oxen, still in yoke, were also found near by. They 
had been chained to trees, and therefore could not get away with the balance 
of the cattle, but starved to death in their yokes. The bones of the unfortu- 
nate Cross were gathered up and buried in a field just south of the present 
town of Lodi, and his name was carved upon a beech tree which stood close 
to where he met his death. 



282 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

Soon after the return of peace, in 1815, Congress passed a law re-organiz- 
ing the militia, and making it obligatory for all males between the ages of 
eighteen and forty-five to perform military duty. The State was divided into 
military divisions, and certain points designated in each county where the dif- 
ferent militia companies should meet and receive instructions in the science of 
war. This was called " company muster," but once a year all of the compa- 
nies were required to meet, usually at the county seat, to attend the "general 
muster." The militia could not draw military equipments from the Govern- 
ment, but at those musters armed themselves with rifles, shotguns, broom-han- 
dles, sticks, or any other implement with which they could be put through the 
manual exercises. The law also provided that if any company would furnish 
their own uniforms, and otherwise comply with its provisions, the State would 
supply them with arms and munitions. Several companies of this class were 
organized from time to time in Portage County. On performing military duty 
for seven years in time of peace, the members of those independent companies 
were exempted from poll tax. Sham fights would sometimes be gotten up for 
the purpose of indulging the popular taste for excitement. About 1833 a cel- 
ebrated sham fight, with real Indians as opponents, took place in the southern 
part of the county, which is yet well remembered by many of the older inhab- 
itants. Those sham fights and training days were looked upon with much 
favor by all classes, as they were days of recreation, social joys and friendly 
greetings. 



CHAPTER VII. 

Internal Improvements— The Great Indian Trail— Pioneer Eoads of Por- 
tage County— Mail Facilities and i^etter Postage— Stage Routes and 
Drivers— Canals— Early Canal Legislation— The Ohio Canal Com- 
menced and Completed— Pennsylvania & Ohio Canal — The Efforts 
Made to Have it Built— Its Construction and Co3ipletion— First 
Boats Arrive at Ravenna— Subsequent Success of the Enterprise- 
Causes Which Led to its Abandonment— Railroads— Cleveland & 
Pittsburgh — Cleveland & Mahoning Yalley— Atlantic & Great 
Western— Cleveland, Youngstown & Pittsburgh— Connotton Valley — 
Pittsburgh, Cleveland & Toledo— The Proposed Clinton Air Line, and 
THE General Railroad Facilities of the County. 

AS a matter of necessity, almost the first thing to be done after the settler 
arrived was to cut out a road; in fact, it had often to be done before he 
reached his land, and in many instances days of weary work in underbrushing 
a path through the primitive forest intervened before he could move forward 
with his ox teams and rude wagon. This latter necessity was the origin of 
the first road in the county constructed by white men. When Benjamin Tap- 
pan, Jr., in the spring of 1799, as detailed in Chapter IV. of the county his- 
tory, arrived at a point on the Cuyahoga where now is the town of Boston, 
Summit County, he unloaded his goods, and placing them in charge of one of 
his hired men, proceeded, with the assistance of Benjamin Bigsby, to cut out 
a road to his father's land, now known as Ravenna. After working two or 
three days, Tappan struck the great Indian trail which crossed the Cuyahoga 
at Standing Rock, a short distance east of the present site of Kent. Follow- 
ing this trail, he soon reached the spot where he erected his first cabin, in the 




^^'^- 

%--^ 







~z^ 




HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 285 

southeast corner of the township, the Indian trail passing out of Ravenna 
exactly at the southeast corner. This great trail had been used from time 
immemorial by the aborigines, and was their main thoroughfare in the upper 
portion of Ohio. It extended from Fort Mcintosh, where Beaver, Penn. , now 
is, to Palmyra Township; thence passing through Edinburg, Ravenna and 
Franklin Townships, left Portage County, going northwestwardly to Sandusky. 
As early as 1786 Col. James Hillman, one of the pioneers of the West, who 
afterward lived to an advanced age in Youngstown, made six trips over this 
route, he being engaged in forwarding goods and provisions for a firm in Pitts- 
burgh. The road is said by old settlers to have been very compact and firm. 

About the same time that Benjamin Tappan cut his road, one was under- 
brushed from Atwater to Georgetown, Penn., for the purpose of obtainingpro- 
visions. Capt. Caleb Atwater, Jonathan Merrick, Peter Bunnell and Asa 
Hall did the work. The road was about forty miles long, and ran through 
Atwater and Deerfield Townships, it being the present east and west center 
road of those subdivisions. Ebenezer Sheldon also had cut a road from. the 
center of Aurora Township in 1799, that ran northwestwardly until it inter- 
sected a bridle path to Cleveland. In Nelson Township an east and west cen- 
ter road was cut out shortly after the Mills brothers settled in that section. 'In 
1802 the road running north from Ravenna through Shalersville and Mantua 
Townships, to Burton, Summit County, was laid out, but it was several years 
until it was completed. Also, in 1802 a road from Warren to Cleveland, which 
ran through the center of Hiram and Mantua Townships, was begun. In 1804- 
05 a road was cut from the center of Rootstown Township eastward to intersect 
the great road from Pittsburgh to Cleveland, which passed through the center 
of Edinburg Township. Not far from this time a road from Randolph Cen- 
ter, standing at the creek just west of the Center, was cut to a point on the 
line between Rootstown and Edinburg Townships, and from thence running 
northwardly. There was also a horse path to Canton, and a trail to Atwater. 
In 1805 Amzi Atwater siirveyed a road from his place in Mantua Township, 
along the south line of Hiram Township to Garrett's Mills in Nelson, and in 
1806 another was cut out running westward to Aurora. About the same time 
a road was cut through Windham Township to Braceville, running thence to 
Warren, and is now known as the State Road. In 1808 Alva Day, of Deerfield 
Township, and Charles Chittenden, and Cromwell and Walter Dickinson, of 
Randolph Township, cut out and bridged the road from old Portage to the 
Seventeenth Range, west of Medina. In 1809 Erastus Carter, of Ravenna, 
and Lemuel Punderson, of Newburg, laid out a road from Ravenna through 
Rootstown and Randolph Townships toward Canton, as far as the south line 
of the county, but it was not completed in Stark County till 1812. This road 
afterward became the great north and south route over which J. O. Granger 
ran his four-horse stage line. In 1817 David Mcintosh cut the center road 
through from Shalersville Township to Freedom, at which time the latter 
township was an unbroken wilderness, the first settler not arriving till the fol- 
lowing year. 

Mail facilities were extremely meager in the early days, and months would 
elapse before news could reach the settlers in their new homes. As late as the 
spring of 1801 Pittsburgh and Meadville, Penn., were the nearest postoffices to 
the Western Reserve, and in October of that year the first mail arrived at Warren, 
Ohio. Postage, even to a much later date, was high, and frequently a bushel of 
wheat was refused as payment on a single letter. A considerable number of let- 
ters were permitted to pass to the dead letter office, and in the advertised lists of 
letters at the Ravenna postoffice, published in the Cornier of 1825-26, can be 

16 



286 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY 

seen the names of many prominent citizens who at the time lived within a 
stone's throw of the office. John Diver, of Deerfield, was one of the earliest 
mail contractors and carriers on the Reserve. He had the contract for carry- 
ing the mail from New Lisbon to Mausfield, via Canton and Wooster, and was 
in the business over forty years. The Cleveland & Wellsville Turnpike was 
finished in 1827 and became a great thoroughfare. It entered the county in 
Streetsboro Township, passed diagonally across Ravenna, Edinburg and 
Deerfield and left the county in the southeast corner of the last named town- 
ship. Lines of stage routes were also opened east and west and north and 
south about the same time as the Cleveland & Wellsville Turnpike. 

The old stage coach was an institution of those early days, and was, of 
course, the only means of traveling long distances. Several lines of them 
passed through this county, and Jabez Gilbert, of Palmyra Township, was the 
most noted driver and mail contractor in all this region. In the Western Cour- 
ier of April 1, 1826, the editor says: " The line of stages between Pittsburgh 
and Cleveland have always been more or less irregular, but arrangements now 
are made by Mr. Gilbert, the enterprising proprietor of this end of the line, to 
prevent these irregularities. * * * jje jj^a been at the expense of a new 
stage, which, instead of two, is to be drawn by four horses. * * * ^he 
line is now completely established from Pittsburgh to Cleveland, and will 
run regularly twice a week." In the same month a line of stages is announced 
to run from Beaver to Cleveland twice a week. The route was through a por- 
tion of this county, and was much traveled, as it intersected at Stow, now in 
Summit County, a line that ran due south to the interior of the State. Aug- 
ust 5, 3 826, J. O. Granger advertises in the Courier that he will run regularly 
twice a week a line of stages from Fairport, at the mouth of Grand River, to 
Canton, through Painesville, Chardon and Ravenna, and the editor, speaking 
of this new evidence of improvement, says: "Few country towns possess equal 
facilities for the receipt and transmission of private and public documents; 
there being 728 arrivals and departures of mails within the year at and from 
Ravenna.'' In November the Pittsburgh and Cleveland line, run by Jabez 
Gilbert, John Stokes and Horace Daniels, was increased to three trips per 
week. In August of this year (1826) the new bridge across the Cuyahoga at 
Carthage (Kent) was completed; and early in the following year a line of 
stages was put on the road that passed over it, running from Ravenna to Mid- 
dleburg (now Akron). By this date roads had been opened in every part of 
the county, which through the passing years have been greatly improved, while 
many others were built from time to time as the wants of the country demanded. 

Canals. — The subject of canal building began to be eagerly discussed in 
this portion of the Union during the first quarter of the present century; but 
this system of navigation met with considerable opposition from sections of 
the State off the lines of the proposed routes. Canal construction was one of 
the first great measures to which Ohio gave attention, and as early as January, 
1817, a resolution on the subject of canal navigation between Lake Erie and 
the Ohio River was introduced into the Legislatiire. In 1822 a bill was passed 
authorizing a survey of four several routes, viz. : From Sandusky Bay; from 
the Maumee River; from the mouth of the Cuyahoga River, or the Black River, 
by the Muskingum; and from the mouth of the Grand River, via the Mahoning, 
to the Ohio.' At the next session of the Legislature the Canal Commissioners 
reported all of the routes practicable, but requested further time to ascertain 
the comparative advantages of each. At the session of 1823-24 the route 
through the upper part of the Muskingum, the Licking, and the lower part of 
the Scioto Valleys was recommended; but they also called attention to the 
advantages of the route by way of the Miami Valley. 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 287 

In the summer of 1824 two lines of canal were located, one from Cincin- 
nati to the Maumee River, and one from the mouth of the Scioto to Coshocton, 
and thence by one of three different routes tq Lake Erie. By an act passed 
February 4, 1825, the Canal Commissioners were authorized to begin work on 
these two canal routes. The western route received the name of the Miami 
Canal, while the eastern was called the Ohio Canal, and the line of the latter, 
from Coshocton northward, was established by way of the Tuscarawas River, 
to the mouth of the Cuyahoga, passing from south to north through what was 
then the western range of townships of Portage County. Bids for the several 
sections of the Ohio Canal were advertised for in May, 1825, ancj by the mid- 
dle of June several miles were under contract. It was thought that the break- 
ing of the first ground would take place at Portage Summit, then in Portage 
County, and that Gen. LaFayette, who at that time was on a visit to America, 
would attend, but the ceremony occurred July 4, 1825, at Licking Summit, 
on which date that celebrated Frenchman had promised to be in Boston. The 
invited guests, however, included many notables of the State and Nation. Gov. 
DeWitt Clinton, of New York, raised the first spadeful of earth, and ex-Gov. 
Jeremiah Morrow, of Ohio, the second. Hon. Thomas Ewing, of Lancaster, 
Ohio, was the orator on the occasion. An immense crowd had gathered and 
the scene was one of great excitement. The canal was completed from Cleve- 
land to Akron in 1827, and three years afterward navigation was opened via 
the Ohio Canal from Lake Erie to the Ohio River. 

The construction of the Pennsylvania & Ohio Canal from the Portage 
Summit to Pittsburgh, began to be mooted early in 1825, and during the sum- 
mer of that year a number of gentlemen along the line of the proposed route 
made explorations. On the 6th of September, 1825, a meeting of citizens of 
Trumbull and Portage Counties was held at the Court House in Ravenna to take 
into consideration the practicability and policy of constructing a canal from 
the movith of Beaver River, via the Mahoning through the two counties to the 
Portage Summit. Alva Day was Chairman, and Darius Lyman Secretary of 
the meeting, which appointed Frederick Wadsworth, Dillingham Clark, Joshua 
Woodward, Eliakim Crosby, William Wetmore, Jonathan Sloane, Simon 
Perkins, Elias Harmon, Amzi Atwater, and Calvin Pease a committee to col- 
lect information as to the most favorable route for the canal. The meeting 
then adjourned to September 14, when another was held and arrangements 
made for a survey of the proposed route. At the following session of the Ohio 
Legislature a bill was introduced to incorporate the Pennsylvania & Ohio 
Canal Company "for the sole purpose of making a navigable canal between 
some suitable point on the Ohio River, through the valley of the Mahoning 
River, to some suitable point on Lake Erie, or to some such point on the Ohio 
Canal." Under the articles of incorporation, this act, if passed, was not to 
become a law until the Pennsylvania Legislature would grant similiar rights 
and privileges to said company. The bill was read the third time in Febru- 
ary, 1826, but further action was postponed until the next session. 

The people along the line were now thoroughly aroused, and in February, 
1826, a canal meeting was held at Ravenna, of which William Stoddard was 
Chairman and Cyrus Prentiss Secretary. The meeting appointed Seth Day, 
Jonathan Sloane and William Coolman, Jr., a committee to obtain and com- 
municate information on the advisibility and practicability of building a canal 
from Portage Summit via the Mahoning and Big Beaver Valleys to Pittsburgh. 
A similar meeting was held at Pittsburgh, March 4, with the same object in 
view. On the 7th of March another meeting was convened at Ravenna, with 
Jonathan Sloane Chairman and Seth Day Secretary. Jonathan Sloane, Seth 



288 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

Day aod Frederick Wadsworth were appointed to represent Portage County 
in a canal convention of Ohio and Pennsylvania citizens at Beaver, Penn., 
which was held March 10. A canal meeting was also held at Warren, Ohio, 
on the 2lBt of March, 1826; and on the 3d and 4th of May following a very 
large convention assembled at Newcastle, Penn. , in which twenty delegates 
from Allegheny, Mercer, Butler and Beaver Counties, Penn., and Trumbull 
and Portage Counties, Ohio, were in attendance. Those from Portage were 
Seth Day, Frederick Wadsworth and Jonathan Sloane. This convention 
adjourned to meet at Warren, Ohio, October 25, 1826, on which date a bill 
for the incorporation of the Pennsylvania & Ohio Canal was prepared. The 
next day the bill was approved and adopted, Jonathan Sloane and Frederick 
Wadsworth, of Portage County, being two of the incorporators named in the 
instrument. This bill was passed by the Legislature January 10, 1827, to 
take effect whenever the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania granted a similar 
charter. The latter State passed an act of incorporation in April, 1827, and 
the legal power for the construction of this much cherished project was at 
last obtained. Jonathan Sloane, then representing the Portage district in the 
Ohio Senate, was the author of the bill, and also of a resolution passed during 
the same session authorizing the State Board of Canal Commissioners to have 
the proposed route surveyed and estimates made by a competent engineer the 
same season, and report to the next session of the General Assembly. Several 
surveys of the route were made but nothing positively decided at that time. 
The Courier in its issue of July 3, 1829, announces the location of the Penn- 
sylvania & Ohio Canal through llavenna, and says " the information was 
greeted by the inhabitants of this village by the discharge of a national salute, 
fired near the located route south of the village, accompanied by hearty cheers." 
The survey was under the charge of Capt. Dumest, an accomplished engineer 
of the United States Army. 

Owinw to the uncertainty as to the point of intersection with the Penn- 
sylvania Canal, and witnessing the steady progress that Pennsylvania was 
making in extending her improvements towards the Ohio boundary, the Penn- 
sylvania & Ohio Canal Company deemed it advisable to postpone the opening 
of books for the subscription of stock. The enterjDrise, therefore, lay dor- 
mant for several years, but in 1833 meetings began to be held along the sur- 
veyed route, with the object of reviving the scheme. The friends of the 
project went vigorously to work, and February 20, 1835, the charter, passed 
in 1827, was renewed and amended, and ten years, from December 31, 1835, 
given the company to complete the canal. On the 13th of April, 1835, the 
Pennsylvania Legislature also passed a bill renewing the old charter. Sub- 
scription books for stock were opened at Philadelphia, April 27, 1835, and in 
less than one hour $780,000, the amount of stock to which that city was limited, 
was all taken. The whole amount was placed at 11,000,000, and the remain- 
ing $220,000, allotted to Portage and Trumbull Counties, Ohio, and western 
Pennsylvania, was all taken before the close of May. The stock-holders met 
at Newcastle, Penn., May 21, 1835, and elected the following Board of Direct- 
ors: Abner Laycock, William Boyd, William Robinson, Joseph T. Boyd, 
William Ray en, Leicester King and Jonathan Sloane; Abner Laycock, 
President; Zalmon Fitch, Treasurer; Leicester King, Secretary. Messrs. 
Sloane, Lacock and Rayen were appointed an Executive Committee to let 
contracts and transact and superintend any other business connected with 
the construction of the canal. 

Col. Sebried Dodge and James D. Harris were appointed Chief Engineers 
of Construction, and with their corps began surveying on the Ravenna Sum- 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 289 

mit, east of the village of Ravenna, June 8, 1835. By the middle of August 
the survey was completed, and on the 17th and 18th of that month contracts 
were let for the portion of the canal west of Ravenna, but the western ter- 
minus being afterward changed to run by Cuyahoga Falls, the contracts for 
the whole western division, extending from the east line of Portage (bounty 
to Akron, were re-let November 16, 1835. The several secfiious of the eastern 
division of the canal, extending fi-om the east line of Portage County to near 
Newcastle, Penn. , were put under contract August 10, September 21, and 
November 11, 1835. The whole length of the canal from its intersection with 
the Pennsylvania Canal, about two miles below Newcastle, Penn., to its inter- 
section with the Ohio Canal, at Akron, Ohio, was eighty- two miles. " Feeders " 
from the small lakes in the western section of Portage County were also built 
at the same time. The total estimated cost of the canal at that time was 
about $913,000. The section east of Warren, accoi'ding to the terms of the 
contracts, was to be completed on or before September 1, 1836, and that 
between Warren and Akron via Ravenna and Franklin Mills (Kent), one year 
later. 

The work of construction was begun at once and pushed forward vigor- 
ously. Hundreds of laborers found employment at good wages, but finally 
on account of the stock- holders neglecting to pay their subscriptions according 
to contract, the work was greatly retarded, and the canal was not finished at 
the dates specified. Though the finances were very low, work was however 
continued through the winter of 1836-37. In May, 1837, Gov. Vance, 
in the name and on behalf of the State of Ohio, subscribed $450,000 to the 
stock of the canal, and as soon as the money could be raised, paid the first 
installment of $145,000 to the Treasurer of the company. For a time, in 
the winter of 1837-38, the work lagged, but throughout the balance of the 
latter year the canal bed was rapidly opened through this county. In June, 
1839, the Pennsylvania Legislature subscribed and paid $50,000 to the capital 
stock, which it was thought would complete the canal; and by April 1, 1840, 
it was expected to be finished and opened for business. These expectations 
were realized, for the writer found in a report of the Harrison Convention, 
held at Ravenna, April 3, 1840, the proceedings of which were published in 
the next issue of the Ohio Stai\ the following item relative to the canal: 

From Trumbull County came first two crowded canal boats, with each a band of 
music — the "Mohawk," of Beaver, and the "Tippecanoe," of Warren — the first that ever 
passed through the Pennsylvania & Ohio Canal now just completed. 

On the 19th of April, 1840, the "Ohio City" arrived at Ravenna, on her 
way to Pittsburgh, freighted with ashes, fish, etc. ; and on the following day the 
"Huron*' arrived from Pittsburgh with merchandise, the first brought to 
Ravenna by canal. Boats were now passing Ravenna daily, to and fro, along 
the canal, and on the 4th of August, 1840, a celebration was held all along 
the line. Gov. David R. Porter, of Pennsylvania, and other distinguished citi- 
zens being passengers on one of the excursion packets which made the trip. 
Meetings were held at nearly every town on the route of the canal, all expres- 
sive of a deep satisfaction over the successful completion and operation of the 
great enterprise. 

For twelve years nothing occurred to mar the success of the canal, and 
throughout the summer of 1851 a line of packets connected at Ravenna with 
the Cleveland & Pittsburgh Railroad, which was completed to Ravenna early 
in that year. But in March, 1852, the railroad was finished to Wellsville, on 
the Ohio River, and therefore a superior mode of travel and shipment insti- 
tuted between northern and southei-n Ohio and Pennsylvania. It, however, 



290 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

did a coinpnratively good business for three or four years longer, or until the 
completion of the Cleveland & Mahoning Valley Railroad, when its trafiSc 
gradually dwindled away, and it became an unprofitable institution. In Jan- 
uary, 1863, the State Board of Public Works sold the stock owned by the State 
in the canal, being the one-third of the whole amount, to the Cleveland & 
Mahoning Valley Railroad Company, for the sum of $30,000, by which pur- 
chase this road obtained a controlling interest in the canal, and thus sounded 
its death knell. In December, 1863, the warehouse at Ravenna was sold, and 
though an occasional boat floated lazily along its sluggish waters, its day of 
usefulness and prosperity had passed away, and it was gradually abandoned. 
Its bed, which runs through Paris, Charlestown, Ravenna and Franklin Town- 
ships, Portage County, is now occupied by the Pittsburgh, Cleveland & Toledo 
Railroad, but nothing remains to be seen by the casual observer, save here and 
there portions of its old channel. 

Railroads. — Up to the close of 1850, 150 charters for the construction of 
railroads had been gi-anted by the General Assembly of Ohio, and the work 
was fairly under way for the net-work of roads now covering the State. The 
year 1851 introduced a new era and an entire revolution on the subject of rail- 
road legislation. During the session of the General Assembly this year, 
twenty-one railroad charters were granted, and over forty amendments were 
made to those already in existence. The charters and amendments all con- 
tained power and authority to borrow money, and thirty-six of the amendments 
authorized counties, cities, towns or townships to subscribe stock. The door 
was thrown as wide open as legislation could go to enable railroad companies 
to borrow money and procure stock subscription. 

The Cleveland & Pittsburgh Railroad Company was the first corporation to 
obtain a charter from which Portage County subsequently reaped a benefit. It 
was granted under a special act passed March 14, 1836, vesting that company 
with the right to construct a railroad from Cleveland to some point on the 
State line between Ohio and Pennsylvania, or on the Ohio River, in the direc- 
tion of Pittsburgh. But little or nothing was done under the rights thus 
granted, and an act of revival and amendment was passed March 11, 1845. 
By the acts of February 16, 1849, March 9, 1850, and February 19, 1851, cer- 
tain branching privileges were granted, under which the roads from Bayard to 
New Philadelphia, and from Hudson southwest into Wayne County were sub- 
sequently built. On the 8th of April, 1850, an act was passed by the Pennsyl- 
vania Legislature authorizing the company to extend its railroad from the 
eastern line of Ohio up the valley of the Ohio River to a point at or near the 
mouth of the Big Beaver. The same Commonwealth also passed an act April 
18, 1853, adopting the two first named acts of this State, and making the com- 
pany a corporation of Pennsylvania with all the rights and powers granted by 
the Ohio acts. Under those various acts the Cleveland & Pittsburgh Railroad 
Company constructed 199f miles of railroad (not including the branch from 
Hudson, which was built by a separate company), extending from Cleveland to 
Wellsville, and thence down the Ohio River to Bellair, and from Wellsville up 
the Ohio to Rochester, and the Tuscarawas Branch from Bayard to New Phil- 
adelphia. 

By the fall of 1850 much grading had been done on the main line, and the 
company began laying the track between Cleveland and Ravenna. On the 
evening of March 6, 1851, the last rail connecting these points was laid and 
the last spike driven about one mile southeast of Hudson, and Monday morn- 
ing, March 10, the first passenger train left Ravenna for Cleveland, return- 
ing the same evening. The first round trip from Cleveland was made on the 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 291 

following Thursday, March 13, 1851, when the locomotive "Ravenna," draw- 
ing one car filled with Directors of the road, came down from the city to exam- 
ine the progress of the work. On the 18th of March regular daily trains began 
running, connecting at Ravenna with a packet on the Ohio & Pennsylvania 
Canal, which ran to Beaver, Penn., where the traveler took the steamer for 
Pittsburgh. The trip was made in twenty-six hours, and the fare from Cleve- 
land to Pittsburgh was $3.50 including meals and bed on the boat. At that 
time a daily train (except Sundays) left Cleveland at 8:30 A. M. , arrived at 
Ravenna at 10:30 A. M., and left the latter point for Cleveland at 2:30 P. M. 
But after the 1st of April, 1851, an accommodation left Ravenna every morn- 
ing (excepting Sunday) for Cleveland, and returned in the evening, so that, at 
that early day, Ravenna enjoyed traveling facilities that many country towns 
do not even yet possess. 

The first week the road averaged 175 passengers daily, besides carrying 
considerable freight, and from that time forward its business increased rapidly. 
A telegraph ofiice was opened in Ravenna, in connection with the road, 
April 22, 1851, which was the first established in the village. The work on 
the road south of Ravenna was pushed along vigorously, and by May 28, 1851, 
about eight miles of track were laid between Ravenna and Atwater. The track 
was being put down at the rate of half a mile a day, and before the close of 
June a passenger car on the construction train was making daily trips to 
Atwater, Lima and Alliance, and many availed themselves of the accommoda- 
tion thus afforded. The cars began running to Hanover, about seventy five 
miles southeast of Cleveland, November 5, 1851, there connecting with the 
stage for Wellsville on the Ohio River, and thence to Pittsburgh by a special 
line of steamers. Leaving Cleveland at 8:45 A. M., the traveler arrived at 
Pittsburgh at 10 P. M. the same day. The last rail completing the road to 
Wellsville was laid on Saturday, February 14, 1852, and the same evening the 
cars came through from Wellsville to Ravenna. But the first passenger train 
came over the line from Wellsville to Cleveland February 23, and February 
26 regular trains began running between Lake Erie and the Ohio River. On 
Thursday, March 4, 1852, a grand celebration was held at Wellsville over the 
completion of the road, and on the following day at Wheeling, West Va. The 
line was subsequently built to Bellaire, Ohio, and Rochester, Penn. At the lat- 
ter point the Cleveland & Pittsburgh connects with the Pittsburgh. Fort Wayne 
& Chicago Railroad, which track it uses from Rochester to Pittsburgh, under 
a twenty- five-year lease entered into between the two companies December 15, 
1862, which went into effect April 1, 1863. On the 25th of October, 1871, 
the Cleveland & Pittsburgh Railroad Company leased its road to the Pennsyl- 
vania Railroad Company for the term of 999 years from December 1, 1871. 
The Cleveland & Pittsburgh Railroad enters Portage County in the southwest 
corner of Streetsboro Township, and thence passing in a southeast direction 
across Franklin, Ravenna, Rootstown, Edinburg and Atwater Townships, 
leaves the county on Lot 51 of the last mentioned subdivision. It is one of 
the most prosperous roads in the country, and pays a large annual dividend to 
its stock-holders. 

The Cleveland & Mahoning Valley Railroad Company was chartered by a 
special act passed February 22, 1848, with authority to construct a railroad 
from Cleveland to some point in or near Warren, Ohio, with the right of con- 
tinuing the road to the east line of the State. The road was built under this 
charter from Cleveland to Youngstown, and a branch from Youngstown to the 
State line. It enters Portage County near the northwest corner of Aurora 
Township, and passes through Aurora, Mantua, Hiram, Garrettsville, Nelson 



292 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

and Windham Townships, striking the Trumbull County line near the north- 
east corner of Windham. Most of the grading was done and the track partially 
laid through this county in the fall of 1855. The Portage County Democrat 
of November 7, 1855, says that the rails were then laid between Warren and 
Mantua Station, and construction trains running between those points. In 
the spring of 1856 the road was completed to Cleveland, and July 4 of that 
year regular trains began running from Cleveland to Warren. The road east 
of Warren was, after that date, rapidly pushed to completion. On the 7th of 
October, 1863, the company leased the road to the Atlantic & Great Western 
Railroad Company for the term of ninety-nine years, and it has since been 
operated as a branch of that line. 

The Atlantic & Great Western Railroad is one of the principal trunk lines 
between the East and the West. It had its inception in three different charters 
granted in New York, Pennsylvania and Ohio, that granted by the last-men- 
tioned State being the one in which Portage County is more directly interested. 
On the 10th of March, 1851, the Ohio Legislature granted a charter to the 
Franklin & Warren Railroad Company, for the construction of a railroad from 
Franklin Mills (Kent), Portage County, to Warren, Trumbull County, and 
thence to the easti line of the State, with power to continue the road westward 
or southwestward from Franklin Mills to connect with any other railroad in 
Ohio. On the 21st of May, 1851, the company was organized by the follow- 
ing incorporators: Marvin Kent, Zenas Kent, L. V. Bierce, Thomas Earl, O. 
L. Drake, Cyrus Prentiss, Simon Perkins, H. B. Spelman, Charles Smith, 
Jacob Perkins, Rufus P. Ranney, A. V. Horr, Daniel Upson, Fred Kinsman 
and C. G. Sutliff. Marvin Kent, the leading spirit of the enterprise, was 
elected President of the company July 8, 1851, and served five years continu- 
ously. He was again elected President in July, 1859, and re-elected annually 
five times, serving in that capacity until the fall of 1864, when he resigned the 
office. 

Another well-known citizen of the county, who from long connection with 
the road deserves a passing notice, is Enos P. Bramerd, Esq. He became 
Treasurer of the company in January, 1855, and for nine successive jears was 
annually re-elected to the same position, which he resigned December 2, 1864, 
He was, however, retained as Assistant Treasurer, and July 11, 1865, again 
elected Treasurer, but lost the office upon the consolidation of the three com- 
panies the following August. 

In the meantime, dui'ing the summer of 1852, some gentlemen in Ohio and 
Pennsylvania had proposed the project of continuing the broad gauge of the 
Ohio & Mississippi Railroad through Ohio, northwestern Pennsylvania and 
southwestern New York. This grand plan for a great broad gauge from St. 
Louis to New York was subsequently submitted to the Directors of the three 
local companies of Ohio, Pennsylvania and New York (the two last-mentioned 
having some years previously, under different titles, obtained charters covering 
the construction of roads in the same general direction), and favorable action 
taken thereon. By a decree of the Court of Common Pleas of Portage 
County, dated October 17, 1854, the name of the company in Ohio was changed 
to the Atlantic & Great Western Railroad Company. The Pennsylvania Com- 
pany also changed its corporate name, by an act of the Legislature passed 
April 15, 1858, to the Atlantic & Great Western Railroad Company of Penn- 
sylvania. The Atlantic & Great Western Railroad Company of New York 
was incorporated the same year, and it was the intention to build and operate 
these three roads as one line, so far as such could be done by contracts with 
each other. 



# 





IL>^ 



V^' 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 295 

On the 20th of April, 1860, the engineers commenced work at Jamestown, 
N. Y., and on the 27th the contractors began grading. On the 8th of May, 
1860, the first rail was laid, and the first spike driven. In May, 1861, the 
track was laid to Corry, Penn. Work was soon afterward suspended and it 
was not until October 22, 1862, that the road was opened to Meadville, Penn. 
During this time the work on the Ohio division was progressing very slowly, 
but in the spring of 1862 it was energetically commenced, and vigorously 
pushed throughout the summer. The first week in November, 1862, two loco- 
motives were placed upon the track at Ravenna to aid in the work, and by the 
12th of that month about seven miles of track were laid east of that town. 
The telegraph office of the Atlantic & Great Western Railroad was opened in 
Ravenna September 20, 1862, and the first dispatch sent over the wires to 
Corry, Penn., on that date. By December 10, 1862, the track between 
Ravenna and Warren was completed, and the construction trains freely run- 
ning from the latter town to a point four miles west of Ravenna; and January 
4, 1863, the last rail, connecting Warren and Meadville, was laid in place. 

On the 15th of January, 1863, thirteen freight cars loaded with rails 
arrived at Ravenna from New York over the new line, being the first cars 
direct from the eastern metropolis without change. On the evening of Febru- 
ary 10, 1863, the first accomodation train reached Ravenna from Meadville. 
The passengers were principally officers of the road. They were met at the 
depot (then a temporary frame building), by a number of leading citizens, 
taken in carriages to the Collins House and handsomely entertained, returning 
to Meadville the following morning. The first freight was sent over this road 
from Ravenna to New Y''ork February 11, 1863, and consisted of a car load of 
flour fi'om one of the mills in the town. Two days afterward ten barrels of 
sugar were received at Ravenna from New York, via the Atlantic & Great 
Western. A regular accommodation train began running east from Ravenna 
February 16, 1863. It made three trips a week each way, and was only intended 
as a temporary arrangement to accommodate the people along the line until 
the further completion of the road. Though the rails were laid and an accom- 
modation running in connection with the construction train, as far west as 
Kent, in February, 1863, the first through passenger train did not reach that 
town until Saturday, March 7, 1863. The passengers consisted of President 
Marvin Kent, Chief Engineer Thomas W. Kennard and other officials of the 
road, who made the trip from New York to Kent without change. Up to 
March 80, 1863, there were only three trains weekly each way, but on that 
date daily trains began running. Business grew rapidly, and by the 18th of 
May the company found it necessary to put on two daily passenger trains each 
way to accommodate the traveling public. On the 26th of May, 1863, the line 
was completed to Akron, December 27th to Gallon, and in June, 1864, to Day- 
ton, there taking the broad gauge track on the Cincinnati, Hamilton & Dayton 
Railroad to Cincinnati, which had been prepared for a connection to the new 
line. In August of the same year a train was run from New York to St. 
Louis, 1,200 miles of broad gauge, in forty-seven hours. 

Under an agreement of August 19, 1865, the three companies of Ohio 
Pennsylvania and New York were consolidated as the Atlantic & Great Western 
Railway Company. On the 1st of April, 1867, the road went into the hands 
of a receiver, and December 7, 1868, it was leased to the Erie Railway 
Company for the term of twelve years, but was only operated by them four 
months, when at the suits of creditors the courts of New York, Pennsylvania 
and Ohio again placed the road in the hands of receivers. The Erie Railway 
Company leased the road in February, 1870, but in July, 1871, it was sold, 



296 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

the purchasers re-organizing as the A-tlantic & Great Western Railroad Com- 
pany. The road again went into the hands of a receiver December 10, 1874, 
and January 6, 1880, was sold and its name changed to the New York, Penn- 
sylvania & Ohio Raih-oad. The track has been changed to the standard gauge 
of the country. In March, 1883, it was leased for ninety-nine years to the New 
York, Lake Erie & Western Railroad Company, who still operate it. It strikes 
the east line of Portage County in Lot 50, Windham Township, and taking a 
general southwest course through Windham, Freedom, Charlestown, Ravenna 
and Franklin, leaves the county at the northwest corner of Brimfield Township. 
The machine shops at Kent, which employ a large number of men, were 
located at that point by the Board of Directors April 5, 1854, though they were 
not built for many years afterward. 

The Cleveland, Youngstown & Pittsburgh Railroad, which passes up the 
eastern side of Deerfield and Palmyra Townships and across the southeast 
corner of Paris, sprung from the Lake Erie, Alliance & Wheeling Railroad, 
chartered February 19, 1874, to run from Fairport, on Lake Erie, to Wheeling, 
W. Va. Early in 1876 the work of construction was begun, and the road was 
completed the same year from Alliance, Stark County, through Portage, to 
Newton Falls, in Trumbull County, and the following summer to Braceville. 
On the 9th of May, 1878, the road was sold, and on the 31st the purchasers 
reorganized as the Alliance & Lake Erie Railroad Company, and in the fall 
of 1879 completed the road to Phalanx. It was originally a narrow gauge, 
but July 14, 1882, a consolidation was effected with some other companies, 
under the title of the Cleveland, Youngstown & Pittsburgh, and the road 
changed to a standard gauge. 

The Connotton Valley Railway Company was formed by a consolidation of 
the Connotton Valley Railroad Company and the Connotton Northern Railway 
Company. The Youngstown & Connotton Valley Railroad Company was 
incorporated August 29, 1877, to construct a line of road from Bowerstown to 
Youngstown. In 1878 this company purchased the Ohio & Toledo Railroad, 
which consisted of a finished track from Dell Roy to Minerva, and in the fall 
of 1879 the route and terminus of the Youngstown & Connotton Valley was 
changed, making Canton instead of Youngstown the northern terminus. By 
a decree of the Court of Common Pleas, issued November 20, 1879, the name 
of the corporation was changed to the Connotton Valley Railroad Company. 
The Connotton Northern Railway Company was chartei-ed March 23, 1879, lo 
build a road from Canton to Fairport on Lake Erie, but the northern terminus 
was afterward changed to Cleveland. When the Connotton Valley was built 
to Canton, and the Connotton Northern in course of construction, the two 
companies saw that their interests would be better conserved by uniting, and 
on the 25th of October, 1880, the consolidation was effected as the Connotton 
Valley Railway Company. The road is a narrow gauge, which entering Port- 
age County on the southern line of Suffield Township, takes a general northerly 
course through Suffield, Brimfield, Franklin and Streetsboro Townships, and 
crosses into Summit County on Lot 7, in the southwest corner of Aurora 
Township. It was completed and trains running as far north as Mogadore by 
the close of June, 1881, and during the same year was finished and opened 
through to Cleveland. 

The Pittsburgh, Cleveland & Toledo Railroad Company was incorporated 
April 28, 1882, to construct a road from Newcastle Junction, in Lawrence 
County, Penn. , to Akron, Ohio. Work was begun at once and pushed vigor- 
ously throughout 1882 and 1883, the track being laid through Portage County 
in the summer of the latter year. The road was opened for business February 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 297 

1, 1884, but regular trains did not begin running until the 4th of March fol- 
lowing. It follows the abandoned bed of the Pennsylvania & Ohio Canal, 
through Paris, Charlestown, Ravenna and Franklin Townships, and has proven 
quite an acquisition to the railroad facilities of the country through which it 



The foregoing are the only completed railroads which touch Portage County 
territory, but from 1853 to 1856 considerable grading was done" on a proposed 
road called the Clinton Air Line. It entered the State at Kinsman on the 
Pennsylvania line, and passed southwest through Trumbull, Geauga, Portage, 
and Summit Counties, thence onward in the same general direction. It struck 
the northern boundary of Hiram Township, in Lot 4, and passed southwest 
through Hiram, Mantua and Aurora Townships to Hudson, Summit County, 
crossing the Cleveland & Mahoning Valley Railroad near the boundary line 
between Mantua and Aurora. Some efforts have recently been made to revive 
the project, but so far nothing definite has been effected, and it is very doubt- 
ful if the road will ever be built. Portage County, however, is well supplied 
with railroads, few counties in the State being able to point to six roads pass- 
ing through their territory. Randolph and Shalersville are the only town- 
ships in the county not touched by a railroad, yet railroad communications are 
so close at hand that the inhabitants of those two townships probably derive 
as much real benefit from the roads as if they passed within sight of their 
doors. 



CHAPTER VIII. 

Education in Ohio— Lands Granted fok Educational Purposes— Commis- 
sioners OF Schools and School Lands in 1822— The School Lands Sold 
AND A School Fund Established— Pioneer Schools, Schoolhouses, 
Teachers and Books in Portage County— Hoav Teachers were Em- 
ployed and Paid— An Amusing Agreement— Growth of Education- 
Government AND Progress of Schools Prior to 1851— Schools for Col- 
ored Youth Established— Re-organization of Schools under the laws 
of 1853— Present Government of Schools. 

THE most casual observer cannot but have noticed, notwithstanding the 
privation and discomforts attending the lives of the early settlers, the zeal 
they manifested in education, and that, as soon as a sufiicient number of pupils 
could be collected and a teacher secured, a house was erected for the purpose. 
The period just preceding the Revolution was characterized by its number of 
literary men, and the interest they gave to polite learning; and the patriots 
who were conspicuous in that sti'Uggle for human liberty were men not only 
of ability, but of no ordinary culture. We can readily understand that the 
influence of their example had its weight in molding public sentiment in other 
respects besides that of zeal for the patriot cause. To this may be added that, 
for the most part, the early pioneers were men of character, who endured the 
dangers and trials of a new country, not solely for their own sakes, but for 
their children, and with a faith in what the future would bring forth, clearly 
saw the power and value of education. Then we find, from the beginning, 
this object kept steadily in view, and provision made for its successful prose- 
cution; and the express declaration of the fundamental law of the State 
enjoins that " the principal of all funds arising "from the sale or other distri- 



298 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

bution of lands or other property, granted or intrusted to the State for educa- 
tional purposes, shall forever be pi'eserved inviolate and undiminished, and 
the income arising therefrom shall be faithfully applied to the specific objects 
of the original grants or appropriations, and the General Assembly shall make 
such provisions by taxation or otherwise as, from the income arising from the 
school trust fund, shall secure a thorough and efficient system of common 
schools throughout the State." 

The act of Congress providing for the admission of Ohio into the Union 
offered certain educational propositions to the people. These were, first, that 
Section 16 in each township, or, in lieu thereof, other contiguous or equiva- 
lent lands, should be granted for the use of schools; second, that thirty-eight 
sections of land, where salt springs had been found, should be granted to the 
State, never to be sold, or leased for a longer term than ten years; and third, 
that one-twentieth of the proceeds from the sale of the public lands in the 
State should be applied toward the construction of roads from the Atlantic 
to and through Ohio. Those propositions were offered on the condition that 
the public lands sold by the United States after the 30th of June, 1802, should 
be exempt from State taxation for five years after sale. The ordinance of 
1787 had already provided for the appropriation of Section 16 to the support 
of schools in every township sold by the United States. This, therefore, 
could not, in 1802, be properly made the subject of a new bargain between the 
United States and Ohio; and by many it was thought that the salt reserva- 
tions and one-twentieth of the proceeds of the sale of public lands were inad- 
equate equivalent for the proposed surrender of a right to tax for five years. 
The convention, however, accepted the propositions of Congress, on their 
being so modified and enlarged as to vest in the State, for the use of schools, 
Section 16 in each township sold by the United States, and three other tracts 
of land, equal in quantity respectively to one thirty-sixth of the Virginia Mil- 
itary Eeservation, of the United States Military Tract and of the Connecticut 
Western Keserve, and to give 3 per cent of the proceeds of the public lands 
sold within the State to the construction of roads in Ohio, under the direction 
of the Legislature. Congress agreed to the proposed modifications, and thus 
was established the basis of the common-school fund of Ohio. 

We have seen in the foregoing how Congress, by a compact with the peo- 
ple, gave them one thirty-sixth part of all of the lands northwest of the Ohio 
River for school purposes. The lands for this purpose set apart were, how- 
ever, often appropriated by squatters, and through unwise, careless and some- 
times corrupt legislation, these squatters were vested with proprietorship. 
Caleb Atwater, in his history of Ohio, in speaking on this subject says: 
" Members of the Legislature not unfrequently got acts passed and leases 
granted, either to themselves, their relatives or to their partisans. One Sena- 
tor contrived to get, by such acts, seven entire sections of land into either his 
own or his children's possession." From 1803 to 1820 the General Assembly 
spent a considerable portion of every session in passing acts relating to these 
lands, without advancing the cause of education to any degree. 

In 1821 the House of Kepresentatives appointed five of its members, viz., 
Caleb Atwater, Loyd Talbot, James Shields, Roswell Mills and Josiah Barber, 
a Committee on Schools and School Lands. This committee subsequently 
made a report, rehearsing the wrong management of the school land trust on 
behalf of the State, warmly advocated the establishment of a system of educa- 
tion and the adoption of measures which would secure for the people the 
rights which Congress intended they should possess. In compliance with the 
recommendation of the committee, the Governor of the State, in May, 1822, 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 299 

having been authorized by the Legislature, appointed seven Commissioners of 
Schools and School Lands, viz. : Caleb Atwater, Rev. John Collins, Rev. 
James Hoge, N. Guilford, Ephraim Cutler, Josiah Barber and James M. Bell. 
The reason why seven persons were appointed was because there were seven 
different sorts of school lands in the State, viz. : Section 16 in every township 
of the Congress lands, the United States Military lands, the Virginia Military 
lands, Symmes' Purchase, the Ohio Company's Purchase, tte Refugee lands 
and the Connecticut Western Reserve. This commission of seven persons was 
reduced by various causes to one of three, Messrs. Atwater, Collins and Hoge, 
who performed the arduous duties incumbent upon them with but little remu- 
neration and (at the time) but few thanks. 

The Legislature of 1822-28 broke up without having taken any definite 
action upon the report presented by the commission, but during the summer 
and autvimn of 182-4 the subject of the sale of the school lands was warmly 
agitated, and the friends of the measure triumphed over the opposition so far 
as to elect large majorities to both branches of the General Assembly in favor 
of its being made a law. The quantity of land set apart was ascertained in 
1825 to be a little more than half a million acres, and was valued at less than 
$1,000,000. The school lands were finally sold and the proceeds taken charge 
of by the State, the interest accruing from the moneys derived from the sale 
of the different classes of lands to be annually distributed among the counties 
in the respective land districts, according to the school enumeration of each 
county. It might be well to state here that the school age at this time was 
fi'om four to sixteen, which was, however, changed whenever the General 
Assembly considered such a change necessary or judicious. From the time 
the school lands were sold up to the present, each county in the State has 
received annually its quota of the interest obtained from this school fund. 
Nearly one-half of the counties of Ohio pay more money into the common 
school fund of the State than they receive back again, the surplus thus raised 
going to poor or sparsely settled counties. This has been the case in Portage 
County for many years. In 1875 she paid $16,412.86 and received $12,537.60, 
or $3,875.26 less than she paid in. In 1880 she paid $15,785.11, and received 
$11,662.50, or $4,122.61 less than paid into the State fund. These two years 
will serve to illustrate what this county has been doing for the cause of educa- 
tion, for besides educating her own youth she has and is paying annually for 
the instruction of the school youth in other counties of the State. 

In the early development of Portage County a great variety of influences 
were felt in the way of general education. The settlements were and for 
years continued to be sparse. The people, as the pioneers of all new counties 
are, were poor, and lacked the means of remunerating teachers. Their poverty 
compelled all who were able to labor, and the work of the females was as 
important and toilsome as that of the men. Added to these, both teachers 
and books were scarce. This condition of things continued perhaps for more 
than a quarter of a century. Taking these facts into consideration, it is sur- 
prising that they had any schools whatever. 

The interest awakened in literature and science immediately after the Rev- 
olution followed the pioneers to their Western homes; but to make their 
efforts productive of useful results time became absolutely necessary. Just 
as soon as the settlements were prepared for the experiment, schools were 
opened; but at every step it was the acquisition of knowledge under difficul- 
ties. Everything connected with them was as simple and primitive as were 
their dwellings, food and clothing. Houses were built in the various neigh- 
borhoods as occasion made necessary, not by subscription in money, but by 



300 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

labor. Ou a given day the neighbors assembled at some place previously- 
agreed upon, and the work was done. Timber was abundant; they were skilled 
in the use of the ax, and having cut logs of the required length, the walls 
were soon raised. The roof was made of clapboards, kept in place by heavy 
poles reaching the length of the building. The door was of clapboards and 
creaked on wooden hinges; the latch of wood and raised by a string. The 
floor was "puncheon," or trees split in the middle, tolerably true, the edge and 
face being dressed with the ax. The crevices between the logs forming the 
walls were filled with " chinks," or split sticks of wood, and daubed with mud. 
The tire-place was equally rude, but of ample dimensions, built on the out- 
side of the house, usually of stone to the throat of the flue, and the remain- 
der of the chimney of split sticks of wood, daubed with puddled clay within 
and without. Light was admitted through the door and by means of an 
opening made by cutting out one of the logs, reaching almost the entire width 
of the building. This opening was high enough from the floor to prevent the 
boys from looking out, and in winter was covered with paper saturated with 
grease, to keep out the cold, as well as to admit light. 

In the rural districts school " kept " only in winter. The furniture corre- 
sponded with the simplicity of the house. At a proper distance below the 
windows auger holes were bored in a slanting direction in one of the logs, and 
in these strong wooden pins were driven, and on the pins a huge slab or 
puncheon was placed, which served as a writing desk for the whole school. 
For seats, they used the puncheon, or more commonly the body of a smooth, 
straight tree, cut ten to twelve feet in length, and raised to a height of twelve 
to fifteen inches by means of pins securely inserted. It has been said that 
not infrequently the pins were of unequal length, and the bench predisposed to 
" wabble. " Many of the pioneer teachers were natives of Ireland, who had 
fled from the oppression of the English Government, prior to and succeeding 
the struggle for Irish independenee, in 1798, and here in this land of freedom 
were putting to good use that education obtained in their native isle. Dr. 
Johnson's notion that most boys I'equired learning to be thrashed into them 
was practically carried out in the pioneer schoolhouse. The pupils sat with 
their faces toward the wall, around the room, while the teacher occupied the 
middle space to superintend each pupil separately. In some rooms a separate 
bench was furnished for those too young to write. Classes, when reciting, 
sat on a bench provided for this purpose. 

The books were as primitive as the surroundings. The New Testament 
was a common reading book; the "English Reader" was occasionally found, 
and sometimes the " Columbian Orator." No one book was common in all the 
families. The reading class recited paragraphs alternately, and the book in 
use was made common property, passing from hand to hand during recitation. 
It was not unusual for the teacher to assist a pupil in one of his " sums," dis- 
cipline a refractory scholar, and hear the reading class at one and the same 
time. Dabold, Smiley and Pike's arithmetics were commonly used, with 
the examples for practice almost exclusively in pounds, shillings and pence, 
and a marked absence of clear rules and definitions for the solving of the dif- 
ferent divisions. Webster's "American Speller" was the ordinary spelling- 
book, which afterward made way for Webster's "Elementary Speller." This 
latter book maintained its popularity for half a century. The spelling class 
closed the labors of the day. All who could spell entered the " big class," and 
the rivalry was sharp as to who should rank first as good spellers. The class 
was numbered in the order in which they stood in line, and retained the num- 
ber until a miss sent some one above them. Spelling-matches were frequent, 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 301 

and contributed largely to make good spellers. Grammar was not often taught, 
partly for the reason that books were hard to get, and partly because some 
of the teachers were Qot proficient in this branch of learning. When the sci- 
ence was taught, the text-book was the earlier and larger edition of Murray, 
which, by the close of the first quarter of the century, was largely superseded 
by Kirkham, which, though of little real merit, stimulated a taste for grammar. 
The boys and girls went to the same school, but sat on opposite benches. 

It occasionally happened that teachers were employed who had learned that 
an elephant may be led by a hair, or more probably were blessed with gentle 
natures, and won the hearts and life-long affection of their pupils by their 
pleasant and loving ways; but these were exceptions.' The standard of excel- 
lence was often measured by the ability and swiftreadiness to thrash the schol- 
ars on any provocation. Disobedience and ignorance were equal causes for the 
use of the "birch." "Like master, like boy." The characteristics of the one 
tended to develop a corresponding spirit in the other, and the cruelty of the 
one, with the absence, too frequently, of all just discrimination in the use of 
the rod, excited animosities which lasted through life. There were few boys 
of that day who did not cherish the purpose to "whale the master" on sight 
at some future time. 

The schools were supported by subscription, the charge being from $1 to 
$3 per term of three months during the winter, to begin at 8 o'clock in the 
morning, with an hour to an hour and a half recess at noon, and close at 5 
o'clock. One-half of Saturdays, or alternate Saturdays, made part of thfe term. 
Writing was taught to all the larger pupils, and the only pen used was the 
goose or turkey quill, made into a pen by the skillful hand of the teacher. 
Mending the pens was an essential part of the work. Copy-books were made 
of sheets of foolscap paper stitched together, and copies were "set" by the 
teacher during recess, which were commonly taken from the maxims in use 
from time immemorial. Sometimes the teacher was partly paid in produce or 
other commodities, which were the equivalent to him for money, while his sup- 
port was often obtained by "boarding around." As an illustration of the 
mode of employing teachers during the pioneer days of Portage County, the 
writer inserts the following amusing agreement made December 3, 1823, 
between the Directors of a school in Edinburg Township, and Austin Loomis: 

Agreed with Austin Loomis, of Atwater, to teach school in Edinburg three months, 
for twelve bushels of wheat per month ; one-half to be paid at the end of three months in 
grain, and the remainder iti some other trade, such as cattle, sheep and w7iisky. 

It would bother a modern school teacher to cipher out how twelve bushels 
of wheat could be paid in "cattle, sheep and whisky," but probably the arith- 
metic now is not as it used to be, and the pioneer teacher may have had little 
difficulty in solving the problem to his own satisfaction. The early settlers 
were forced to resort to many expedients in the transaction of business, 
because of the stringency of the money market. That necessary ingredient 
was very scarce, and to m&ke change it was the common usage to halve and 
quarter pieces of silver coin. The introduction of schools in one settlement 
was an incentive to their speedy adoption in others, and the foregoing descrip- 
tion applies to all of the earliest schoolhouses erected in this county. The build- 
ing of saw-mills, and the opening up of wagon-roads, brought about a better 
order of things, and plank, weather-boarding and glass took the places of 
clapboards, puncheon floors and desks, log beeches and greased paper win- 
dows. The first schools opened in the different townships of Portage County 
are spoken of in the township sketches, to which the reader is referred for 
further information on the subject. 



302 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

The gradual development and progress of education in Ohio was encour- 
aged and fostered by State laws that were the germs from which came forth 
the present common school system, and believing that a brief synopsis of those 
enactments would be valuable for future reference, the writer has compiled the 
following facts from the Ohio statutes, trusting they will enable the reader to 
understand more thoroughly the history of the schools on the Western Reserve 
up to the adoption of the Constitution of 1851. On the 2d of January, 1806, 
three Trustees and a Treasurer were authorized to be elected in each township, 
for the purpose of taking charge of the school lands, or the moneys arising 
therefrom, and applying the same to the benefit of the schools in said town- 
ship. In 1810 this act was more fully defined, and in 1814 every scholar was 
entitled to his or her share of said school funds, even when attending a school 
outside of their own township. In 1815 those moneys were distributed accord- 
ing to the time of school attendance, an account of which each teacher was 
required to furnish to the Trustees, and the apportionment made accordingly. 
No act of any importance was then passed until January 22, 1821, when a vote 
was ordered to be taken in every township for the purpose of deciding for or 
against organizing the same into school districts; also for the election of a 
School Committee of three persons, and a Collector, who was also Treasurer in 
each district. The inhabitants were authorized to erect schoolhouses in their 
respective districts on land donated or purchased for that purpose, said schools 
to be paid for by donations and subscriptions, together with the taxes raised 
for that object. This act authorized that all lands located in said districts 
liable to State or county taxation were also liable to taxation for erecting 
schoolhouses, and for educating the children of those unable to pay for school- 
ing. Parents and guardians were assessed in proportion to the number of 
children sent to school by them, but those unable to pay had their assessment 
remitted, and such deficiency was paid out of the fund raised by taxation. Of 
course, the moneys accruing from the school lands went into the school fund 
held by the Treasurer of each district. 

The first general school law was passed February 5, 1825, and it provided 
"that a fund shall hereafter be annually raised among the several counties in 
the State, in the manner pointed out by this act, for the use of common schools, 
for the instruction of youth of every class and grade without distinction, in 
reading, writing, arithmetic and other necessary branches of a common 
education." This was in harmony with the constitution, which asserted that 
schools and the means of instruction should forever be encouraged by legisla- 
tive provision. This act provided for a general tax to be levied for the foster.- 
ing of common schools throughout the State, which was to be collected annu- 
ally and used for general educational purposes. Three School Directors were to 
be elected annually in each district, to transact the business of said schools, erect 
buildings, employ teachers, receive and expend all moneys derived from any 
source, etc. The Court of Common Pleas in each county was authorized to 
appoint annually "three suitable persons to be called Examiners of Common 
Schools," whose duties it was to examine teachers for qualification and grant 
certificates, also to visit and examine the schools throughout the county. If 
any district neglected to keep a school therein, at any one time for the space 
of three years, its proportion of the school fund was divided among the other 
districts in said township that employed teachers. The school fund of each 
county was taken charge of by the Auditor, who distributed the same between 
the several townships. In 1827, this act was amended. The Directors were 
instructed to appoint a Treasurer for each school district. Fines imposed by 
any Justice of the Peace, for offenses committed in any given district, were to 





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^^y:^<^s^. 



:r£V 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 305 

be paid to the Treasurer, to be used for the support of education in said dis- 
trict. Taxes were levied to build new houses and repair old ones. Every 
householder, whose tax was less than $1, had to pay that amount, or give two 
days' labor toward the building or repairing of schoolhouses. The number of 
Examiners was increased, but at no time were they to exceed the number of 
townships in the county. 

In February, 1829, a law was enacted providing more fully for general 
education, but the children of black or mulatto persons were not permitted to 
attend these schools, nor wore such persons compelled to pay taxes toward their 
support. The official term of Examiners was designated as two years, and 
their number to be not less than five in each county, nor more than one in each 
township thereof. Whenever the regular school fund ran short, the teachers, 
if not paid by voluntary subscription, were to be paid by those sending schol- 
ars to said schools. Often the regular fund did not pay for more than three 
months' schooling annually, so that even then the schools, though slowly 
improving, were anything but flourishing. The act of 1830 did not materially 
improve them, and in March, 1831, the following clause appears in a law 
relative to raising the school fund. It says a general fund shall be raised "for 
the instruction of the white youth of every class and grade," so that, although 
Ohio was a free State, a black man was debarred from, the educational advan- 
tages accorded to his white brother, and though his body was not kept in 
slavery his mind was kept in ignorance as far as the State laws had the power 
to do so. With all this injustice the property of negroes was exempt from 
taxation for school purposes, which was at least a small grain of justice to the 
despised race. The school age was changed so as to include those between 
four and twenty-one years, and the number of Examiners read "not less than 
five in each county, nor more than two in each township." ' 

On the 2d of March, 1831, an act was passed authorizing the establish- 
ment of a fund to be designated " The Common School Fund," the income to 
be used for the support of common schools. All moneys arising from the sale 
of school lands were to be put into this fund, and the State guaranteed a cer- 
tain interest on all such moneys paid into the State Treasury. The County 
Auditors were authorized to draw said interest and distribute it among the 
several districts in their respective counties, to which said lands originally 
belonged. , Donations and bequests were also put into this fund and used for 
the same general purpose. These moneys, however, were to be funded annu- 
ally, until January 1, 1835, after which date the interest was divided among 
the several counties in proportion to the number of white males over twenty- 
one years of age residing therein. 

tip to this time women were not eligible as school teachers, for we find 
that an act was passed December 23, 1831, allowing Directors to employ 
female teachers, but the Directors had to signify in writing to the School 
Examiners that it was the desire of the inhabitants of said district to employ 
" a female teacher for instructing their children in spelling, reading and 
writing only. " The Examiners were then empowered to give the lady "a 
special certificate" to teach those branches. It is unnecessary for the writer 
to comment on this injustice; he takes it for granted that the most illiberal of 
men will agree with him that this discrimination against women was a griev- 
ous wrong and unworthy of this great Commonwealth. In 1833 other provis- 
ions and amendments were made to the school laws, whose object was to 
increase their influences, but no material changes were made in former ones. 

The office of State Superintendent of Schools was created March 7, 1837, 
and made permanent a year from that date. He was elected by the General 

17 



306 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

Assembly for a term of five years, but on the 23d of March, 1840, the office 
was abolished, and the Secretary of State required to perform the duties 
thereof. In 1838 a fund of $200,000 was provided for, to be annually dis- 
tributed among the several counties, according to the number of white youth, 
unmarried, between the ages of four and twenty-one. It was known as the 
"State Common School Fund," was reduced, March 7, 1842, to $150,000 and 
again raised to $300,000 on the 24th of March, 1851. By Article VI of the 
Constitution of 1851 it is declared that the principal of all funds accruing 
from school lands, donations or bequests, "shall forever be preserved inviolate 
and undiminished." It was enacted by the law of 1838 that the Township 
Clerk should be Superintendent of Schools within his township, and this law 
remained in force until the re-organization of the school laws, in 1853. By 
this same law the County Auditor was endowed with the position of Superin- 
tendent of Schools throughout the county. The number of School Examiners 
was reduced to three members for each county, who were appointed by the 
Court of Common Pleas. 

On the 16th of March, 1839, an act was passed providing for the establish- 
ment of night schools in towns, wherein male youth over twelve years of age, 
who could not attend school in the daytime, might be instructed. This law 
also enacted that scholars could attend German schools and yet receive their 
quota of school money. Subsequently the German language was introduced 
into the schools as a part of the regular studies. 

On the 24th of February, 1848, a law was passed authorizing the estab- 
lishment of separate schools for colored children. This law was amended in 
1849, and was thought by many to be contrary to the spirit of the constitution, 
but the Supreme Court declared it constitutional. Separate school districts 
were authorized to be organized and managed by Directors chosen by the 
adult male colored tax-payers, whose property was alone chargeable for the sup- 
port of said schools. Colored children were not really debarred under the con- 
stitution at that time from attending the schools provided for white children, but 
it amounted to about the same thing as the objection of any parent or guardian 
whose children attended said school prevented the attendance of colored 
youth. Thus the law existed until 1853, when the schools for colored chil- 
dren were placed upon the same basis as those for white. By the law of 1853, 
^Boards of Education were directed, whenever the colored youth in any school 
district numbered more than thirty, to establish a school for them. This law 
was so amended in 1864 that two or more districts could unite for the same 
purpose. Much trouble has been caused in different towns by the colored peo- 
ple insisting on sending their children to the schools for whites. In some 
places little or no opposition has been manifested, while in others a bitter 
struggle resulted. In the country districts and smaller towns white and col- 
ored children usually attend the same schools, and, as far as the writer has 
investigated the plan, it seems to work harmoniously. 

The school law of 1853 made ample provision for the education of every 
class and grade of youth within the State. We have seen in the preceding 
pages that those who participated in the organization of the Northwest Terri- 
tory, and subsequently the State, recognized religion, morality and knowledge 
as necessary to good government and the happiness of mankind. We have 
also seen the gradual development of education from its earliest inception in 
the State up to its present permanent foundation through the law of 1853. 
Under the present law the State is divided into school districts as follows: 
City districts of the first class, city districts of the second class, village dis- 
tricts, special districts and township districts. To administer the affairs of 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 307 

the districts, and to look after and promote the educational interests therein, 
the law has provided for the establishment of Boards of Education in each 
district. These boards may acquire real or personal property for the use of 
their districts, and are required to establish schools for free education of the 
youth of school age, and may establish schools of a higher grade than the 
primary schools. They are to determine the studies to be pursued and the 
text-books to be used in the schools under their control; to appoint superin- 
tendents of schools, teachers and other employes, and fix their salaries. They 
are authorized to make such rules and regulations as they may deem expedient 
and necessary for the government of the board, their appointees and pupils. 

The State Commissioner of common schools is elected by the people, and 
his official term is three years. He is required to superintend and encourage 
teachers' institutes, confer with Boards of Education or other school officers, 
counsel teachers, visit schools and deliver lectures calculated to promote popu- 
lar education. He is to have a supervision over the school funds, and has 
power by law to require proper returns to be made by the officers who have 
duties to perform pertaining to schools or school funds. It is his duty to give 
instruction for the organization and government of schools, and to distribute 
the school laws and other documents for the use of school officers. He is 
required by law to appoint a Board of State Examiners, consisting of three 
persons, who hold their office for two years. This board is authorized to issue 
life certificates to such teachers as may be found, upon examination, to have 
attained "eminent professional experience and ability." These certificates 
are valid in any school district in the State, and supersede the necessity of all 
other examinations by the county or local Boards of Examiners. Each appli- 
cant for a State certificate is required to pay a fee of $3. 

There is in each county in the State a Board of Examiners appointed by 
the Probate Judge, their official term being three years. The law provides 
that " it shall be the duty of the Examiners to fix upon the time of holding 
the meetings for the examination of teachers, in such places in their respective 
counties as will, in their opinion, best accommodate the greatest number of 
candidates for examination, notice of all such meetings being published in 
some newspaper of general circulation in their respective counties, and at such 
meetings any two of said board shall be competent to examine applicants and 
grant certificates: and as a condition of examination, each applicant for a 
certificate shall pay the Board of Examiners a fee of 50 cents." The fees 
thus received are set apart as a fund for the support of teachers' institutes. 

In city districts of the first and second class and village districts having a 
population of not less than 2,500, the Examiners are appointed by the Boards 
of Education. The fees charged are the same as those of the County Boards, 
and are appropriated for the same purpose. 

There are, in the different townships, subdistricts, in which the people elect, 
annually, a local Director, whose term of office continues for three years. 
From this it will be seen that each subdistrict has a board consisting of three 
Directors. These Directors choose one of their number as Clerk, who presides 
at the meetings of local Directors, and keeps a record thereof. He also keeps 
a record of the proceedings of the annual school meetings of the subdistrict. 
The Board of Education of each township district consists of the Township 
Clerk and the local Directors, who have been appointed Clerks of the sub- 
districts. 

The law provides that " in every district in the State, there shall be taken, 
between the first Monday in September and the first Monday in October, in 
each year, an enumeration of all unmarried youth, noting race and sex, between 



308 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

six and twenty-one years of age, resident within the district, and not tempo- 
rarily there, designating also the number between sixteen and twenty-one years 
of age, the number residing in the Western Reserve, the Virginia Military 
District, the United States Military District, and in any original surveyed 
township or fractional township to which belongs Section 16, or other land in 
lieu thereof, or any other lands for the use of schools or any interest in the 
proceeds of such land: Provided, that in addition to the classihed return of 
all the youth residing in the district, that the aggregate number of youth in 
the district resident of any adjoining county, shall be separately given, if any 
such there be, and the name of the county in which they reside." The Clerk 
of each Board of Education is required to transmit to the County Auditor an 
abstract of the returns of enumeration made to him, on or before the second 
Monday of October. 

The County Auditor is required to transmit to the State Commissioner, on 
or before the 5th day of November, a duly certified abstract of the enumera- 
tion returns made to him by Clerks of school districts. The law provides that 
"the Auditor of State shall, annually, apportion the common school funds 
among the different counties upon the enumeration and returns made to him 
by the State Commissioner of Common Schools, and certify the amount so 
apportioned to the County Auditor of each county, stating from what sources 
the same is derived, which said sum the several County Treasurers shall retain 
in their respective treasuries from the State funds; and the County Auditors 
shall, annually, and immediately after their annual settlement with the County 
Treasurers, apportion the school funds for their respective counties accord- 
ing to the enumeration and returns in their respective offices." 

The law ])rovides that the school year shall begin on the Ist day of Sep- 
tember of each year, and close on the 31st of August of the succeeding year. 
A school week shall consist of five days, and a school month of four school 
weeks. The law also provides, in relation to common schools, that they shall 
be "free to all youth between six and twenty- one years of age who are children, 
wards or apprentices of actual residents of the school district, and no pupil 
shall be suspended therefrom except for such time as may be necessary to con- 
vene the Board of Education of the district, or local Director of the subdis- 
trict, nor be expelled unless by a vote of two-thirds of said Board of local 
Directors, after the parent or guardian of the offending pupil shall have been 
notified of the proposed expulsion, and permitted to be heard against the 
same; and no scholar shall be suspended or expelled from the privilege of 
schools beyond the current term: Provided, that each Board of Education shall 
have power to admit other persons, not under six years of age, upon such 
terms, or upon the payment of such tuition as they prescribe; and Boards of 
Education of city, village or special districts shall also have power to admit, 
without charge or tuition, persons within the school age who are members of 
the family of any freeholder whose residence is not within such district, if any 
part of such freeholder's homestead is within such district; and provided fur- 
ther, that the several Boards of Education shall make such assignments of the 
youth of their respective districts to the schools established by them, as will, 
in their opinion, best promote the interests of education in their districts; and 
provided further, that nothing contained in this section shall supersede or 
modify the provisions of Section 31 of an act entitled "an act for the re-or- 
ganization, supervision and maintenance of common schools, passed March 14, 
1853, as amended March 18, 1864." 

Provision is made by law for the establishment and maintenance of teach- 
ers' institutes, which are established for the professional improvement of 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 309 

teachers. At each session competent instructors and lecturers are employed 
to assist the State Commissioner, who is required by law to superintend and 
encourage such institutes. They are either county, city or joint institutes of 
two or more counties, and the examination fees paid by teachers to Boards 
of Examiners are devoted to the payment of the expenses incurred by these 
instructions. 

History teaches us that no art or science, wealth or power will compensate 
for the lack of moral and intellectual stability in the minds of a nation. Hence 
it is admitted that the strength and perpetuity of this Republic must consist 
in the morality and intelligence of its people. Every youth in Ohio under 
twenty-one years of age may have the benefit of a public school education, and 
since the system of graded and high schools has been adopted, may obtain a 
general knowledge from the alphabet to the classics. The enumerated branches 
of study in the public schools of this State are about thirty-four, including 
mathematics and astronomy, French, German and the classics. Thus Ohio, 
which was in the heart of the wilderness one hundred years ago, and has been 
a State only eighty-two years, now presents to the world not merely an unriv- 
aled development of material prosperity, but a good system of popular educa- 
tion. 



CHAPTER IX. 

Public Officers— Members of Congress— State Senators— Territorial 
AND State Representatives — County Commissioners— Treasurers- 
Clerks— Recorders— Auditors — Sheriffs— Coroners— Surveyors — Pro- 
bate Judges— Seat of Justice and Public Buildings— Prison Bounds- 
County Infirmary— Political Statistics of Portage County— First 
Election Held; with the Names of the Candidates and Voters- 
Gubernatorial AND Presidential Vote. 

AFTER much labor and research among the musty, age-dimmed records 
stowed away in the Court House vaults, we have carefully compiled the 
roster of Portage County officials embraced in this chapter, together with their 
respective terms of service, from the organization of the county up to the pres- 
ent. In regard to the members of Congress, State Senators and Representa- 
tives, the reader will bear in mind that they respectively represent the district 
of which the territory now embraced in Portage County formed a part since 
the organization of the second grade of Territorial government in 1799. The 
latter lists were obtained from the annual reports of the Secretary of State, 
and may therefore be regarded as reliable.* 

Members of Congress. — "William H. Harrison, of Harbilton County, 1799, 
resigned in 1800, to accept the Governorship of the Territory of Indiana; 
William McMillan, of Hamilton County, vice Harrison, resigned, 1800 to 
1801; Paul Fearing, of Washington County, 1801 to 1803; Jeremiah Mor- 
row, of Warren County, 1803 to 1813; John S. Edwards, of Trumbull County, 
1813, resigned in April, 1813; Rezin Beall, of Wayne County, vice Edwards, 
resigned, April, 1813, Beall also resigning in August, 1813; David Clendeneu, 
of Trumbull County, vice Beall resigned, August, 1813 to 1817; Peter Hitch- 
cock, of Geauga County, 1817 to 1819; John Sloan, of Wayne County, 1819 
to 1823; Elisha Whittlesey, of Trumbull County (now Mahoning), 1823 to 

* For Common Pleas and Associate Judges, and Prosecuting Attorneys see Chapter X. 



310 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

1833; Jonathan Sloane, of Portage County, 1833 to 1837; John W. Allen, of 
Cuyahoga County, 1837 to 1841: Sherlock J. Andrews, of Cuyahoga County, 
1841 to 1843: Daniel R. Tilden, of Portage County, 1843 to 1847; John 
Crowell, of Trumbull County, 1847 to 1851; Eben Newton, of Mahoning 
County, 1851 to 1853; George Bliss, of Summit County, 1853 to 1855; Ben- 
jamin F. Leiter, of Stark County, 1855 to 1859; Sidney Edgerton, of Summit 
County, 1859 to 1863; James A. Garfield, of Portage County, 1863 to 1879; 
William McKinley, Jr., of Stark County, 1879 to 1881; Ezra B. Taylor, of 
Trumbull County, 1881, third terni expires in 1887. 

State Senators.- — Samuel Huntington, district Trumbull County, 1803; 
Benjamin Tappan, same district, 1803 to 1804: George Tod, same district, 
1804 to 1806; Calvin Cone, district Trumbull and Geauga, 1806 to 1808; 
David Abbott, district Portage and Geauga, 1808 to 1810; David Abbott, dis- 
trict Portage, Geauga and Cuyahoga, 1810 to 1812; Peter Hitchcock, district 
Portage, Geauga, Cuyahoga and Ashtabula, 1812 to 1816; Aaron Wheeler and 
Almon Buggies, district Portage, Geaaga, Cuyahoga, Ashtabula and Huron, 
1816 to 1818; Aaron Wheeler and John Campbell, same district, including 
Medina County, 1818 to 1819; John Campbell and Almon Ruggles, same dis- 
trict, 1819 to 1820; Jonathan Foster, district Portage and Medina, 1820 to 
1822; Jonathan Sloane, same district, 1822 to 1824, Aaron Norton, same dis- 
trict, 1824 to 1825; Elkanah Richardson, vice Aaron Norton, deceased, same 
district, 1825 to 1826; Jonathan Sloane, same district, 1826 to 1828; Darius 
Lyman, district Portagef 1828 to 1832; Chauncy Eggleston, same district, 
1832 to 1834; Darius Lyman, same district, 1834 to 1835; Frederick Wads- 
worth, same district, 1835 to 1836; Daniel Upson, same district, 1836 to 
1838; Gregory Powers, same district, 1838 to 1839; Simon Perkins, Jr., same 
district, 1839 to 1840; Elisha N. Sill, same district, 1840 to 1841; Elisha N. 
Sill, district Portage and Summit, 1841 to 1842; John E. Jackson, same dis- 
trict, 1842 to 1844; William Wetmore, same district, 1844 to 1846; Asahel 
H. Lewis, same district, 1846 to 1848; Lucian Swift, same district, 1848 to 
1850; Darius Lyman, same district, 1850 to 1851. 

Under the Constitution of 1851 the State was divided into fixed Senatorial 
districts. Portage and Summit were designated as the Twenty-sixth District, 
and have so remained to the present time. The Senators since then have 
been as follows: Ransom A. Giilett, 1852 to 1854; William H. Upson, 1854 
to 1856; Oliver P. Brown, 1856 to 1858; George P. Ashmun, 1858 to 1860; 
James A. Garfield, 1800 to 1862; Lucius V. Bierce, 1862 to 1864; Luther 
Day, 1864, resigned in the summer of 1864, and was succeeded the following 
October by Alphonso Hart, who served until 1866; N. T. Tibbals, 1866 to 
1868; Philo B. Conant, 1868, resigned in August, 1868, and was succeeded by 
William Stedman, who served until 1870; Henry McKinney, 1870 to 1872; 
Alphonso Hart, 1872 to 1874; N. W. Goodhue, 1874 to 1876; Marvin Kent, 
1876 to 1878; David D. Beebe, 1878 to 1882; S. P. Wolcott, 1882, second 
term expires in 1886. Senator Wolcott, under the apportionment of 1881, 
was chosen to represent the Twenty -fourth and Twenty-sixth Districts, the 
former embracing the counties of Ashtabula, Lake and Geauga, and the latter 
Summit and Portage. 

Territorial and State Representatives. — James Pritchard, district Jeffer- 
son County, 1799 to 1801; Edward Paine, district Trumbull, 1801 to 1803; 
Ephraim Quimby and Aaron Wheeler, same district, 1803; David Abbott and 
Ephraim Quimby, same district, 1803 to 1804; Amos Spotford and Homer 
Heine, same district, 1804 to 1805; Homer Heine and James Kingsbury, same 
district, 1805 to 1806; John P. Bissell and James Kingsbury, district Trum- 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 311 

bull and Geauga, 1806 to 1807; John W. Seeleyand James Montgomery, same 
district, 1807 to 1808; Abel Sabin, district Portage, 1808 to 1809; Benjamin 
Whedon, same district, 1809 to 1810; Elias Harmon, same district, 1810 to 
1812; Rial McArthur, same district, 1812 to 1815; Moses Adams, same dis- 
trict, 1815 to 1816; Darius Lyman, same district, 1816 to 1818; Darius Lyman, 
district Portage and Medina, 1818 to 1820; Jonathan Sloane and James 
Moore, same district, 1820 to 1822; George B. DePeyster and Joseph Harris, 
same district, 1822 to 1823; George B. DePeyster and James Moore, same 
district, 1823 to 1824; William Coolman, district Portage, 1824 to 1828; 
Van R. Humphrey, same district, 1828 to 1830; Thomas Earl, same district, 
1830 to 1832; Gregory Powers, same district, 1832 to 1833; Roan Clark, 
same district, 1833 to 1834; Amos Seward, same district, 1834 to 1835; Joseph 
Lyman, same district, 1835 to 1836; William Quimby and Thomas C Shreve, 
same district, 1836 to 1837; Solomon Day and William Wetmore, same dis- 
trict, 1837 to 1838; Elisha Garrett and George Kirkum, same district, 1838 to 
1839; Rufus P. Spalding and Ephraim B. Hubbard, same district, 1839 to 
1840; Jason Streator and Hiram Giddings, same district, 1840 to 1841; John 
Streator, same district, 1841 to 1842; Thomas Earl and Samuel H. Pardee, 
same district, 1842 to 1843; Plimman C. Bennett, same district, 1843 to 1844; 
Robert F. Paine, same district, 1844 to 1845; David Mcintosh and Thomas C. 
Shreve, district Portage and Summit, 1845 to 1846; Luther Russell, district 
Portage, 1846 to 1847; William Coolman and Amos Seward, district Portage 
and Summit, 1847 to 1848; George Sheldon, district Portage, 1848 to 1850; 
Lorin Bigelow, same district, 1850 to 1851. 

Since the adoption of the Constitution of 1851, Portage County has com- 
posed a separate legislative district, and has been represented in the Lower 
House by the following citizens: Lorin Bigelow, 1852 to 1854; L. W. Coch- 
ran, 1854 to 1856; Erasmus Needham, 1856 to 1858; Cyrus Laughlin, 1858 to 
1860; William Stedman and A. J. Squire, 1860 to 1862; David L. Rockwell, 
1862 to 1864; Samuel E. M. Kneeland, 1864 to 1866; William Stedman, 
1866 to 1868; Reuben P. Cannon, 1868 to 1872; Joseph R. Conrad, 1872 to 
1874; Orvil Blake, 1874 to 1878; Charles R. Harmon, 1878 to 1882; Egbert 
S. Woodworth, 1882 to 1884; Aaron JM. Sherman, 1884, term expires in 1886. 

County Commissioners. — Abel Sabin, from June 8, 1808, to October, 1808; 
Joel Gay lord, June 8, 1808, to October, 1809; Lewis Day, June 8, 1808, to 
October, 1810; Joseph Harris, October, 1808, to October, 1811; Oliver Snow, 
October, 1809, to October, 1812; Samuel King, October, 1810, to October, 
1813; John T. Baldwin, October, 1811, to October, 1814; Oliver Snow (re- 
elected), October, 1812, to October, 1815; Owen Brown, October, 1813, to 
October, 1816; John T. Baldwin (re-elected), October, 1814, to October, 1817; 
Amzi Atwater. October, 1815, to October, 1818; Owen Brown (re-elected), 
October, 1816, to October, 1819; Rufus Ferris, October, 1817, resigned March, 
1818; Alexander K.Hubbard, April, 1818, to October. 1820; Dillingham Clark, 
October, 1818, to October, 1821; George Clark, October, 1819, to October, 1822; 
Asa K. Burroughs, October, 1820, to October, 1823; James Coe, October, 1821, to 
October, 1824; Elkanah Richardson, October, 1822, to October, 1825; Asa K. 
Burroughs (re-elected), October, 1823, to October, 1826; James Coe (re- elected), 
October, 1824, to October, 1827; Asaph Whittlesey, October, 1825, to October, 
1828; Owen Brown, October, 1826, to October, 1829; James Coe (re elected), 
October, 1827, to October, 1830; Hiram Giddings, October, 1828, to October, 
1831; Jonathan Foster, October, 1829, to October, 1832; Edwin Wetmore, Octo- 
ber, 1830, to October, 1833; Andrew Bassett, October, 1831, to October, 1834; 
Elisha Garrett, October, 1832, to October, 1835; Alanson Baldwin, October, 



312 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

1833, to October, 1836; Solomon Day, October, 1834, to October, 1837; Henry 
Chittenden, October, 1835, to October, 1838; Royal Taylor, October, 1836, to 
October, 1839; EphraimL. Williams, October, 1837, to October, 1840; Henry 
Chittenden (re-elected), October, 1838, resigned June, 1840; Moses Eggleston, 
October, 1839, to October, 1842; Arthur Anderson, June, 1840, to October, 
1840; Miner Merrick, October, 1840, to October, 1841; Leverett Norton, Octo- 
ber, 1840, to October, 1843; Miner Merrick (re-elected), October, 1841, to Octo- 
ber, 1844; Moses Eggleston (re-elected), October, 1842, to October, 1845; 
William R. Kelso, October, 1843. to October, 1846; Benjamin Marshall, 
October, 1844, to October, 1847; Caleb Carleton, October, 1845, to October, 
1848; William R. Kelso (re-elected), October, 1846, to October, 1849; Orsa- 
mus L. Drake, October, 1847, to October, 1850; Carnot Mason, October, 1848, 
to October, 1851; Hiram Spencer, October, 3849, to October, 1852; Joel H. 
Curtis, October, 1850, resigned December, 1852; Moses A. Birchard, Decem- 
ber, 1851, to December, 1854; Ebenezer S. Harmon, November, 1852, to Decem- 
ber, 1855; David K. Wheeler, December, 1852, to December, 1850; Sylvester 
Huggins, December, 1854, to December, 1857; Evan E. Davis, December, 
1855, to December, 1858; Charles Goodsell, December, 1856, to December, 
1859; Horace Adams, December, 1857, resigned January, 1858; David K. 
Wheeler, February, 1858, to December, 1858; S. A. Hinman, December, 1858, 
to December, 1860; E. D. Carlton, December, 1858, to December, 1861; A. 
H. Weatherbee, December, 1859, to December, 1862; L. C. Merrill, December, 
1860,to December, 1863; Thomas Gorby, December, 1861, to December, 1864; 
E. D. Carlton (re-elected), December, 1862, to December, 1865; P. P. Daw- 
ley, December, 1863, to December, 1866; Joseph R. Conrad, December, 1864, 
to December, 1867; Ozias Allyn, December, 1865, to December, 1868; P. P. 
Dawley (re-elected), December, 1866, to December, 1869: Joseph R. Conrad 
(re-elected), December, 1867, to December, 1870; H. J. Noble, December, 
1868, to December, 1871; N. B. Jennings, December, 1869, to December, 
1872; Smith Sanford, December, 1870, to December, 1873; Isaac Brown, 
December, 1871, to December, 1874; Luther H. Parmelee, December, 1872, 
resigned December, 1874; Smith Sanford (re-elected), December, 1873, to 
December, 1876; Edward A. Parsons, December, 1874, to December, 1875; 
Wanzer Holcomb, December, 1874, to December, 1877; Edward A. Parsons, 
December, 1875, to December, 1878; Edgar Whittlesey, December, 1876, to 
December, 1879; P. C. Nichols, December, 1877, to December, 1880; A. B. 
Merrill, December, 1878, to December, 1881; Edgar Whittlesey (re-elected), 
December, 1879, to December, 1882; P. C. Nichols (re-elected), December, 
1880, to December, 1883; A. B. Merrill (re-elected), December, 1881, to Decem- 
ber, 1884; Orrin Smyth, December, 1882, term expires in December, 1885; 
J. L. Thompson, December, 1883, term expires in December, 1886; Wanzer 
Holcomb, December, 1884, term expires in December, 1887. 

Treasurers. — Elias Harmon, June, 1808, resigned November, 1810; Gersham 
Bostwick, from November, 1810, to June, 1814; Hemaii Oviatt, June, 1814, to 
June, 1815; Gersham Bostwick, June, 1815, to June, 1816; William Wetmore, 
June, 1816, to June, 1824; Isaac Swift, June, 1824, to June, 1832; Frederick 
Williams, June, 1832, to June, 1840; Henry L. Tilden, June, 1840, to June, 
1846; Enos P. Brainerd, June, 1846, to June, 1848; Jackson T. Green, June, 
1848, to June, 1852; Charles Green, June, 1852, to June, 1856; Lyman Bryant, 
June, 1856, to June, 1858; Harvey C. Newberry, June, 1858, to September, 
1860; George Sanford, September, 1860, to September, 1862; Samuel D. Har- 
ris, September, 1862, to September, 1866; Gustavus P. Reed, September, 
1866, to September, 1870; Edward G. Hinman, September, 1870, to Septem- 




^A&O^^UCy^ '^(f-C-\A^\ 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 315 

ber, 1874; John C. Beatty, September, 1874, to September, 1878; Nathan H. 
Smith, September, 1878, to September, 1882; Wilbur A. Jenkins, September, 
1882, second term expires in September, 1886. 

Clerks. — Benjamin Whedon, August, 1808, to December, 1809; William 
Wetmore, December, 1809, to March, 1813; Ira Hudson, March, 1813, to Octo- 
ber, 1817; Seth Day, October, 1817, to October, 1831; George Kirkum, Octo- 
ber, 1831, to October, 1838; William Coolman, Jr., October, 1838, to June, 
1845; Horace Y. Beebe, July, 1845, to February, 1852; Ebenezer Spalding, 
February, 1852, to February, 1855; Edmund Bostwick, February, 1855, to 
February, 1861; Horace M. Clark, February, 1861, to February, 1867; 
Andrew Jackson, February, 1867, to February, 1873; John Meharg, February, 
1873, to February, 1882; John Porter, February, 1882, second term expires 
in February, 1888. 

i?ecorders.— Titus Wetmore, October, 1808, to April, 1810; William Wet- 
more, May, 1810, to February, 1813; Ira Hudson, March, 1813, to September, 
1817; Seth Day, October, 1817, to August, 1831; John N. Skinner, August, 
1831, to October, 3849; Rodolphus Bard, October, 1849, to October, 1852; 
Andrew Jackson, October, 1852, to October, 1855; Joshua T. Catlin, October, 
1855, to January, 1862; James Norton, January, 1862, to January, 1868; 
George W. Barrett, January, 1868, to January, 1877; Philo Bierce, January, 
1877, third term expires in January, 1886. 

Auditors. — This office was created by an act of the Legislature passed 
February 8, 1820. the duties then belonging to the position having previously 
been performed by a clerk appointed by the Commissioners. Under the old 
regime but six men filled the office, viz.: Abel Sabin and Seth Day, in 1808; 
Seth Day, 1809; Oliver C. Dickinson, 1810-11: Stephen Mason, 1812-17; 
Alexander K. Hubbard, 1818; Orvill Crane, 1819 to February, 1820. Since 
that time the Auditors have been as follows: Rial McArthur, February, 1820, 
to February, 1823; Samuel D. Harris, March, 1823, to February, 1831; Sam- 
uel Foljambe, March, 1831, to February, 1841; George B. De Peyster. March, 
1841, to January, 1844; Charles L. Rhodes, February, 1844, to February, 
1847; Caleb Atwater, March, 1847, to February, 1849; John G. McBride, 
March, 1849, to February, 1853; Lorenzo Frost, March, 1853, to February, 
1855; Thomas W. Browning, March, 1855, to February, 1857; H. L. Carter, 
March, 1857, to February, 1859; Alfred Baldwin, March, 1859, to February, 
1861; Frank L. Sawyer, March, 1861, to February, 1863; Henry H. Stevens, 
March, 1863, to February, 1869; William Grinnell, February, 1869, to Novem- 
ber, 1880; Le Grand A. Olin, November, 1880, second term expires in Novem- 
ber, 1886. 

Sheriffs. — Alva Day, June 8, 1808, to December, 1810; John Campbell, 
January, 1811, to November, 1812; Stephen Mason, November, 1812, to Novem- 
ber, 1816; Asa K. Burroughs, November, 1816, resigned in March, 1820; 
William Coolman, April, 1820, to November, 1824; John King, November, 
1824, to November, 1826; James Perry, November, 1826, to November, 1830; 
Frederick Wadsworth, November, 1830, to November, 1834; George Y. Wal- 
lace, November, 1834, to November, 1838; Laurin Dewey, November, 1838, to 
November, 1842; Willam Frazer, November, 1842, to November, 1844; David 
W. Jennings, November, 1844, to November, 1846; John Gillis, November, 
1846, to November, 1850; James Woodward, November, 1850, to November, 
1854; Ferris Couch, November, 1854, to November, 1856; Ira Gardner, 
November, 1856, to January, 1859; Thomas R. Williams, January, 1859, to 
January, 1863; William F. Parsons, January, 1863, to January, 1865; Henry, 
C. Jennings, January, 1865, to January, 1869; Otis B. Paine, January, 1869, to 



316 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

January, 1873: O. C. Risdon, January, 1873, to January, 1877; Benjamin F. 
Keller, January, 1877, to January, 1881; William Wilcox, January, 1881, to 
January, 1885; H. T. Sheldon, January, 1885, term expires in January, 1887. 

Coroyier's. — Lewis Day, June 8, 1808, to October, 1808; Lewis Elv, October, 
1808, to 1814; William Frazer, 1820, to 1823; J. V. Gardner, 1832, to 1839; 
William Frazer, 1840, to 1841; E. M. Crane, 1842, to 1843; R. J. Thompson, 
1844, to 1845; A. W. Stocking, 1846. to 1847; E. Needham, 1848, to 1849; J. 
M. Tilden, 1850, to 1851; E. B. Babcock, 1852, to November, 1854; Ephraim 
B. Hubbard, November, 1854, to November, 1856; D. R. Bissell, November, 
1856, to October, 1857; George Sanford, October, 1857, to January, 1860; 
James O. Gurlej'^, January, 1860, to January, 1862; D. C. Stockwell, January, 
1862, to January, 1864; Chauncy B. Curtis, January, 1864, to January, 1866; 
E. W. Crain, January, 1866, to February, 1866; Luther H. Parmelee, March, 
1866, to January, 1869; Recellus Root, January, 1869, to January, 1871; 
Lyman Bryant, January, 1871, to January, 1874; Thomas R. Williams, Jan- 
uary, 1874, to January, 1876; Aaron M. Sherman, January, 1877, to January, 
1879; A. H. Barlow, January, 1879, to January, 1885; O. D. Olds, January, 
1885, term expires in January, 1887. 

Surveyors. — Among the first Surveyors of Portage County were Amzi 
Atwater, Rial McArthur, Abel Sabin and A. K. BuiToughs, who discharged the 
duties of the office for the first seven years of the county's history, since 
which time the following citizens have filled the position: John Harmon, 
1815 to 1827; Orrin Harmon, 1828 to 1832; Samuel D. Harris, 1833, to 1835; 
John E. Jackson, 1836, to 1838; Samuel D. Harris, 1839, to 1840; Daniel 
Woodruff, 1840, to 1843; Samuel D. Harris, 1844, to 1857; Ruggles Bostwick 
1858 to 1863; Isaiah Linton, 1864 to 1866; C. J. Gillis, 1867 to 1869; Jede- 
diah Cole, 1870 to 1884; C. B. Wadsworth, 1885, term expires in December, 
1887. 

Probate Judges. — Luther L. Brown, February, 1852, to February, 1855; 
Darius Lyman, February, 1855, to February, 1864; Oliver P. Brown, February, 
1864, resigned in May, 1864; Joshua T. Catlin, May, 1864, to February, 
1867; Jacob V. Mell, February, 1867, to February, 1873; Gideon Seymour, 
February, 1873, to February, 1882; Cornelius A. Reed, February, 1882, sec- 
ond term expires in February, 1888. 

Seat of Justice and Public Buildings. — The act erecting Portage County 
designated the house of Benjamin Tappan as the place for holding the courts 
of said county until a permanent seat of justice should be established. This 
house, the second one occupied by Judge Tappan, was a frame building, which 
then stood about a mile east of Ravenna on what is now the Marcus Heath 
farm, and was erected by John McManus for Tappan about 1804. A tradition 
exists that on the first meeting of the Court of Common Pleas August 23, 1808, 
this house was found in ruins, having been burned down the previous night. 
The journal of that date does not mention where the Court first met, but says 
that after organizing and accepting the report of the Commissioners, Robert 
Simison, Samuel Hunter and Rezin Beall, appointed by the Legislature to 
select a seat of justice for Portage County, it adjourned to meet the same 
afternoon at the house of Robert Eaton. The journal of the Commissioners of 
Portage County shows that their first session was held at tbe house of Robert 
Eaton on the 8th of June, 1808. The Eaton house, which is yet standing in 
a fair state of preservation, is located about two miles and a half southeast of 
Ravenna, and is now (January, 1885,) the residence of R. J. Thompson, Esq. 
It is a two story frame structure of large dimensions, and was utilized for 
both Court House and Jail until tbe completion of the first public buildings at 
Ravenna in 1810. 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 317 

Eavenna was laid out by Benjamin Tappan early in 1808, and tbe plat 
acknowledged by him April 22 of that year before Henry O'Neill, a Justice of 
the Peace of Franklin Township, Trumbull Co. (now in Portage), Ohio, which 
township then embraced a large scope of territory in Portage County, subse- 
quently divided into several townships. The State Commissioners previously 
mentioned soon afterward selected Ravenna as the seat of justice for Portage 
County, and reported the result of their labors to the Court of Common Pleas 
of said county at its first session the following August. The original town 
plat contained 192 lots, four of which were donated by Judge Tappan for pub- 
lic uses, viz.: Nos. 22 and 78 for school sites, and Nos. 52 and 108 for churches. 
He also gave a piece of ground at the southwest corner of the town plat 
for a grave-yard, for which purpose it was used several years. On the 25th of 
April, 1809, the Commissioners of Portage County purchased of Judge Ben- 
jamin Tappan, as the agent of his father, Benjamin Tappan, of Northampton, 
Mass., Lots Nos. 55, 56 and 57, whereon the Court House and Jail now stand, 
for the sum of $300, the acknowledgment of the deed for said lots being 
made by Judge Tappan on the same date before Joseph Harris, a Justice of 
the Peace of Portage County. The next things necessary were a Court House 
and Jail, and under the date of December 5, 1809, the following item appears 
on the Commissioner's journal: 

Mr. William Tappan entered into an agreement in behalf of himself and John Tap- 
pan, to erect at the seat of justice in Ravenna at their own expense a Court House forty 
feet long, thirty feet wide and twenty feet high, the lower story to be finished for the 
accommodation of the Court, etc. ; and to build a log Jail two stories high, twenty-five feet 
long and twenty feet wide, the lower story to contain three rooms, and a chimney to con- 
tain two tire-places, one on each story; and the said William and John, on the completion 
of the said Court House and Jail, are to receive those lots given by Benjamin Tappan for 
the use of the county. 

From the wording of this agreement we would naturally infer that Ben- 
jamin Tappan had donated some lots to the county, but there is not the stroke 
of a pen on record to show that Portage County ever received a foot of land 
from Judge Tappan or from any other member of the Tappan family, only 
what she paid for. We have already shown that the lots upon which the 
Court House and Jail now stand were purchased of Judge Tappan for the 
sum of $300, a copy of the deed for which may be found in the Recorder's 
office, and this is the only transaction on record relating in the remotest 
degree to the subject, as the lots given for the sites of churches and schools, as 
well as the block of land for burial purposes, were for the use of the citizens 
of Ravenna and not for Portage County. Judge Tappan, however, may have 
agreed to donate certain lots for public uses, though never legally transferring 
them to the county, and the Commissioners concluding to locate the public 
buildings on their present site, turned over their right to said lots to William 
and John Tappan, to whom the deed was subsequently made, yet there is not 
an iota of evidence on record to give any foundation for this theory, only the 
agreement for erecting the Court House and Jail made between the Tappans 
and the County Commissioners December 5, 1809. 

The buildings were completed in the summer of 1810. The Court House 
was a frame structure, and stood a little northwest of the present commodious 
building. The Courier in its issue of October 21, 1826, thus comments on 
this structure: "Portage County can boast, on the score of public build- 
ings, nothing but a shell, which is alternately occupied by bipeds and quad- 
rupeds, and which, from its dilapidated state, is equally easy of access to both 
— and in which, we may, at different times, hear the preachers of the Gospel, 
the expounders of the law, and the birch of the schoolmaster, and consequently 



318 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

the squalls of the children, the squealing of the pigs and the bleating of 
sheep. 'Tis, in fact, occupied as a Court House and meeting-house, and we all 
know it has become proverbial as the county sheep-pen." 

In 1829 it was sold to Gen. Samuel D. Harris, who removed it to the site of 
Merts & Riddle's factory. After standing unoccupied for several years it was 
purchased by James Clark & Co., who converted it into a carriage-shop, which 
was subsequently owned and operated by N. D. Clark & Co. The factory 
passed thence into the possession of Merts & Riddle, and was burned down 
August 11, 1871. The first story of the Jail was built of hewn logs, eighteen 
inches square, and was floored and roofed in the same manner. The Sheriff's 
residence was in one side of the building, while the second story over the Jail 
proper was also occupied by that officer. This building stood on the south- 
west corner of the present Jail site, but was removed soon after the completion 
of the second Jail, in November, 1819. It does not seem to have given very 
good satisfaction, judging from the following protests made to the Commis- 
Hioners by two successive Sheriffs. 

Portage County, July 16, 1810. 

To the Clerk of Commissioners of Portage Go^inty. — I protest against the Jail of this 
couuty with my solemn declaration that it is an insufficient Jail. Alva Day, Sheriff. 

Portage County, February 9, 1811. 

I, the subscriber, do hereby protest against the Jail of Portage County, it being 
entirely insufficient to secure a prisoner. John Campbell, Sheriff'. 

A few years after the erection of the first Court House and Jail, a very sub- 
stantial one-story brick building, 30x60, was erected upon the site of the new 
portion of the present Court House. It contained two rooms, which were 
occupied as the offices of the Recorder, the Clerk, and the Commissioners' 
Clerk. This building continued in use until the second Court House was in 
process of erection, when it was torn down, and the material used in the walls 
of the new structure. 

In April, 1818, steps were taken by the Commissioners toward the erection 
of a new Jail, and three lots in Ravenna, viz.. No. 175, 176 and 177, were pur- 
chased of William Tappan for the sum of |90, the purchase being agreed to 
December 31, 1818, and the contract consummated on the 5th of January fol- 
lowing. On the last day of December, 1818, a contract was made with Oviatt 
& Kent for the erection of a frame Jail, to cost $1,520. As these old buildings 
are of some historic interest to the present generation, we here give a partial 
copy of the agreement. Oviatt & Kent having given bond in the sum of 
$3,050 for the faithful performance of the contract, the agreement goes on to 
say: 

The conditions of the above obligation are such that, whereas, the above bound Oviatt 
& Kent hath undertaken to build a good and sufficient Jail for the county of Portage, 
thirty-two feet in width by thirty-four feet in length, two stories high, and furnish them- 
selves with all the materials, and finish it off complete for the sum of $1,520, the building 
to be divided in the following manner, viz. : The lower story, fourteen feet off one end to 
be built of good sound white oak timber, hewn fourteen inches square, without wane, and 
divided into two rooms, witli a space-way between of four feet in the clear, and floored 
under and over with timber of the same description as the walls, with one fifteen-light 
window in the back end of the hall, in two sashes and very strongly grated with iron; one 
door out of the space-way into each of the prison rooms, and one into the other part of 
the house, all made double with two-inch white oak plank and covered on the inside with 
sheet-iron at least one-eighth of an inch thick, and doubled over the edge of the door and 
very strongly nailed with stout nails, and hung with large iron hinges suitable for doors of 
such weight and size, and one large and sufficient lock on each of the three doors. * * 

Those two prison rooms were supplied with ventilation and light through an 
iron-grated hole, fourteen inches in height by three feet in length, cut through 
the log walls into the dividing hall-way. When the reader is informed that 
under each of those cells, and connecting therewith, were the closets or sinks 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 319 

used by the prisoners, the excrement being allowed to filter through a stoned 
drain, he can readily discern the great improvements that have been made in 
the sanitary condition of our prisons during the past three-quarters of a cen- 
tury. This portion of the building was to have a solid hard-head atone foun- 
dation, the remainder to be of common stone well laid. The other twenty 
feet of the lower story was divided into four rooms: a Sheriff's office, a bed- 
room, a kitchen and a buttery, a large fire-place at the end of the building 
serving the two-fold purpose of cooking and heating. A strongly- walled cel- 
lar, fourteen feet square, was constructed under the kitchen, and the second 
story was reached by a stairway from the same room. The upper story was 
divided into seven apartments. Two debtors' rooms were constructed imme- 
diately over the lower prison cells, and of the same dimensions as the lower 
ones, but each was provided with an iron-grated window from which the 
inmates might view their fellow citizens upon the outside who had not the 
misfortune to be burdened with the crime of poverty. Those rooms also pos- 
sessed a small fire-place, while the occupants of the lower cells had to get 
along without tire. On the opposite end from the debtors' prison Avere four 
rooms, two of which were used as sleeping apartments, and the others for 
various purposes. The building was covered on the outside with two-inch 
white oak plank laid on perpendicularly, and framed into the sill and 
upper plate, and pinned on the joists, and then weather-boarded with common 
siding. This Jail was completed according to contract by the middle of Novem- 
ber, 1819, and stands across the alley from the Congregational Church, on the 
northeast corner of Meridian and Oak Streets. Upon the erection of the pres- 
ent Jail the log portion was removed, and the building converted into a dwell- 
ing, which is now (December, 1884,) occupied as the residence of S. L. Jen- 
nings, Esq. 

On the 5th of September, 1826, the Commissioners took into consideration 
the expediency of building a new Court House, and gave public notice that 
sealed proposals would be received at the Auditor's office until the first Mon- 
day in December for furnishing materials for the new structure. In the latter 
month the Commissioners advertised for proposals for 150,000 bricks to be 
delivered near the Court House in Ravenna by the first Monday of March, 1828. 
The contract for the erection of the building was finally let to Zenas Kent in 
the spring of 1828, and on the 11th of February, 1830, it was completed and 
accepted by the Commissioners, having cost in full about $7,000. It was a 
long, two-story brick building of the Grecian Temple order, six wooden col- 
umns on the front upholding a projecting roof, which was surmounted by a 
cupola. The county offices were located in the lower story, while the court- 
room is the same one now occupied. In the erection of the new Court House 
about twenty feet were cut off the front part of the old one to make room for 
the more modern structure. 

The present two-story stone Jail on the public square bad its inception 
June 13, 1836, when the Commissioners concluded to take the necessary meas- 
ures toward the erection of a new Jail, and bids were ordered to be advertised 
for in the county papers. The plan of the Jail, adopted September 6, 1836, 
was drawn by Mr. Medbury, Warden of the Ohio Penitentiary, while the small 
residence adjoining it on the west was an after consideration, added to the 
plans by John N. Skinner, the Recorder, and Samuel Foljambe, the Auditor. 
On the 20th of October, 1836, the bid of Ebenezer Rawson was accepted, but 
it was not until the 8th of December following that the contract was let to 
Rawson, for the sum of $9,100. Toward the completion of the building a dis- 
agreement arose between the contractor and the Commissioners as to the proper 



320 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

remuneration for certain work needed on the Jail, which the specifications did 
not expressly stipulate. The matter was left to a board of arbitration, which 
on the 16th of July, 1839, decided that Rawson should put in certain extras 
and receive $284.68 over and above the original contract price of the Jail. 
Rawson was evidently dissatisfied with the decision, for he neglected to f alfiU 
its terms, and the building was finally comj)leted, in May, 1840, by William 
Stinaff, whom the Commissioners employed to carry out the decision of the 
arbitration. The building has fully answered the purposes for which it was 
erected, but its location for many reasons is objectionable, and it is only a 
question of a few years when it will be replaced by a more modern one, 
located on a more eligible site. On the 13th of October, 1856, the Commis- 
sioners purchased of John G. DeWolf Lot 58, upon which the engine house 
now stands, for $1,500; and July 13, 1857, the legal right to the public alley, 
which originally ran east and west in the rear of the Court House, was obtained, 
and the alley became the property of the county. 

The elegant and commodious Court House now adorning the public square 
in Ravenna, was built by authority of a special act of the Legislature passed 
March 11, 1881, " to authorize the Commissioners of Portage County to build 
a fire proof addition and to remodel and repair the present Court House in said 
county and to issue bonds therefor.'' The design of the building was pre- 
pared by Samuel W. Lane, Esq., of Cleveland, Ohio, and the contract for the 
erection of the new structure and remodeling the old one was awarded to Mr. 
P. B. Carpenter, of Conneautville, Penn., in June, 1881, for the sum of $32,- 
226, but subsequent changes in the specifications ran the cost up to $39,622.90. 
The new building was completed and occupied in September, 1882, and the 
old portion subsequently remodeled and finished. The following figures are 
an authentic estimate of the original cost of the Court House: Contractor, 
$39,622.90; architect's labor, $1,540; steam-heating apparatus, $4,600; vaults, 
$619.35; furniture, $3,815; clock, $1,250; grates and mantels, $435; gas fix- 
tures, $340.22; carpets for court room, $293.13; stone pavement in front of 
Court House, $444; total cost, $52,959.60. It is a handsome brick structure, 
two stories and a half in height, with a lofty mansard roof (making the build- 
ing more than three stories high), and with its artistic stone trimmings, both 
modern in design and finish, will favorably compare with the best county 
buildings of the State. A fine clock occupies the tower, and a large figure 
of justice surmounts the dome. At the main entrance is a substantial 
stone portico, upheld by six handsome stone pillars, adding much to the 
beauty of the front view of the building. On the first floor are the offices 
of the Recorder, Treasurer, Auditor, Commissioners, Sheriff, Prosecuting 
Attorney and Surveyor; and on the second floor those of the Probate Judge 
and Clerk, also the court room and jury rooms. The whole interior is hand- 
somely finished in black walnut and butternut, and the stairways partly in 
cherry, while the large, well-lighted offices, furnished in black walnut, and 
possessing fire-proof vaults, where the valuable records are absolutely safe 
fl'om destruction, harmonize thoroughly with the progressive spirit of the 
age. The halls and stairways are wide, and the ceilings high and airy, while 
a general air of utility and comfort pervades throughout the building. 

Prison Bounds. — Upon the establishment of the American Government, 
many of the laws previously existing under English rule were partly or wholly 
retained on the statute books of the young Republic. Imprisonment for debt 
was one of those relics of barbarism which existed for seventy-five years after 
the Declaration of Independence. This law was an outrage upon honest pov- 
erty, and the cause of untold misery to hundreds of struggling pioneer families. 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 321 

The prisoner confined for debt, upon giving good security to his creditors, was 
allowed his freedom inside of a certain defined limit surrounding the Jail 
known as the "prison bounds," but by crossing the established line he forfeited 
even this small grain of liberty. In 1799 a law was enacted by the Terri- 
torial Assembly establishing 200 yards as the dimensions of the prison bounds. 
This was increased in 1800 to 440 yards, but reduced in 1805 to 400. In 1821 
the village or town limits became the boundary line, and in 1833 the "bounds" 
were made co-extensive with the county. Thus they remained until the adop- 
tion of the Constitution of 1851, when the law having almost become a "dead 
letter," was expunged from the statutes of Ohio. At the April term of the 
Court of Common Pleas of Portage County, in 1809, the Court assigned the 
following prison bounds: "Beginning at a stake and stones eleven chains 
north, forty-five degrees east from said prison, thence south twenty chains; 
thence west fifteen chains; thence north twenty chains; thence east fifteen 
chains to the first bounds." The action of the Court was in conformity with 
the then existing State law; but with the progress of civilization all such laws 
become obnoxious to the spirit of humanity which true civilization engenders, 
and therefore give way to a more just and enlightened policy. 

County Infirmary. — Throughout the pioneer days of Portage County each 
township supported its own poor, but finally this duty devolved upon the county, 
and the indigent were "farmed out" to those who would keep them the cheap- 
est. This method did not prove very satisfactory, as the unfortunate poor 
were in many cases treated badly. It was finally decided by the Commission- 
ers to establish a county farm where the poor could be collectively supported, 
and at the annual election held in April, 1839, the citizens of Portage voted 
in favor of the proposed institution. The Commissioners advertised at once 
for a cultivated farm of from 125 to 200 acres on which to erect a "County 
Poor House," and on the 29th of April accepted the proposal of David Mcin- 
tosh, to sell them his farm in Shalersville Township, consisting of 162 acres 
of land, in Lots Nos. 62 and 79, with buildings, stock and farming imple- 
ments thereon, for the sum of $5,000. On the 3d of May following the pur- 
chase was completed and possession given, and on the same date the Commis- 
sioners appointed Darius Lyman, David Mcintosh and Frederick Williams, a 
Board of Directors to take charge of and manage the affairs of said poor 
farm. 

For ten years no additions were made to the farm, which was found ample 
for the necessities of the institution; but the number accepting its benefits 
kept increasing with the growth in population, and in April, 1849, the Com- 
missioners purchased of Erastus Chapman an additional tract of 129.47 acres, 
located in Lots Nos. 63 and 64, for the sum of $2,524.60. In June, 1850, they 
exchanged 56.41 acres of land in Lot No. 62, being the north part of the 
original farm, with Noble Haven for the same amount in Lot No. 61, adjoining 
the farm on the south. The buildings finally became inadequate, and a new 
one was regarded as a necessity, therefore, in April, 1858, the Commissioners 
advertised for bids to erect a new brick Infirmary building. The plans of H. 
N. Bostwick, Esq., were adopted, and in May the contract was let to Samuel 
H. Bloomer, Abraham Bloomer, Elisha Brigham and J. S. Brigham, for the 
sum of $4,988, the building to be completed by the 25th of November, 1858. 
This structure, together with the frame buildings standing there when the 
farm was purchased, served the purposes of the institution for about fourteen 
years, but on the 8th of February, 1872, the contracts for an additional wing 
to the main Infirmary building were let as follows: The masonry, brick work, 
etc., to Messrs. Brigham & Jennings, for the sum of $5,400, and the carpeu- 



322 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

tering, painting, glazing, etc., to Johnson & Babcock for $4,588. The addi- 
tion was completed in the fall of 1872, but extras ran the cost a good deal 
above the original contract price. Brigham & Jennings were paid in Novem 
ber, 1872, $1,091.59 for flagging and repairs; while Peter Martin, of Cleve- 
land, received $4,000 for putting in the heating and ventilating apparatus, 
making the total expense of the improvements carried out in 1872 over $15,- 
000. The main Infirmary building is an L shaped brick structure, two and a 
half stories high, but a portion of the original building purchased with the 
farm is yet standing and in use. The farms now contain about 300 acres of 
first-class land, while the institution is self-supporting, and pays a good inter- 
est on the capital invested, besides having furnished through the passing years 
a comfortable home for hundreds of unfortunate poor. 

Political Statistics. — The political history of Portage County, even if 
written correctly and devoid of prejudice, would be of very little utility to the 
average reader, and when we take into consideration the utter impossibility of 
accomplishing such a task, we think it best, for the sake of historical truth, to 
illustrate the county's political complexion by simply giving the vote it cast 
for each Gubernatorial candidate since 1808, together with that polled in a 
few of the Presidential contests. It may, however, be of some interest to the 
present and future generations to know who the candidates for the several 
county offices were at the first election, held June 8, 1808, also the names of 
the voters at that election. The polling place was at the house of Benjamin 
Tappan, which stood where Marcus Heath's residence now stands, east of 
Ravenna. Eighty -seven votes were cast, distributed as follows: For Commis- 
sioners, Abel Sabin, of Randolph, 86; Joel Gaylord, of Hudson, 84; Lewis 
Day, of Deerfield, 49; Elias Harmon, of Mantua, 42. For Sheriff, Alva Day, 
of Deerfield, 47; John Campbell, of Charlestown, 38 (these two gentlemen 
were again the candidates for Sheriff in October, 1808, with the following 
result: Alva Day, 151; John Campbell, 140). For Coroner, Lewis Day, of 
Deerfield, 38; Samuel Andrews, of Rootstown, 31; David Root, of Rootstown, 
14. All of the successful candidates were supporters of President Jefferson's 
administration. 

The following list of voters at the election of June 8, 1808, together with 
the present names of the townships in which they then resided, were copied 
from the returns made at that time, and are therefore reliable. John Campbell 
and Abel Sabin, though candidates, did not vote: 
Silas Tinker, Jr., Mantua. Heman Oviatt, Hudson. 

Frederick Caris, Jr., Rootstown. Stephen Upson, Suffield. 

Benjamin Tappan, Ravenna. Horatio Day, Deerfield. 

Frederick Caris, Sr. , Rootstown. Joel Baker, Shalersville. 

John Caris, Rootstown. John Creighton, Ravenna. 

William Chard, Ravenna. David Hudson, Hudson. 

Samuel Bishop, Hudson. Benjamin Whedon, Hudson. 

Samuel Simcox, Ravenna. Josiah Ward, Randolph. 

Moses Thompson, Hudson. Isaac Mills, Nelson. 

James Robinson, Northampton. Jonathan Foster, Suffield. 

Aaron Norton, Tallmadge. Oliver Dickinson, Randolph. 

Robert Walker, Ravenna. Delaun Mills, Nelson. 

David Jennings, Ravenna. John Goss, Randolph. 

John Boosinger, Ravenna. John Wright, Sr., Ravenna. 

Daniel Haynes, Ravenna. William Wetmore, Stow. 

John Chapman, Deerfield. Jacob Eatinger, Ravenna. 

Thomas Wright, Ravenna. Jacob Stough, Ravenna. 






/- A 




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Jpy^y'co^o-^T^i^;^ 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 



325 



Arthur Anderson, Ravenna. 
Phillip Willyard, Eootstown. 
Michael Simcox, Ravenna. 
Nathan Chapman, Rootstown. 
John Wright, Jr., Ravenna. 
Abraham Toms, Ravenna. 
Jotham Atwater, Mantua. 
Abel Forsha, Ravenna. 
Samuel Baldwin, Aurora. 
John Ward, Ravenna. 
Jotham Blakesly, Ravenna. 
Samuel McCoy, Rootstown. 
Oliver Mills, Hiram. 
James Laughlin, Deerfield. 
Samuel Moore, Mantua. 
Oliver Forward, Aurora. 
Henry Rogers, Deerfield. 
George W^ilber, Atwater. 
Samuel H. Ferguson, Aurora. 
Beman Chapman, Rootstown. 
Nathan Muzzy, Deerfield. 
Ephriam Chapman, Rootstown. 
Asa Betts, Deerfield. 
Enoch Harrymon, Ravenna. 
Stephen Mason, Deerfield. 
Joseph Murrill, Deerfield. 



Calvin Ward, Randolph. 
Henry Ely, Randolph. 
Jeremiah Sabin, Randolph. 
Ebenezer Goss, Randolph. 
Joseph Harris, Randolph. 
Amzi Atwater, Mantua. 
Joel Gaylord, Hudson. 
Samuel Andrews, Rootstown. 
David Goss, Randolph. 
Elias Harmon, Mantua. 
Lewis Day, Deerfield. 
Seth Day, Deerfield. 
David Root, Rootstown. 
Bazel Windsor, Jr., Mantua. 
Bela Hubbard, Randolph. 
John McWhorter, Ravenna. 
Henry O'Neil, Rootstown. 
William Price, Ravenna. 
Asa D. Keyes, Shalersville. 
Conrad Boosinger, Ravenna. 
Henry Sapp, Ravenna. 
Aaron Weston, Randolph. 
Robert Campbell, Ravenna. 
David Moore, Ravenna. 
Gersham Bostwick, Rootstown. 
Reuben Tupper, SufiQeld. 



Alva Day, Deerfield. 

1808 — Vote for Governor: Samuel Huntington, 118; Thomas Worthington, 
152; Thomas Kirker, 9. Total, 279. 

1810 — Vote for Governor: Return J. Meigs, 250; Thomas Worthington, 
28. Total, 278. 

1812— Vote for Governor: Return J. Meigs, 295; Thomas Scott, 000. 
Total, 295. 

1814 — Vote for Governor: Thomas Worthington, 367; Othniel Looker, 78. 
Total, 445. 

1816 — Vote for Governor: Thomas Worthington, 99; James Dunlap, 000; 
Ethan Allen Brown, 320. Total, 419. 

1818 — Vote for Governor: Ethan Allen Brown, 558; James Dunlap, 1. 
Total, 559. 

1820 — Vote for Governor: Ethan Allen Brown, 679; Jeremiah Mon-ow, 24; 
William Heory Harrison, 28. Total, 731. 

1822— Vote for Governor: Jeremiah Morrow, 833; Allen Trimble, 202; 
William W. Irvin, 16. Total, 1,051. 

1824 — Vote for Governor: Jeremiah Morrow, 60; Allen Trimble, 1,090. 
Total, 1,150. 

1826— Vote for Governor: Allen Trimble, 1,055; John Bigger, 2; Alexan- 
der Campbell, 1; Benjamin Tappan, 7. Total, 1,065. 

1828 — Vote for Governor: Allen Trimble (National Republican), 1,414; 
John W. Campbell (Democrat), 437. Total, 1,851. 

1828 — Vote for President: John Quincv Adams (National Republican), 
2,110; Andrew Jackson (Democrat), 853. Total, 2,963. 

1830 — Vote for Governor: Duncan McArthur (National Republican), 1,562; 
Robert Lucas (Democrat), 625. Total, 2,187. 

18 



326 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

1832 — Vote for Governor: Darius Lyman (Whig and Anti-Mason), 2,084; 
Robert Lucas (Democrat), 1,368. Total, 3,452. 

1832 — Vote for President: Andrew Jackson (Democrat), 1,406; Henry 
Clay (Whig), 2,327; William Wirt (Anti-Mason), 2. Total, 3,735. 

1834 — Vote for Governor: Robert Lucas (Democrat). 2,074; James Find- 
lay (Whig and Anti -Mason), 2,362. Total, 4,436. 

1836 — Vote for Governor: Joseph Vance (Whig and Anti- Mason), 3,056; 
Eli Baldwin (Democrat), 2,525. Total, 5,581. 

1836— Vote for President: William Henry Harrison (Whig), 3,302; Mar- 
tin Van Buren (Democrat), 2,683. Total, 5,985. 

1838 — Vote for Governor: Wilson Shannon (Democrat), 3,051; Joseph 
Vance (Whig and Anti-Mason), 3,252. Total, 6,303. 

1840 — Vote for Governor: Thomas Corwin (Whig), 2,544; Wilson Shan- 
non (Democrat), 2,120. Total, 4,664. 

1840 — Vote for President: William Henry Harrison (Whig), 2,542; Mar- 
tin Van Buren (Democrat), 1,963; James G. Birney (Liberty), 16. Total, 4,503. 

1842 — Vote for Governor: Wilson Shannon (Democrat), 2,181; Thomas 
Corwin (Whig), 2,301; Leicester King (Abolition or Free Soil), 133. Total, 
4,615. 

1844— Vote for Governor: Mordecai Bartley (Whig), 2,467; David Tod 
(Democrat), 2,360; Leicester King (Abolition or Free Soil), 234. Total, 5,061. 

1846— Vote for Governor: William Bebb (Whig), 1,858; David Tod 
(Democrat), 1841 ; Samuel Lewis (Abolition or Free Soil), 163. Totai, 3,862. 

1848— Vote for Governor: John B. Weller (Democrat), 2,234; Seabury 
Ford (Whig), 2,249. Total, 4,483. 

1850 — Vote for Governor: Reuben Wood (Democrat), 2,104; William 
Johnston (Whig), 1,249; Edward Smith (Abolition or Free Soil), 000. Total, 
3,353. 

1851 — Vote for Governor: Reuben Wood (Democrat), 2,198; Samuel F. 
Vinton (Whig), 1,117; Samuel Lewis (Abolition or Free Soil), 787. Total, 
4,102. 

1853— Vote for Governor: William Medill (Democrat), 2,160; Nelson 
Barrere (Whig), 682; Samuel Lewis (Abolition or Free Soil), 1,222. Total, 
4,064. 

1855— Vote for Governor: William Medill (Democrat), 1,861; Salmon P. 
Chase (Republican), 2,660; Allen Trimble (American or Know-nothiug), 10. 
Total, 4,531. 

1857 — Vote for Governor: Salmon P. Chase (Republican), 2,696; Henry 
B. Payne (Democrat), 1,956; Philip Van Trump (Know-nothing), 000. Total, 
4,652. 

1859 — Vote for Governor: William Dennison (Republican), 2,620; Rufus 
P. Ranney (Democrat), 2,038. Total, 4,658. 

1860 — Vote for President: Abraham Lincoln (Republican), 3,065; Stephen 

A. Douglas (Democrat), 1,970; John C. Breckinridge (Democrat), 117; John 
Bell (American or Union), 7. Total, 5,159. 

1861— Vote for Governor: David Tod (Republican), 3,274; Hugh J. Jewett 
(Democrat), 559. Total, 3,833. 

1863— Vote for Governor: John Brough (Republican), 3,677; Clement L. 
Vallandigham (Democrat), 1,788. Total, 5,465. 

1864 — Vote for President: Abraham Lincoln (Republican), 3,478; George 

B. McClellan (Democrat), 1,918. Total, 5,396. 

1865 — Vote for Governor: Jacob D. Cox, (Republican), 2,853; George W. 
Morgan (Democrat), 1,932. Total, 4,785. 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 327 

1867— Vote for Governor: Rutherford B. Hayes (Republican), 3,342; Allen 
G. Tharman (Democrat), 2,817. Total, 5,659. 

1868 — Vote for President: Ulysses S. Grant (Republican), 3,604; Horatio 
Seymour (Democrat), 2,362. Total, 5,966. 

1869— Vote for Governor: Rutherford B. Hayes (Republican), 3,213: 
George H. Pendleton (Democrat), 2,241. Total, 5,454. 

1871— Vote for Governor: Edward F. Noyes (Republican), 2,970; George 
W. McCook (Democrat), 2,139; Gideon T. Stewart (Prohibition), 47. Total, 
5,156. 

1872 — Vote for President: Ulysses S. Gi'ant (Republican), 3,478; Horace 
Greeley (Independent Republican and Democrat), 2,438; James Black (Green- 
back), 27; Charles O'Connor (Independent Democrat), 50. Total, 5,993. 

1873— Vote for Governor: Edward F. Noyes (Republican), 2,285; William 
Allen (Democrat), 2,056; Gideon T. Stewart (Prohibition), 272; Isaac Collins 
(Liberal), 24. Total, 4,637. 

1875 — Vote for Governor: Rutherford B. Hayes (Republican), 3,402; 
William Allen (Democrat), 2,859; Jay Odell (Prohibition), 54. Total, 6,315. 

1876— Vote for President: Samuel J. Tilden (Democrat), 3,006; Ruther- 
ford B. Hayes (Republican), 3,712; G. Clay Smith (Prohibition), 27; Peter 
Cooper (Greenback), 14. Total, 6,759. 

1877— Vote for Governor: William H. West (Republican), 3,031; Richard 
M. Bishop (Democrat), 2,624; Stephen Johnson (Greenback), 287; Henry A. 
Thompson (Prohibition), 69. Total, 6,011. 

1879 — Vote for Governor: Charles Foster (Republican), 3,652; Thomas 
Ewing (Democrat), 3,104; A. Sanders Piatt (Greenback), 114; Gideon T. 
Stewart (Prohibition), 56. Total, 6,926. 

1880— Vote for President: James A. Garfield (Republican), 3,990; Win- 
field Scott Hancock (Democrat), 3,147; James B. Weaver (Greenback), 86; 
Neal Dow, (Prohibition), 36. Total, 7,259. 

1881 — Vote for Governor: Charles Foster (Republican), 3,365; John W. 
Bookwalter (Democrat), 2,548; Abraham R. Ludlow (Prohibition), 116; John 
Seitz (Greenback), 70. Total, 6,099. 

1883 — Vote for Governor: Joseph B. Foraker (Republican), 3,381; George 
Hoadly (Democrat), 3,002; Ferdinand Schumacker (Prohibition), 167; 
Charles Jenkins (Greenback), 41. Total, 6,591. 

1884 — Vote for President: Grover Cleveland (Democrat), 3,273; James G. 
Blaine (Republican), 3,931; John P. St. John (Prohibition), 217; Benjamin 
F. Butler (Greenback Labor Reform), 122. Total, 7,543. 



328 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 



CHAPTER X. 

The Judiciary— Organization of the Court of Common Pleas in Ohio, and 
ITS Subsequent Changes— Pioneer Courts of Portage County— Sessions 
of 1808-09, AND the Juries and Trials of Those Two Years— Anecdotes 
OF Pioneer Justice in This County— Common Pleas Judges— Associate 
Judges— Prosecuting Attorneys— Eiding the Circuit — Pioneer Resi- 
dent AND Visiting Lawyers— Brief Sketches of Leading Members of 
the Bench and Bar— Present Bar of Portage County— The Portage 
County Medical Association. 

AS people often fail to agree respecting their rights and duties, and as they 
sometimes violate their agreements, and even disobey those rules 
and regulations prescribed for their conduct, it is necessary that tribunals 
should be provided to administer justice, to determine and declare the rights 
of disagreeing parties, to investigate and decide whether the laws are observed 
or violated, and to pronounce judgment according to law and the just deserts 
of the citizen. These determinations are called judicial. Upon the organi- 
zation of the Northwest Territory, courts were established and laws promul- 
gated for its proper government. The Court of Common Pleas was the first to 
take shape, being established by the Governor and Judges at Marietta, August 
23, 1788. This Court was first composed of not less than three and not more 
than five Justices, appointed by the Governor in each county, and known as the 
"County Court of Common Fleas," but in 1790 the number of Justices was 
increased to not less than three and not more than seven in each county, and the 
regular sessions were, by the same act, increased from two to four annually. 
When Ohio was admitted into the Union, its judiciary was re-organized. The 
State was divided into circuits, for each of which a Judge, who had to be a 
lawyer in good standing, was elected by the General Assembly, whose term of 
office was seven years. Three Associate Judges were chosen in each county by 
the same body, and for the same length of service, and were usually farmers 
or intelligent business men. The President Judge with the Associates com- 
posed the Court of Common Pleas of each county, and thus this Court remained 
until the re-organization of the judiciary under the Constitution of 1851. 
That instrument provided for the division of the State into judicial districts, 
and each district into subdivisions. It abolished the office of Associate Judge, 
and directed- that in each sub-division one Judge of the Court of Common 
Pleas, who had to be a resident thereof, should be elected by its qualified elec- 
tors. The official term was fixed at five years, and the Legislature reserved 
the power to increase the number of Judges in each subdivision whenever such 
became necessary. 

Prior to the erection of Portage County, all of its judicial business, except- 
ing that transacted by its Justices of the Peace, was done at Warren, the 
county seat of Trumbull County. The first session of the Court of Common 
Pleas in this county left the following record of its preliminary proceedings: 

"State of Ohio, County of Portage, Tuesday, August 23,- 1808. This 
being the day appointed by law for the sitting of the Court of Common Pleas 
for said county, the Court opened, present Calvin Pease, Esq. , President, and 
William Wetmore, Aaron Norton and Amzi Atwater, Esqs., Associate Judges. 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 329 

"The report of Robert Simison, Samuel Hunter and Rezin Beall, Com- 
missioners appointed to fix the seat of justice for the County of Portage, was 
made to the Court, which being read was ordered to be recorded. 

" Ordered that the Court adjourn till 2 o'clock in the afternoon to meet at 
the house of Robert Eaton. 

" Tuesday, 2 o'clock, afternoon, the Court opened pursuant to adjournment, 
present, the same judges as in the morning. 

"The grand jury being called, came to-wit: Ebenezer Pease, Samuel 
Bishop, David Hudson, Robert Bissel, Moses Thompson, Stephen Baldwin, 
Samuel Andrus, Jacob Reed, John Campbell, Wiley Hamilton, Ethelbert 
Baker, Alfred Wolcott, John Hutton, Jeremiah Root and David Abbott. The 
Court appointed David Hudson, Esq., foreman of the grand jury, and the 
jury being sworn and affirmed, were charged by the Court and sent out." 

The act erecting the county designated the house of Benjamin Tappan as 
the place for holding the courts until a seat of justice should be selected; but 
tradition says that when the Court met at the appointed place on Tuesday 
morning, August 23, 1808, Tappan's residence was a smoldering rain, having 
been burned to the ground the previous night, and that the Court organized in 
the open air under the spreading branches of a large tree. The writer cannot 
vouch for the truth or falsity of this pioneer tradition, but it is, however, a 
fact, that after organizing and accepting the report of the Commissioners 
appointed by the Legislature to select the site for the county seat, the Court 
adjourned to meet at Robert Eaton's house in the afternoon of the same day. 
This building, which is yet standing in a good state of preservation, is now 
(January, 1885,) the residence of R. J. Thompson, Esq., and is located about 
two miles and a half southeast of Ravenna. It was utilized by the Common 
Pleas' and Commissioners' Courts until the completion of the first Court House 
in 1810, and is therefore very closely identified with the early history of the 
county. 

The first case that came before the Court at this session was the petition in 
chancery of James Beatty vs. Benjamin Tappan and Benjamin Tappan, Jr , which 
was continued until the succeeding term. The second case was a petition for par- 
tition of Ezekiel Williams, Jr., and others vs. Timothy Burr and others, which 
was also continued to allow notice of said petition to be advertised in the Westeim 
Herald, of Steubenville, Ohio, and the American Mercury, of Hartford, Conn. 
The next business was the appointment of Joel Walter as administrator of 
the estate of Heman Lucas, deceased, of Hudson, with David Hudson, Owen 
Brown and Abraham Thompson, appraisers of said estate. The Court then 
appointed Asa D. Keyes Prosecuting Attorney, which position he filled until 
the close of 1808. John Cochrane and Amzi Atwater, administrators on the 
estate of Solomon Cochrane, were given authority to fulfill the terms of a con- 
tract previously entered into by the deceased, in the sale of fifty acres of land 
to James Nutt. By this time the evening of the first day was fast approaching, 
and, the whisky bottle having circulated pretty freely, some of the audience had 
grown boisterous. The Court thereupon decided to uphold its dignity, which 
the following official item attests: 

State of Ohio, ) 

vs. >• Summary proceeding for contempt. 

Samuel Taylor. ) 
This day came the said Samuel Taylor in custody of the Sheriff, and is set to the 
bar of the Court, to receive the sentence of the law for a contempt this day committed in 
open court, by disorderlj' and contemptuous behavior, of which the said Samuel is con- 
victed on the personal view of the Court, whereupon it is considered by the Court that the 
said Samuel for the contempt aforesaid pay a fine of $5 into the treasury of the County of 
Portage, and the cost of prosecution, and stand committed until sentence is performed. 



330 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

The last business of the first day's proceedings was a cas'e in debt of Zebina 
Wetherbee vs. John Haymaker and George Haymaker, which was continued 
till the next term. The Court then adjourned until the following morning, 
Wednesday, August 24, which was largely ta^en up with probate business and 
suits in debt, the latter being generally continued. The grand jury, however, 
appeared with two indictments against William Simcox, of Franklin Township, 
one for larceny and one for "breach of the Sabbath," after which it was dis- 
charged. The larceny case consisted of an accusation that Wilcox shot a tame 
deer, valued at |3, belonging to David Jennings, of Franklin Township, and 
took the carcass to his home. The following jury was impaneled and tried the 
case: Abraham Thompson, George W. Holcomb, Oliver Forward, William 
Skinner, William Kennedy, Jr., William Price, John Campbell, Frederick 
Caris, William Calhoon, John Whittlesey, Enos Davis and Ephraim B. Hub- 
bard. The accused pleaded not guilty, and though vigorously prosecuted by 
Prosecutor Keyes, he was so found by the jury, and discharged from custody. 
The second charge against Simcox was, that on the 15th of June, 1808, he "wick- 
edly and maliciously interrupted, molested and disturbed the religious society 
of said Franklin Township, while meeting, assembled and returning from 
divine worship, by sporting and hunting game with guns and hounds." We 
would be apt to conclude upon reading this serious charge, that the defendant 
was what is now commonly known as a " bad man,'' but those were the days 
when any deviation from the Puritanical ideas of the majority of the first set- 
tlers, was looked upon as a heinous crime. Simcox pleaded guilty to the charge 
of Sabbath breaking, and was fined $1.50 and costs, the latter amounting to 
$5. This closed the first session of the Court of Common Pleas of Portage 
County. 

On the 27th of December, 1808, the second session of the Court of Com- 
mon Pleas opened, with William Wetmore, Aaron Norton and Amzi Atwater, 
Associate Judges, on the bench, and lasted three days. The grand jury 
called at this term was composed of the following pioneers: David Daniels, 
Ira Morse, David Jennings, Amos Lusk (foreman), Moses Pond, John Red- 
ding, Titus Wetmore, George Darrow, Sr., Nathan Moore, George Taylor, 
Enoch Judson, Caleb Wetmore, David Hudson, Jeremiah Root and Stephen 
Mason. It found but one indictment, viz. : Against John Boosinger, for 
assault, who acknowledged his guilt, and was fined $4 and costs, the whole 
coming to $9.21. The three days were principally taken up in probate busi- 
ness, cases of debt, petitions in chancery and partition, most of the suits being 
continued until the following term. 

The proceedings in the Court of Common Pleas during the second year 
were almost a repetition of the first, though breaches of the peace became 
more numerous as the population increased, and at every session there were 
more or less cases tried in which muscular development had attempted to 
invade the rights of the law by settling disputes in the old-fashioned way of 
personal combat. The April term, 1809, was held by the three Associates who 
presided at the previous December sitting, with Thomas D. Webb as Prosecut- 
ing Attorney. The grand jurors called at this session were Elias Harmon 
(foreman), James Carter, Gersham Bostwick, Owen Brown, Hiram Roundy, 
Nathan Sears, Ebenezer Goss, Bela Hubbard, David Waller, Gersham Jud- 
son, James M. Hendry (now spelled Henry), Stephen Upson, Timothy Bishop, 
Jacob Reed and David Root. Indictments were returned against Epaphrodi- 
tus Stiles and John McManus for assault and battery. The term lasted four 
days, from the 25th to the 28th inclusive, and the only petit jury empaneled 
were as follows: Pascal R. Mcintosh, Oliver Dickinson, Oliver C. Dickinson, 



HISTORY OF rORTAGE COUNTY. 331 

Benjamin Oviatt, Mahlon Calvin, Ezra Wyatt, Daniel Stow, Thomas Vanhy- 
ning, Silas Waller, Asher Ely, David Baldwin and Stephen Cotton, before 
whom James Walker was tried for an assault upon Robert Campbell, and con- 
victed. 

The next session was held August 22, 23 and 24, 1809, by Hon. Calvin 
Pease and the three Associates of the previous terms. The grand jury was 
composed of the following citizens: Gamaliel Kent, Isaac Mills, John 
Rudolph, David Jennings, Arthur Anderson, Ebenezer Bostwick, James Laugh- 
lin, Aaron Miller, David Hudson (foreman), Jonathan Sprague, Raphael Hurl- 
but, George Darrow, Jr., Amos Lusk, Lewie Ely and Samuel Bishop. The 
first petit jury of this term tried a non-assumpsit case of John Wright, Sr., 
vs. Frederick Caris, and decided in favor of the plaintiff. The jurors of this 
panel were Jeremiah Root, David Pond, Moses Smith, Anson Beman, Mun 
Day, Adam Vance, Henry Vanhyning, Elisha Perkins, Reuben Parker, Henry 
Bryan, William Neil and Joseph Fisher. The second petit jury tried and 
convicted John McManus for assault and battery. Its members were Reuben 
Parker, Joseph Fisher, Henry Vanhyning, Frederick Caris, Jr., Jeremiah 
Root, William Neil, David Pond, Elisha Perkins, Moses Smith, Anson Beman, 
Mun Day and Henry Bryan. The third jury trial of this session was a no7i- 
assumpsit suit of Caleb Wetmore vs. Elijah Wadsworth, the jury being the 
•same as in the second panel, excepting John Wright, Jr., and Adam Vance 
replacing Moses Smith and Anson Beman. The case was decided in favor of 
the defendant. The fourth jury of this term was also the saoje as the second, 
excepting Adam Vance instead of Anson Beman, and tried a non-assumpsit 
suit of James Arbuckle for the use of John Keating vs. William and Titus 
Wetmore, which was decided in favor of the plaintiff. 

The last session of the second year was held December 26, 27 and 28, 1809, 
the same President and Associate Judges being on the bench, except Judge 
Wetmore, who was appointed Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas, and the 
vacancy on the bench was not filled until the meeting of the Legislature in 
1810. The grand jurors of this session were Lewis Ely, Robert Campbell, 
John Blair, Ebenezer Sheldon, Josiah Starr, Joseph Darrow, Heman Oviatt, 
(foreman), James Robinson, Josiah Mix, Henry Chittenden, Champlin Minard, 
Benjamin Stow, Erastus Carter, John Oviatt and Jeremiah Root. Indictments 
were found against John Bolles, David Wright and Philip W^ard, for assault 
and battery; against Joshua King for selling liquors in less quantities than 
allowed by his license; and against Isaac Bacon for a breach of the revenue 
laws. The case against David Wright for an assault upon Jacob Vanhyning, 
was tried before the following jury: Joel Walter, Stephen Cotton, Elisha 
Sears, John McWhorter, Gideon Chittenden, Jacob Reed, Erastus Skinner, 
Joel Gaylord, David Root, Wiley Hamilton, Ebenezer Bostwick and Arthur 
Anderson, who found Wright guilty as chai'ged in the indictment. We have 
now run through the first two years of the record of the Court of Common 
Pleas, and given a brief outline of its proceedings. In giving the lists of the 
several juries, the sole object the writer has in view is to furnish the reader 
with the names of those pioneers M'ho took the most active part in the judicial 
affairs of Portage County during the earlier years of its history. 

The pioneers troubled their brains very little about the written code, but 
were a law unto themselves. As good illustrations of their peculiar mode of 
administering justice in their inferior courts, the following cases will serve 
our purpose. A man in Randolph Township was arrested for breaking the 
Sabbath, found guilty and sentenced to imprisonment in Jail for six hours. 
But the joke of it was there was no Jail, and the prisoner wa,s set free and the 



332 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

complainant ordered by the Court to pay the costs of the trial. Another amus- 
ing case was tried July 8, 1815, before Elijah Alford, the first Justice of the 
Peace of Windham Township, being that of Hiram Messenger vs. Thatcher 
F. Conant, "for the value of an otter's hole." In going to Garrett's Mill, 
Messenger tracked an otter into its hole, and, as he supposed, fastened him in 
with a stone, and then went on his way rejoicing. Meeting Conant he sold 
his claim to him for $3. The purchaser had no trouble in finding the hole, 
but if it ever had contained an otter the animal had vanished, and Conant, 
therefore, refused to pay for the empty hole. Messenger sued him before 
Squire Alford, and recovered judgment for the $3. Conant thereupon gave 
notice of appeal, which the Squire prevented by paying Messenger the money, 
and remitting the costs of the suit. Thus the case was settled to the entire 
satisfaction of both parties, and the only loser in the affair was the good- 
natured Justice of the Peace, who took this means of preventing an expensive 
lawsuit, and at the same time upholding the justice of his decision. 

Common Pleas Judges. — Calvin Pease, from August, 1808 to December, 1809; 
Benjamin Ruggles, January, 1810, to October, 1815; George Tod, October, 1815, 
to February, 1830; Reuben Wood, February, 1830, to February, 1833; Mathew 
Birchard, February, 1833, to January, 1837; Van R. Humphrey, January, 1837, 
to February, 1844; Eben Newton, February, 1844, to January, 1847; Ben- 
jamin F. Wade, February, 1847, to March, 1851; George Bliss, April, 1851, to 
January, 1852. As previously mentioned in this chapter, the Judges of the 
Court of Common Pleas, prior to 1851, were chosen by the General Assembly 
of the State, but the constitution framed that year abolished the Associate 
Judgeship, and divided the State into judicial districts and the districts into 
subdivisions. The counties of Portage, Trumbull and Mahoning then 
became the second subdivision of the Ninth Judicial District, and have so 
remained up to the present. The Judges elected by the people in this subdi- 
vision since that time, together with their respective terms of service are 
as follows: Luther Day, from February, 1852, to February, 1857; Benjamin F. 
Hoffman, February, 1857, to February, 1862; Charles E. Glidden, February, 
1862, to January, 1867; George M. Tuttle, January, 1867, to January, 1872; 
Philo B. Conant, (extra Judge), October, 1868, to October, 1878; Charles E. 
Glidden, February, 1872, to February, 1877; Frank G. Servis, elected in the 
fall of 1876, died in March, 1877; Ezra B. Taylor, appointed March 16, 1877 
(vice Servis, deceased), and elected in October, 1877, resigned in September, 
1880; William T. Spear, October, 1878, second term expires in October, 1888; 
George F. Arrel, appointed September 20, 1880 {vice Taylor, resigned), 
elected in the fall of 1881, term expires in February, 1887. 

Associate Judges. — William Wetmore, February, 1808, resigned in 
December, 1809; Aaron Norton, from February, 1808, to February, 1815; Amzi 
Atwater, February, 1808, to February, 1815; Samuel Forward {vice Wetmore 
resigned), February, 1810, to February, 1815; Elias Harmon, February, 1815, 
to February, 1836; Samuel King, Jr., February, 1815, to February, 1820; Alva 
Day, February, 1815, to February, 1829; Augustus Baldwin, February, 1820, 
to February, 1827; Elkanah Richardson, February, 1827, to February, 1834; 
George B. DePeyster, February, 1829, to February, 1836; Charles Sumner, 
February, 1834, to February, 1840; Ira Selby, February, 1836, to February, 
1843; Joseph Lewis, February, 1836, to February, 1843; Jeremiah Moulton, 
March, 1840, to March, 1847; Jonathan Foster, February, 1843, to February, 
1850; Thomas B. Selby, February, 1843, to February, 1850; Isaac Swift, 
March, 1847, to January, 1852; Isaac Bray ton, February, 1850, to January, 
1852; Luther L. Brown, March, 1850, to January, 1852. 



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HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 337 

Prosecuting Attorneys. — Asa D. Keyes, 1808; Thomas D. Webb, from 
January, 1809, to April, 1810; Benjamin Tappan, 1810; Thomas D. Webb, 
1811, to 1812; Peter Hitchcock, 1813, to 1814; Calvin Pease, 1815, to Febru- 
ary, 1816; Darius Lyman, March, 1816, to 1818; Jonathan Sloane, 1819; 
Darius Lyman, 1820, to 1828; Lucius V. Bierce, January, 1829, to January, 
1889; Daniel E. Tilden, January, 1839, to January, 1844; Luther Day, Janu- 
ary, 1844, to January, 1846; Robert F. Paine, January, 1846, to January, 
1848; Luther Day, January, 1848, to January, 1851; Samuel Strawder, Janu- 
ary, 1851, to January, 1856; Ezra B.Taylor, Januai-y, 1856, to January, 1858; 
Joseph D. Horton, January, 1858, to January, 1860; Philo B. Conant, Janu- 
ary, 1860, to January, 1862; Alphonso Hart, January, 1862, to January, 1865; 
Horace H. Willard, January, 1865, to January, 1868; E. L. Webber, Janu- 
ary, 1868, to January, 1870; C. A. Heed, January, 1870, to January, 1874; 
George F. Robinson, January, 1874, to January, 1878; O. S. Ferris, January, 
1878, to January, 1880; Joseph D. Horton, January, 1880, to September, 
1882; John Meharg, September, 1882, to January, 1884; I. T. Siddall, Janu- 
ary, 1884, term expires in January, 1887. 

In the early days of mud roads and log-cabins, the lawyers rode the circuit 
with the Judge, on horseback, from county to county, equipped with the old- 
fashioned leggins and saddle-bags. The party usually had their appointed stop- 
ping places where they were expected, and, on their arrival, the chickens, dried 
apples, maple sugar, corn dodgers and old whisky suffered, while the best story- 
tellers regaled the company with humor and anecdotes. Among the pioneers 
of Portage County were some who possessed a fair knowledge of the law, and 
two at least who were full-fledged lawyers — Benjamin Tappan and Asa D. 
Keyes. Upon the organization of the county, and the selection of Ravenna as 
the seat of justice, lawyers' offices began to make their appearance in the vil- 
lage. The disciples of Blackstone and Kent seem to have alwa3'8 looked upon 
Ravenna as a fruitful field for their profession, for there has been no period 
of its history when it has not contained one or more of the leading attorneys 
of northeastern Ohio. 

Hon. Benjamin Tappan was the first lawyer to locate in Portage County. 
He was born in Massachusetts, in 1773, received a good education in his native 
State, and there read law and was admitted to the bar. In the summer of 
1799 he located in what is now the southeast corner of Ravenna Township, and 
built the first log-cabin in that subdivision. In the summer of 1800 he went 
to Connecticut, and married Miss Nancy Wright, and with his young bride 
returned to his cabin in the primeval forest of this county. In 1803 he was 
chosen to represent the Trumbull district in the Ohio Senate, and served one 
term. The act erecting Portage County designated his house as the temporary 
place for holding the courts of said county, until a seat of justice should be 
selected. By this time he had removed to the second residence built by him, 
which stood on the farm now owned by Marcus Heath, about one mile east of 
Ravenna. His father was the owner of the south division of lots in Ravenna 
Township, and had appointed his son Benjamin as his agent, and as such the 
latter laid out the old town plat of Ravenna, early in 1808, which was sub- 
sequently selected by the State Commissioners for the seat of justice of Port- 
age County. About 1809 Judge Tappan left this county and located at 
Steubenville, though for several years afterward he attended court at Ravenna, 
and was the Prosecuting Attorney in 1810. He became President Judge of 
the Fifth Judicial Circuit, and in 1833 was made United States District Judge. 
His name is widely known as the compiler of " Tappan' s Reports." In 1826 
Judge Tappan was one of four Gubernatorial candidates, yet strange to say 



338 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

received only seven votes in Portage County. In December, 1838, he was 
elected as a Democrat to the United States Senate, Thomas Ewing being his 
Whig opponent, and served until 1845. After a long and useful public career, 
Judge Tappan retired from active life, and died in 1857, at the ripe age of 
eighty-four. 

Asa D. Keyes, whose father, Daniel Keyes, settled in Shalersville Town- 
ship in 1807-08, was, doubtless, the second resident attorney of the county. 
He was a native of Connecticut and a young man of considerable talent but of 
intemperate habits. At the first session of the Court of Common Pleas of 
Portage County, beginning August 23, 1808, Mr. Keyes was appointed Prose- 
cuting Attorney and served in that capacity until the close of the year. Little 
further is known of him, and he must have removed from the county at an 
early day. He once hired a horse of Judge Amzi Atwater to go to AVarren, 
and on his return said to the Judge, that he believed he had changed the 
bridle. " Yes," said Judge Atwater, " and the horse too — that is a better horse 
than I let you have." It was afterward discovered that Keyes, and a Squire 
Tyler, of Hubbard, had been imbibing pretty freely all day, and on getting 
ready to leave Warren were so " full" that each mounted the other's horse, 
and rode home without having the faintest knowledge of the comical blunder. 

Hon. Darius Lyman was the next attorney to open an office in Ravenna. 
He was born in Litchfield County, Conn., July 19, 1789, graduated at Will- 
iams College, in 1810, studied law in Norfolk, Conn., was admitted to prac- 
tice and came to Ravenna in 1814. He was Prosecuting Attorney from 1816 
to 1818, and again from 1820 to 1828, and represented Portage County in the 
Ohio Legislature from 1816 to 1820. From 1828 to 1832 he served in the 
State Senate, and was elected to the same position in 1833 and in 1849, serving 
one term at each period. In 1832 he was the Whig and Anti- Masonic candi- 
date for Governor of Ohio, but was defeated by Robert Lucas, the Democratic 
nominee. He continued in the practice of law at Ravenna until his election 
to the office of Probate Judge in the fall of 1854, in which position he served 
nine years. Judge Lyman was neither an orator nor a brilliant advocate, but 
his love of justice and unswerving integrity gave him influence with Court and 
jury, and made him a formidable competitor. After retiring from the Probate 
Judgeship, in 1864, he removed to Cleveland, where he died about ten years 
ago. He was twice married aud was the father of six children. His eldest son. 
Prof. Darius Lyman, Jr., has served twenty years in the Treasuiy Department 
at Washington, D. C, and a grandson, Henry D. Lyman, has been Second As- 
sistant Postmaster General. 

Hon. Jonathan Sloane settled in Ravenna in 1816, where he continued in 
the practice of his profession until 1837, in which year he retired from active 
life. He was born in Pelham, Mass., in November, 1785, and graduated at 
Williams College in the class of 1812. Soon after graduating he commenced 
reading law in the office of Jonathan Lyman, Esq., of Northampton, Mass., and 
was admitted to the bar in 1816. He then came West, took up his residence 
in Ravenna, and soon gained an honorable position at the bar. He was Pros- 
ecuting Attorned' in 1819, a member of the Legislatvire in 1820-22, was in 
the Ohio Senate 1822-24 and 1826-28, and represented the Fifteenth 
Congressional District in the United States House of Representatives 
from 1833 to 1837. From the commencement of Mr. Sloane'a resi- 
dence in Ravenna, he was the general agent of the Tappan family for 
the sale of their lands in this section, which position he held many years, 
and by means of which he became well and favorably known to most of the 
early settlers, being always lenient and obliging to those who purchased land 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 339 

of him. He took an active part in obtaining the charter of the Pennsylvania 
&'Ohio Canal, and the successful completion of this then important public 
work was greatly due to his influence and efficient efforts in its behalf. At 
the expiration of his second term in Congi-ess he gave up the practice of law. 
and gradually withdrew from business life. He never married, and physical 
infirmities growing upon him, he retired from society many years before his 
death, which occurred April 25, 1854, always relishing, however, the visits of 
his old friends and associates. Mr. Sloaue possessed none of the graces of 
oratory, but during his prime he was a forcible, energetic advocate, and a 
sound and able counsellor, achieving the distinction of being the best Chancery 
lawyer on the Western Reserve. 

Gen. Lucius V. Bierce comes next in the order of time. He was a native 
of Litchfield County, Conn., but came to Ohio when young; graduated from 
the Ohio University at Athens, where he subsequently studied law, and was 
admitted to the bar at Ravenna in September, 1825. Gen. Bierce became quite 
distinguished as a criminal lawyer throughout northern Ohio, and was Prose- 
cuting Attorney of Portage County from 1829 to 1839. He remained in 
Ravenna until October, 1851, at which time he removed to Akron, where he 
followed the practice of his profession until his death, about ten years ago. 
From 1862 to 1864 he represented the Twenty-sixth Senatorial District in the 
Ohio Assembly, and held various other offices. He was twice married, but left 
no children. He devoted considerable time to writing historical sketches of 
the Western Reserve, exhibiting considerable taste and ability in literary 
pursuits. 

At the close of 182o we find but three resident attorneys in what is now 
Portage County, viz. : Darius Lyman, Jonathan Sloane and Lucius V. Bierce. 
But there were a number of visiting attorneys who practiced regularly at this 
bar from the time the county was organized, among the most prominent of 
whom might be mentioned John S. Edwards, Robert S. Parkman, Elderkin 
Potter, Calvin Pease, Thomas D. Webb, Peter Hitchcock, Benjamin Tappan, 
John C. Wright, Elisha Whittlesey, Reuben Wood, Van R. Humphrey, George 
D. Norton, Andrew W. Loomis and a Mr. Metcalf, all of whom won their way 
to high positions. Among later visiting lawyers we find Gregory Powers, D. 
K. Carter, Wyllis Sillman, Samuel W. McClure, Eben Newton, Henry McKin- 
ney and Milton Sutliff. 

William Turner was admitted to the bar in Ravenna in January, 1828, and 
about the same time John Pearson opened an office in the village. Turner was 
a fine classical scholar, and after many years' practice removed to Wooster, 
abandoned the profession and subsequently died in Cleveland. Little is 
remembered of Pearson, who did not remain long in this county. 

William S. C. Otis was also one of the pioneer lawyers of Portage County. 
He came to Ravenna at an early day, and was associated in law practice with 
Hon. Jonathan Sloane, under the firm name of Sloane & Otis. Through legal 
ability Mr. Otis attained to an eminent position at the bar in Portage and 
surrounding counties. He removed to Akron and afterward to Cleveland, and 
became somewhat famous as a railroad lawyer, devoting most of his time to 
that branch of practice. Mr. Otis died in Cleveland a few years ago. A more 
exhaustive sketch of this gentleman will be found among Ravenna Township 
biographies. 

Hon. Rufus P. Spalding was born at West Tisbury, Mass., May 3. 1798, 
graduated at Yale College in 1817, read law in the office of Chief Justice 
Zephaniah Swift, of Connecticut, and was there admitted to practice. In 1820 
he opened an office at Little Rock, Ark., but after remaining there a year and 



340 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

a half, returned East and located at Warren, Trumbull Co., Ohio. He 
continued the practice of his profession at Warren until 1838, when he removed 
to Ravenna, whei'e he soon became recognized as a leading attorney, and 
represented Portage County in the Ohio Legislature from 1839 to 1840. In 
the latter year he removed to Akron, and in 1841-42 seryed another term in 
the Legislature, representing the new county of Summit. The General 
Assembly of 1848-49 elected him a Judge of the Supreme Court of Ohio, for 
the term of seven years, but through the Constitution of 1851 the office became 
elective by the people, and his term thus expired after three years' service. On 
leaving the bench he removed to Cleveland, and in October, 1862, was elected, 
as a Republican, to Congress, re-elected in 1864 and again in 1866. Upon 
the expiration of his third term he returned to the practice of law. He has 
been twice married, three children surviving from the first marriage. Judge 
Spaulding, though yet living in Cleveland, has not been engaged in active 
practice for some years, as he is now (March, 1885,) within two months of 
being eighty-seven years old. As a lawyer and statesman he achieved a wide 
reputation. He possessed in his prime a profound knowledge of the law, 
great power as a debater, and the ability of strongly impressing both courts 
and juries, while his dignified appearance and manner heightened the effect of 
his arguments. 

Hon. Daniel R. Tilden was born in Lebanon, Conn., in November, 1807, 
came to Ohio about 1830, studied law with Rufus P. Spalding at Warren, 
Ohio, and was there admitted to the bar in 1837. The same year he entered 
into partnership with his preceptor, and in 1838 both came to Ravenna, 
opened an office and remained in law practice together until 1839. In 1839-40 
he was a member of the law firm of Sloane & Otis, and from 1839 to 1844 was 
Prosecuting Attorney of this county. About this time he went into partnership 
with John L. Ranney, under the firm name of Tilden & Ranney, which con- 
tinued until his removal to Akron in 1850. He practiced his profession in 
Aki'on until 1852, when he removed to Cleveland. Mr. Tilden was elected to 
Congress from the Portage District in 1842, re-elected in 1844 and served 
until 1847. Soon after settling in Cleveland he was elected Probate Judge, 
and at the close of his present term will have held the position thirty-three 
years. During all the years of Mr. Tilden's legal practice, he sustained the 
reputation of being an able advocate, a good lawyer and an honorable member 
of the profession. As a legislator he was loyal to his own convictions of right, 
and the best interests of his constituents. 

John L. Ranney was born in Blandford, Mass., November 14, 1815, and in 
1824 his father removed with his family from the East, to Freedom Township, 
Portage Co., Ohio. The educational advantages of John L. were limited to 
the common schools, and a brief academic course. He read law in Jefferson, 
Ashtabula County, with his brother Judge R. P. Ranney and Senator B. F. 
Wade. After being admitted to the bar, he settled in Ravenna, and soon after 
formed a partnership with Daniel R. Tilden, under the firm name of Tilden 
& Ranney. This law firm continued business until Mr. Tilden's removal to 
Akron in 1850. Subsequently the firm of Ranney & Taylor was organized, 
and later the law firm of J. L. & H. C. Ranney, which continued until Febru- 
ary 22, 1866, the time of J. L. Ranney' s death. He was the Democratic can- 
didate for Congress in 1858, and was President of the First National Bank of 
Ravenna from its organization to the close of his life. If not so distinguished 
as his brother. Judge Rufus P. , he may be safely classed among the leading 
lawyers of his time in this county. He was a gentleman of high intelligence, 
strict integrity and untiring industry in the prosecution of his professional 
labors. 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 341 

Hou. Luther Day. For biography of this gentleman see personal sketches 
under heading of Ravenna Township. 

Ebenezer Spalding came from Connecticut to Ravenna about 1840, where 
he engaged in the practice of law. He was Clerk of the Court of Common 
Pleas from 1852 to 1855, and subsequently followed his profession until 
November, 1861, when he removed to St. Louis, Mo., where he died in August, 
1866. 

Christopher P. Wolcott located in Ravenna a few years after Ebenezer 
Spaulding, whence he removed to Akron. He became quite a prominent law- 
yer, and was Attorney- General of Ohio from 1856 to 1861. 

Hon. Robert F. Paine studied law with Daniel R. Tilden, was admitted to 
practice, and opened his first office at Garrettsville, whence in March, 1846, he 
came to Ravenna. He represented Portage County in the Ohio Legislature in 
1844-45, and was Prosecuting Attorney in 1846-48. In the latter year he 
removed to Cleveland, where he was subsequently elected Judge of the Court 
of Common Pleas. If not profound, Judge Paine is adroit and successful as 
a jury lawyer, and has won and retained a large practice at the Cleveland bar, 
of which he is still an active member. 

Hon. Ezra B. Taylor was born in Nelson Township, Portage Co., Ohio, 
July 9, 1823. He acquired an academic education, and studied law at Gar- 
rettsville with Hon. Robert F. Paine. After his admission to the bar, in 
August, 1845, he commenced practice in Garrettsville, whence he removed to 
Ravenna in 1847, and for some years was the partner of John L. Ranney. He 
was Prosecuting Attorney in 1856-58, and for many years was recognized as 
one of the leading lawyers of the Portage County bar. He removed to War- 
ren in 1861, was appointed Judge of the Court of Common Pleas, vice Judge 
Servis, deceased, and in October, 1877, elected as his own successor. In Sep- 
tember, 1880, he resigned the Judgeship, and the same fall was elected to 
Congress by the Republican party, and has been twice re-elected, being now 
in his third term. 

Hon. O. P. Brown was born in Onondaga County, N. Y., March 11, 1817, 
and in 1829 removed with his parents to St. Catharines, Canada, and the fol- 
lowing year to Ashtabula County, Ohio. He received a good common school 
education, and taught for several winters to assist him in completing his 
higher scholastic and professional studies. At the age of twenty he entered 
the law office of Wade & Ranney in Jefferson, Ohio, and read with this cele- 
brated firm until 1839, when he was admitted to practice. He immediately 
opened an office in Chardon, Geauga County, and was soon regarded as a ris- 
ing young man of fine promise. While at Chardon he assisted in establishing 
the Jeffersonian Democrat, which he edited one year. In the fall of 1850 he 
ran against Hon. Peter Hitchcock for a seat in the Constitutional Convention, 
and after a splendid campaign was defeated by only 180 votes. In 1852 he 
removed to Ravenna, and formed a partnership with Samuel Strawder. He 
was the first Mayor of Ravenna, elected in 1853, and re-elected the following 
year. He was the State Senator from the Portage -Summit District in 1856- 
58, and in September of the latter year was one of the Republican candidates 
in this district for Congressional nomination, and on the twenty-second ballot 
received exactly half the votes of the convention, but after the next ballot he 
withdrew from the contest. In the fall of 1863 he was elected Probate Judge 
of Portage County, and took his office in February* 1864, but disease had laid 
its heavy hand upon him, and being unable to attend to his official duties, he 
resigned on the 9th of May following, and died June 25, 1864. Judge Brown 
was a genial man of fine natural endowments, and highly gifted as a popular 



342 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

speaker. Rising at times to true eloquence, lie then exhibited great powers of 
persuasion, and produced a marked effect upon his audience. He was at once 
the champion of temperance and freedom, and did all in his power to stem the 
tide of strong drink and abolish the curse of slavery. 

Hon. Philo B. Conant, though yet an active member of the bar, has been 
80 long and prominently associated with it that he can with propriety be 
classed among its later pioneers. He was born in Windham Township, Por- 
tage Co., Ohio, August 3, 1837; studied law with a maternal uncle, Alexander 
Bierce, in Canton, Ohio, and was admitted to the bar in Ravenna in 1850. He 
began practice in 1853, and in 1860-62 served as Prosecuting Attorney. In 
1867 he was elected to the State Senate, but resigned in August, 1868, to 
accept the Common Pleas Judgeship, in which position he served ten years. 
Judge Conant is recognized as a lawyer of good abilities, and both upon the 
bench and at the bar has ever been guided by conscientious convictions of 
justice and right. Upon retiring from the bench in October, 1878, he resumed 
the practice of his profession, in which he has since been actively engaged. 

Joseph D. Horton was born in Randolph Township, Portage Co., Ohio, 
January 3, 1833. For several years he lived in Nelson Township, there 
enjoyed brief academic advantages, and followed teaching a short time. In 
1853 he entered the law office of Ranney & Taylor, in Ravenna, and was 
admitted to the bar in 1855. Soon after his admission the firm of Taylor & 
Horton was formed, and subsequently Judge Luther Day became a member of 
the firm, which as Day, Taylor & Horton, existed three years. The old firm 
of Taylor & Horton was then resumed, but subsequently took in John Meharg, 
who, however, retired from the firm upon taking the office of Clerk of the 
Court of Common Pleas, but which he again entered. in 1882. Mr. Horton 
died September 14, 1882, after a professional experience of twenty-seven years. 
He was Prosecuting Attorney in 1858-60, and again in 1880-82. He was 
Mayor of Ravenna several terms, and dm-ing the early part of the war was 
Military Commissioner of the county. He represented Portage County in the 
Constitutional Convention of 1873, ranking as one of its ablest members. In 
his professional life, Mr. Horton was engaged in nearly every prominent trial, 
and among the members of the bar his conclusions and opinions upon points 
of law were usually accepted as sound. As an illustration of the position he 
occupied in his profession, the following anecdote is told by one who knew 
him well. Some years ago a group of lawyers were discussing a knotty point 
of law, and none could clear it up. "There comes Horton," said Judge Tay- 
lor, "ask him, he knows more law than all of us." This frank expression of 
Judge Taylor's seems to be the opinion of nearly every lawyer who knew Mr. 
Horton, for his assistance was generally sought whenever intricate questions 
were involved. 

Hon. Alphonso Hart came to Ravenna from Trumbull County, Ohio, in 
July, 1854, and with R. E. Craig purchased the Portage Sentinel of Samuel 
D. Harris, Jr., one of the founders of the paper. He conducted the Sentinel 
until the close of 1857, but during this time had read law and was admitted 
to the bar. In 1863 the firm of Hart & Reed was formed and lasted ten years. 
Mr. Hart soon gained a prominent position at the bar, was Prosecuting Attor- 
ney from 1862 to 1865, State Senator in 1864-66, and again represented this 
district in the Ohio Senate in 1872-74. He was the Presidential Elector from 
this Congressional district. in 1872, and cast his vote for Grant and Wilson. 
In 1873 he was elected Lieutenant-Governor of Ohio, and in that year removed 
to Cleveland. He afterward went from Cleveland to Hillsboro, Ohio, where 
he was elected to Congress. During his term in Congress he was recognized 
as a sound thinker and an able, ready debater. 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 343 

Among the attorneys who have been members of this bar in the past are 
Samuel Strawder, Lyman W. Hall, F. W. Tappan, Archibald Servoss, N. L. 
Jeffries, E. Ferry, H. H. Willard, J. W. Tyler, O. W. Strong, Edward P. Bas- 
sett, Lester L. Bond, J. S. Hinman, James Hall, B. F. Curtiss, William Mc- 
Clintock, H. B. Foster, G. F. Brown, L. D. "Woodworth, H. C. Ranney, J. 
Crowell, O. A. Taylor, C. W. Leffingwell, J. G. Hole, A. AV. Beman, H. A. 
Waldo, J. H. Terry, E. L. Webber, S. E. Fink, E. W. Stuart, Will Pound, 

A. A. Thayer, I. N. Frisbee, F. O. Wadsworth, A. J. Dyer, W. L. Marvin, 
H. C Sanford, M. G. Garrison and M. A. Norris. 

The present bar of Portage County embraces twenty -nine attornej's, some 
of whom, however, are not very actively engaged in the profession. The law- 
yers of Ravenna are Philo B. Conant, Michael Stuart, William B. Thomas, 
Cornelius A. Reed, John Meharg, Andrew Jackson, Gideon Seymour, John 
Porter, George F. Robinson, David L. Rockwell, Seth D. Norton, Isaac T. 
Siddall, Bradford Howland, John H. Dussel, Augustus S. Cole, James H. 
Nichols, Isaac H. Phelps, Orion P. Sperry, Arthur E. Seaton, Mark W. Phelps 
and James W. Holcomb. In Kent there are S. P. Wolcott, O. S. Rockwell, 
W. W. Patton and T. W. Peckinpaugh. In Garrettsville we find O. S. FeiTis, 

E. W. Maxson and R. S. W^ebb; and C. D. Ingell, at Mantua Station. 

The Portage County Medical Association was organized at a meeting of 
physicians held at the Gillett House, in Ravenna, in June, 1866. The meet- 
ing was called to order by Dr. Joseph Waggoner, upon which Dr. P. C. Ben- 
nett was elected Chairman, and Dr. F. F. McCreary Secretary. The Chair 
appointed Drs. A. M. Shermao, E. Warrington and O, Ferris a committee to 
draft a constitution and by-laws for the government of the society, which were 
subsequently reported and adopted. The following physicians then signified 
their intention of becoming members of the association viz. : Drs. P. C. Ben- 
nett, A. Belding, J. G. Lewis, O. Ferris, J. W. Shively, Charles E. Poe, G. 

B. Baldwin, George Sadler, A. M. Sherman, P. H. Sawyer, Joseph Waggoner, 

B. F. Pitman, Ezra Rose, E. Warrington, A. W. Alcorn, C. S. Leonard and 

F. F. McCreary. After their names were recorded they at once proceeded to 
the election of oflScers, with the following result: Dr. P. C. Bennett, Presi- 
dent; Dr. A. Belding, Vice President; Di-. F. F. McCreary, Secretary; Dr. C, 
S. Leonard, Treasurer. The several committees were then appointed, and Dr. 
P. Barron admitted as an honorary member, after which the society adjourned 
to meet at Ravenna, January 27, 1867. On that date Drs. Joseph Price, F. C. 
Applegate and W. S. Hough were admitted to membership. Dr. Isaac Swift, 
who located in Ravenna in 1815, was made an honorary member the same day, 
and at the succeeding June meeting Dr. Joseph DeWolf, who opened an office 
in Ravenna in 1810, was also admitted to an honorary membership. 

The officers of the society elected each June since 1866, have been as fol- 
lows: 1867 — Dr. A. Belding, President; Dr. Joseph Price, Vice-President; Dr. 

C. S. Leonard, Secretary; Dr. Charles E. Poe, Treasurer. 1868 — Dr. Joseph 
Price, President; Dr. Joseph Waggoner, Vice-President; Dr. George Sadler, 
Secretary; Dr. O. Ferris, Ti-easurer. 1869 — Dr. Joseph Waggoner, President; 
Dr. A. M. Sherman, Vice-President; Dr. A. W. Alcorn, Secretary; Dr. E. 
Warrington, Treasurer. 1870 — Dr. A. M. Sherman, President; Dr. C. S. 
Leonard, Vice-President; Dr. E. W. Price, Secretary; Dr. P. H. Sawyer, 
Treasurer. 1871 — Dr. C. S. Leonard, President; Dr. G. B. Baldwin, Vice- 
President; Dr. John Ewing, Secretary; Dr. Joseph Waggoner, Treasurer. 
1872— Dr. G. B. Baldwin, President; Dr. P. H. Sawyer, Vice-President; Dr. 
A. W. Alcorn, Secretary; Dr. Joseph Waggoner, Treasurer. 1873 — Dr. E. 
Warrington, President; Dr. F. C. Applegate, Vice-President; Dr. A. W. 



344 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

Alcorn, Secretary; Dr. Joseph Waggoner, Treasurer. 1874 — Dr. F. C. Apple- 
gate, President; Dr. A. W. Alcorn, Vice-President; Dr. H. P. Hugus, Secre- 
tary; Dr. C. S. Leonard, Treasurer. 1875 — Dr. A. W. Alcorn, President: Dr. 
O. Ferris, Vice-President; Dr. H. P. Hugus, Secretary; Dr. C. S. Leonard, 
Treasurer. 1876 — Dr. O. Ferris, President; Dr. George M. Proctor, Vice- 
President; Dr. H. P. Hugus, Secretary; Dr. C. S. Leonai'd, Treasurer. 1877 
— Dr. George M. Proctor, President; Dr. E. W. Price, Vice-President; Dr. H. 
P. Hugus, Secretary; Dr. C. S. Leonard, Treasurer. 1878 — Dr. E. W. Price, 
President; Dr. B. B. Laughead, Vice-President; Dr. H. P. Hugus, Secretary; 
Dr. C. S. Leonard, Treasurer. 1879 — Dr. B. B. Laughead, President; Dr. H. 
P. Hugus, Vice-President; Dr. A. W. Alcorn, Secretary; Dr. C. S. Leonard, 
Treasurer. 1880 — Dr. H. P. Hugus, President; Dr. H. H. Spiers, Vice-Presi- 
dent; Dr. F. R. Morath, Secretary; Dr. George M. Proctor, Treasvirer. 
1881— Dr. H. H. Spiers, President; Dr. W. G. Smith, Vice-President; Dr. H. 
P. Hugus, Secretary; Dr. A. W. Alcorn, Treasurer. 1882— Dr. W. G. Smith, 
President; Dr. A. W. Alcorn, First Vice-President; Dr. Charles A. May, Sec- 
ond Vice-President; Dr. F. E. Morath, Secretary; Dr. H. P. Hugus, Treas- 
urer. 1883 — Dr. Charles A. May, President; Dr. C. S. Leonard, First 
Vice-President; Dr. Joseph Price, Second Vice-President; Dr. Joseph Wag- 
goner, Secretary; Dr. B. B. Laughead, Treasurer. 1884 — Dr. G. O. Frazier, 
President; Dr. A. W. Alcorn, First Vice-President; Dr. George M. Proctor, 
Second Vice-President; Dr. Joseph Waggoner, Seci'etary; Dr. B. B. Laughead, 
Treasurer. 

The principal object of the society is to stimulate and encourage the dis- 
semination of medical science among its members, and so control their mode 
of practice as to bring it within the code of medical ethics usually adopted 
by the societies of the "regular" school of medicine. The most important 
feature of such societies is the interchange of thought and discussion which 
takes place between the members at their meetings. ,Any strange or diflScult 
cases that may have come under their observation are reported and discussed, 
and opinions exchanged as to the most successful mode of treatment to be fol- 
lowed. A well-conducted medical society thus becomes a training school for 
the profession, and the meetings are looked forward to with much pleasure and 
interest. The greater number of the "regular" physicians of this county 
have belonged to the Portage County Medical Association at some period of its 
existence. Some have died, others have removed from the county, and still 
others have severed their connection with the society, and no longer take any 
interest in its doings. The society, however, is continually receiving new 
members, and is now in a flourishing condition. It contains at this writing 
(March, 1885,) twenty-two members, whose names are as follows: Drs. Joseph 
Waggoner, A. W. Alcorn, C. S. Leonard and B. B. Laughead, of Ravenna; 
Drs. A. M. Sherman, J. W. Shively, E. W. Price and J. D. Davis, of Kent; 
Dr. E. Warrington, of Atwater; Drs. Joseph Price, G. O. Frazier and C. S. 
Hiddleson, of Randolph; Drs. W. G. Smith, L. C. Rose, William Jenkins, 
and B. B. Davis, of Palmyra; Dr. F. C. Applegate, of Windham; Dr. Seth 
L. Sloan, of Freedom; Dr. George M. Proctor, of Shalersville; Dr. Charles 
A. May, of Streetsboro; Dr. W. H. McConnell, of Brimfield, and Dr. H. H. 
Spiers, of Edinburg. In 1866 and 1867, the meetings of the society were 
semi-annual, in 1868, quarterly, but ever since the latter year they have been 
monthly, and are productive of great benefit to the members of the association. 





'^^c^J^'%^z^cJ2^ 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 347 



CHAPTER XI. 

The Most Noted Criminal Events in the History of Portage County- 
Trials AND Sentences of the Culprits— The Alleged Crime of John 
McManus— The Murder of Mathews by Aunghst— The Murder of 

CUMMINGS BY BARRIS— THE MURDER OF CATHERINE McKlSSON BY HER 

Brother-in-law, David McKisson— The Heathman Manslaughter Case 
— Alanson Baldwin Stabbed to Death by His Nephew, Lemuel W. 
Price— Attempted Killing of Prentiss by Flower— The Shorts-Wil- 
son Shooting— The Murder of John Khodenbaugh by Jack Cooper 
AND Joel Beery— Harriet Musson Murdered by Wilson S. Roof- 
Shooting OF Alfred L. Harris by His Father- The Kelso-Montague 
Case— The Newell-Roberts Affair. 

ALL organized communities, it matters not what may be their geographical 
location or their general moral and religious status, have criminal rec- 
ords, some of which are replete with deeds of violence and bloodshed, while 
others are not quite so bad. There are many facts of a criminal character of 
such importance belonging to the legitimate history of Portage County, that 
they cannot with historical propriety be left out of this work. It is not the 
intention of the writer to give a record of all the deeds of a criminal nature 
that have been committed in this county, but only those where life was taken, 
or where the culprit was tried for murder or intent to commit that crime. 

The first murder trial that occurred in Portage County took place at the 
October term of the Coiu't of Common Pleas, in 1813, whereof Hon. Benjamin 
Ruggles was President Judge, and Aaron Norton, Amzi Atwater and Samuel 
Forward, Associates. John McManus was the defendant in this case, being 
indicted for the murder of Betsy McManus, his wife, and lived on what was 
then and since known as the Bell lot, in Ravenna Township. The indictment 
charged that McManus assaulted his wife while she was lying in bed, soon after 
the birth of a child, and struck her with a boot- jack, breaking the shoulder- 
blade and one of the ribs upon the right side, making a wound eight inches 
long and six inches wide, and that he also kicked her. The injuries were in- 
flicted on the 12th of May, 1813, and the woman died upon the 27th of the 
same month. Benjamin Whedon was the foreman of the grand jury finding 
the indictment. The following are the names of the jurors before whom the 
case was tried: Gipson McDaniels, Jr., Palmyra; Isaac Osmun, Boston; Paul 
Williams, Portage; James McCormick, Springfield; Asher Gurley, Rootstown; 
W^illiam Sprague, Tallmadge; Theophilus Anthony, Atwater; George Walker, 
Hudson; Jonathan Foster, Mantua; Robert Taylor and David W'ay, SuflSeld; 
William Price, Ravenna. The case was conducted by Peter Hitchcock as 
Prosecuting Attorney, and by Benjamin Tappan and John C. Wright for the 
defense. After a protracted and exciting trial, the defense claiming that the 
woman died of child-bed fever, the accused was acquitted of the charge of 
murder, and discharged. McManus is described as a quarrelsome man, who 
was perpetually in trouble, and indicted for assault and battery several times. 
He was a volunteer in the war of 1812, and from ailments contracted in that 
service died in 1814 or 1815. 

The first premeditated murder in this county was the killing of Epaphras 
Mathews by Henry Aunghst, August 20, 1814. Capt. Waller, of Palmyra 



348 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

Township, while on his way to Ravenna, discovered the body of a man lying 
behind a log, in the woods, near the schoolhouse now standing on the corners 
of the Charlestown and Edinburg roads, a mile and a quarter east of Ra- 
venna. The body proved to be that of Epaphras Mathews, a peddler, of 
Pittsburgh, Penn. An investigation proved that Mathews was last seen at the 
tavern at Campbellsport, on the 20th of A-Ugust, and on the same day by a 
pax'ty grinding scythes in front of the present residence of Richard J. Thomp- 
son. It was noticed that a man was traveling with him, and to this man sus- 
picion attached as the murderer. On the night of August 19, Mathews and the 
strange man, who afterward proved to be Henry Aunghst, stayed at the tavern 
of Jabez Gilbert, in Palmyra. Taking these facts as a starting point, Robert 
Eaton and Lewis Ely started in pursuit of the murderer, whom they followed 
about a month, and arrested in a blacksmith shop in Center County, Penn. 
They were paid by the county $222.87 for their services and damages inflicted 
upon their horses in apprehending and bringing the culprit back to Ravenna. 
Mr. Ely was also paid the $100 reward which had been offered for the capture 
of Aunghst, and Abraham Reed was paid $28.50 for eight days spent in hunt- 
ing for the murderer. The meshes of the inevitable fatality surrounding a 
murderer seemed woven about Aunghst, and without any of the modern resources 
for tracing a great criminal, his pursuers at once struck his trail, and steadily 
followed him until their pursuit culminated in his capture. 

Some weeks prior to the murder, Mathews and Aunghst left Pittsburgh in 
company, and traveled together until the hour of the murder. What pretext 
Aunghst gave to his victim is unknown, but upon his confession he stated that 
his purpose was to effect a robbery of his friend and companion. At first his 
plan was to seize and bind Mathews to a tree in the woods, rob him and flee, 
but chance, or destiny, fi-ustrated the. purpose in each instance. Once, when 
in the woods near Poland, when a suitable moment seemed to have arrived, 
Deacon Sacket, of Tallmadge, traveling with his wife, came upon them. The 
Deacon knew Mathews well, and the meeting was an agreeable one between 
the two friends, and formed an important link in the chain of evidence against 
the murderer, as Deacon Sacket afterward visited Aunghst in jail and recog- 
nized him as the man he saw with Mathews in the woods near Poland. At 
times on their travels, when going into a village, Aunghst would take some 
goods and visit a few of the houses making sales, giving the money up to 
Mathews. The idea of murdering Mathews, Aunghst stated, first occurred to 
him about the time they reached Campbellsport. So many times had various 
plans of robbery been frustrated, that, grown desperate, when this suggested 
itself he acted upon it at the first opportunity. The murder was committed 
with a blue beech fence stake or club, which the murderer purloined from the 
premises of Gen. John Campbell, at the *' Port." Coming to the spot where 
the murder was committed, he dealt his victim a vigorous blow with the club. 
Seeing at once he had given his victim a death-blow, he seized the body, threw 
it over a log and the club after it; next unharnessed the horse and turned it 
loose in the woods, dropping the harness on the thills, rifled the wagon and 
walked off. The money obtained consisted of $270 or thereabouts, in coin, 
which the murderer tied up in a pocket handkerchief. Coming to Ravenna, 
Aunghst stopped at Greer's Tavern, got a drink of whisky and enquired the 
road to Pittsburgh. While at the tavern he placed his handkerchief of coin 
on the bar. He was next seen at Daniel Collins', in Rootstown, and in the 
afternoon of the same day in Randolph, and the next day in Deerfield, enquir- 
ing, from point to point, the road to Pittsburgh. Next we hear of him at 
Canfield, where he bought a horse, paying for it in silver. Next at Petersburg, 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 349 

where he fell in with Gen. Simon Perkins and Judge Calvin Austin. With 
Gen. Perkins he exchanged the greater portion of his silver for paper money, 
stating that he had made it boating on the river, and, intending to buy some 
land near Wooster, had brought the silver, supposing he could do better with 
it than with paper money. Not liking the country as well as he expected, he 
was going back, and had got tired of "lugging the coin " So the General 
gave him all the paper money he had with him for coin. So from point to 
point he was traced on his route to Pittsburgh, and from that city to the forge 
in Center County, where he was arrested. 

At the January term of the Court of Common Pleas, in 1815, the grand 
jury, of which Wiley Hamilton was foreman, found an indictment against 
Aunghst. He was arraigned and plead not guilty, and the case continued. At 
the October term, 1815, Hon. George Tod, Presiding Judge, his counsel, John 
C. Wright, jnoved his discharge in consequence of some error in the indict- 
ment. The Court overruled t^ie motion. The grand jury, however, of which 
Erastus Carter was foreman, found a new indictment, which was certified to 
the Supreme Court, the prisoner electing to be tried by that court. 

At the June term, 1816, he was again indicted, Lewis Day being foremaa 
of the grand jury, and Darius Lyman Prosecuting Attorney. These proceed- 
ings were certified to the Supreme Court. This last indictment proved to be 
sound, and at the September term, 1816, of the Supreme Court, Hon. Ethan 
Allen Brown, of Cincinnati, and Hon. Jessup N. Couch, of Chillicothe, upon 
the bench, the trial was had. Darius Lyman and Benjamin Tappan were the 
attorneys for the State, and John C. A\'righfr for the defense. A motion for 
change of venue to Columbiana County was made, it being alleged that the 
prisoner could not have an impartial trial in this county. The motion was 
overruled, and the trial proceeded. 

The following persons out of a panel of thirty-six were chosen as the jury 
to try the case: Daniel Collins, Rootstown; Simeon Crane, Lyman Hine, Asa 
K. Burroughs, and David Hine, of Shalersville; David Thompson, Ravenna; 
Benoni Thompson, Shalersville; Joseph Lewis, Palmyra; Daniel Burroughs, 
Shalersville; Elijah Burroughs, Shalersville; Frederick Willard, Franklin; J, 
F. Wells, of Ravenna. The trial terminated in finding the accused gailtj 
of murder in the first degree; whereupon the following sentence was pro- 
nounced : 

It is considered, by the Court, that the said Henry Aunghst be taken from hence to the 
Jail of the County of Portage, from whence he came, there to remain until the last Satur- 
day of November next, being the 30th day of November, on which day he be taken to the 
place of execution, between the hours of 12 o'clock at noon and 2 o'clock in the after- 
noon, and there to be hanged by the neck until he be dead. 

Aunghst was from twenty-five to thirty years of age, and was six feet, 
seven inches high. He was a man of powerful muscular organization and 
great strength. He was a foundry-man, or iron- worker, by trade, but natur- 
ally sluggish in his motions and movements. It was told of him that when at 
work in Pittsburgh he would pick up a trip-hammer, weighing 500 pounds, and 
lift it into an old-fashioned Pennsylvania wagon. He was a man of easy dis- 
position. The Jail in which he was confined, was a log one, and the Jailer wae 
in the habit of storing some of his household effects in the prison portion of 
the Jail. One day the Jailer's wife — Mrs. Mason — went into the prison t® 
deposit a spinning-wheel. Aunghst pushed her aside at the door and ran out. 
Mrs. Mason gave the alarm, and immediate pursuit was made. After running 
a short distance Aunghst gave out and turned back to his pursuers, laughing, 
and gave up the race, and, puffing and blowing, came back to the Jail. This 



350 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

old log-building in which Aunghst was confined from the time of capture 
until his execution, was the first Jail erected in the county. The prisoner was 
a German, or a " Pennsylvania Dutchman," and Howard Carter says that 
though he feigned his inability to speak or understand English during the 
trial, could subsequently converse glibly enough with the school children who 
would stand upon a barrel and talk through the iron grating covering the win- 
dow of his cell. 

When the day of execution arrived, November 80, 1816, Asa K. Burroughs 
was Sheriff of the county, and William Coolman, William Frazer and Almon 
Babcock his deputies. A militia force was called out, under command of Col. 
Solomon Day, of Deerfield, as special guard on the occasion. The gallows 
was erected in the center of what is now Sycamore Street, near the corner of 
Spruce, and about 1,800 people witnessed the execution. Upon the gallows 
Aunghst made a partial confession, the substance of which the writer has given 
in the foregoing account. The neck of the wretched man was dislocated, but 
not broken by the drop, and after being pronounced dead, the body was cut 
down and buried near the foot of the scaffold. 

The night after the execution the body was dug up by some parties, who 
doubtless desired it for anatomical purposes. They were discovered soon after 
the body was out of the cofiin, and attempted to flee with it. Hot pui-suit was 
made, and they were forced to drop their prize, and left it on what is now the 
corner of Oak and Meridian Streets. The body was carried to the Court House 
and guarded that night. The next day a party of German residents of the 
town took the body with the intention of sinking it in " Mother Ward's Pond," 
to "keep it from the doctors." William Tappan, an erratic Justice of the 
Peace, pursued this party, and commanded them, in the name of the State of 
Ohio, to return the body. This they did with fear and trembling, and again 
the body lay in state at the Court House, surrounded by the Sheriff's posse. 
It was finally re-interred in the original grave, the coffin being filled with 
lime, and the largest log possible placed upon it. It was ru.mored that the 
doctors got the body after all, but Homer Frazer says: "I was present when 
the grave was opened many years afterward, and the skeleton was found in a 
fair state of preservation." 

The next murder trial on record is that of Abner S. Barris for the murder 
of Nathan Cummings, December 9, 1832. This murder was committed on the 
canal north of the village of Akron, which was then included in Portage 
County, and the victim was a lad who drove the horses for the canal-boat. 
Barris, it seems, had had a quarrel with the helmsman of the boat, and in 
order to have his revenge had secreted himself at the side of the tow-path, with 
a gun, intending to shoot the helmsman. As the boat came up, putting him 
in range of his adversary, Barris took aim and fired, missing his intended 
mark, the shot taking effect upon the left side of the neck of the lad, Nathan 
Cummings, causing almost instant death. Suspicion at once attached to Barris, 
and with but little delay he was arrested and lodged in jail at Ravenna. At 
the session of the March term of the Court of Common Pleas, whereof Matthew 
Birchard was President Judge, and Elkanah Richardson, Elias Harmon and 
George B. De Peyster were Associate Judges, an indictment for murder was 
found against Barris by the grand jury, of which Jonathan Metcalf, of Hud- 
son, was foreman. 

The prisoner, electing to be tried in the Supreme Court, was tried at the 
September term of that court, 1833. Hon. Ebenezer Lane, of Norwalk, pre- 
sided at this term, and Lucius V. Bierce was Prosecuting Attorney. The fol- 
lowing persons constituted the jury before whom the trial took place, having 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 351 

been selected from a panel of thirty-six men: Elisha Garrett, Garrettsville; 
William N. Merwin, Palmyra; Daniel Everett, Nelson; George Y. Wallace, 
Northfield; Lyman Hine, Shalersville; Enoch Drake, Freedom; Caleb 
Atwater and John A. Whittlesey, Atwater; Jonah Hine, Randolph; Abel 
Sabin, Randolph; Merrick Ely, Deerfield; Joseph Lewis, Palmyra. The trial 
was not protracted, and scarcely any witnesses were examined save the hands 
upon the canal-boat. The jury returned a verdict of guilty of murder in the 
second degree. The Court sentenced Barris to the penitentiary for life. 

Barris never, according to the writer's information, denied the commission 
of the murder, and a remark he made when brought to Ravenna will show his 
own conviction on the subject. When tirst brought to town he was taken to 
the Globe Tavern, kept by William Coolman, Esq. Mr. Coolmau recognizing 
Barris, said to him that he was told he was charged with a desperate crime. 
Barris looked at him a moment, drew himself up, and then replied, " It was 
not Abner Barris that did it, it was whisky." Barris was a day laborer, a 
rather passionate man, and about forty years of age. He worked in Ravenna 
by the month about a year, not long previoias to this occurrence. It is under- 
stood that Barris died a number of years ago in the penitentiary. 

TheMcKisson murder was committed in the township of Northfieldin what 
is now Summit County, on Monday, July 24, 1837. The victim of this mur- 
der was Mrs. Catherine MoKisson, the wife of Robert McKisson, a stout, 
robust woman about thirty-five years of age, and weighed 175 pounds. The 
murder was committed about 11 o'clock at night. Robert McKisson, the hus- 
band, was absent from home at the time, and the family consisted of Mrs. 
McKisson and her daughter (by a former marriage), Lucinda Croninger, and 
a man named John Johnson. The two women slept in the same room in dif- 
ferent beds and Johnson up stairs. That night Johnson went to bed about 
dark, the two women between 9 and 10 o'clock. The miirderer entered Mrs. 
McKisson' s room and in doing so aroused Lucinda, who was rendered tempor- 
arily senseless by a blow on the head, but recovered enough to see the last blow 
that was struck her mother. The murderous weapon used was an axe, with which 
the blows were given Mrs. McKisson, one on her back, one on the top of her 
head and one on the side of her head. The mortal wound was upon the right 
side of the head, about two inches deep^ four inches long and half an inch 
wide. Mrs. McKisson lived until the next day — July 25 — and declared the 
murderer to be Samuel McKisson, the father of her husband. Lucinda, the 
daughter (aged about eighteen), was also positive that Samuel McKisson was 
the murderer. Samuel McKisson was arrested the next day by Col, Arthur. 
He was a man about seventy-two years old, and was somewhat crippled in his 
hand. He manifested no trepidation and even went to his son's house and 
kissed the corpse. 

Suspicion was attached to David McKisson, son of Samuel and brother of 
Robert. He was seen in the neighborhood the evening of the murder, and it 
was well known that in the March previous he had a bitter quarrel with his 
brother, and entertained ill will toward his wife. Col. Arthur set out in pur- 
suit of David, and, the Saturday after the murder, arrested him on Turtle Island, 
in Maumee Bay. When found by Col. Arthur be was on a pile driver, and 
was told he must go with the Colonel. He did so without demur, said good- 
bye to some of the workmen, saying, " I shall never see you again," or " I never 
expect to see you again." This was before he was told why Col. Arthur wanted 
him. After being brought back he had an interview with his brother Robert, 
who said to him, "What have you brought us to, David?" "What have I 
brought you to, Robert ? " was the reply. "No, these hands never did that 



352 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

deed." When David first caught sight of Robert he extended his hands and 
cried out, '"Oh, my wronged brother, my poor wronged brother, but you can't 
be righted." David seemed much distressed and said to Robert, " I little 
thought the words we had in the lane would put me in irons, did you?" Fur- 
ther than these things David McKissou never admitted his guilt, but asserted 
his innocence to the end, and upon the scafi^old said "these hands never did 
the deed," 

At the September term of the Court of Common Pleas, 1837 — Hon. Van R. 
Humphrey, President Judge, Charles Sumner, Ira Selby and Joseph Lewis, 
Associates — the grand jury indicted both Samuel and David McKisson for 
murder. Both plead not guilty, and were allowed separate trials. 

The trial of Samuel McKisson commenced on the 4th of October, before the 
following jury: Jonathan Brown, Edward Sumner, Hiram Collins, Ezra S. 
Bassett, Urial Case, David Collins, William N. Merwin, Isaac Ozmun, Bowen 
Blair, Moses Eggleston, Harvey Baldwin and Jonathan Metcalf. A portion 
of the evidence in the case developed the fact that the accused had a quarrel 
with Robert and his wife about a cow, and the evening before the murder, in 
passing the two women at a spring on their premises had uttered a threat to 
them. They wore laughing at the time, and the old man cried out — "Laugh 
on! your laughing will soon be turned to trouble and sorrow." The case was 
conducted by L. V. Bierce and Eben Newton on behalf of the State, and by D. 
K. Carter and Wyllis Silliman for the defense. The jury were out but a short 
time and returned the verdict of not guilty, and the accused was discharged. 

The trial of David McKisson was commenced on the 6th of October, before 
the following jury: Charles Reed, Peter Mason, Silas Comstock, Ashbel Bost- 
wick, William Coolman, Jr., A. K. Hubbard, Miner Merrick, Hugh Judson, 
Jonathan Foster, John N. Whittlesey, Alva Day and Daniel Trowbridge. 
This trial was conducted with spirit and ability by L. V. Bierce and Eben 
Newton on the part of the State, and by R. P. Spalding, David Tod and N. 
M. Humphrey for the accused. It was proven by a witness on this trial, that 
in May previous to the murder, David had said to his sisters Mary and Mar- 
garet, at Cleveland — "I will kill Robert's wife. By G — d I will; and then if 
Lucinda has a mind to have me she may, or she may go to hell." The jury 
found the prisoner guilty of murder in the first degree, and the sentence of the 
Court was pi'onounced that he should be hung upon the 9th day of February, 
1838. The gallows was erected between what is now Prospect and Walnut 
Streets, immediately east of the Disciples' Church, in Ravenna. 

From the Ohio Star' of February 15, 1838, the following account of the 
execution is taken: "On Friday afternoon, the 9th inst. , David McKisson 
was executed for the murder of his brother's wife. From the day of his con- 
viction to the last moment of his existence he declared himself innocent of the 
crime laid to his charge, but his conduct seems more indicative of great deprav- 
ity than of innocence. Until the day previous to his execution, he almost 
uniformly spoke of bis situation in the most indifferent manner, and studi- 
ously banished from his mind all thoughts of his condition. On that day he 
seemed to be somewhat affected at the near approach of death, and on the 
morning of the execution he requested the presence of Elder Stevens. To the 
Elder, who visited him in his cell and accompanied him to the gallows, he 
professed that he had asked for and obtained mercy, and declared that he could 
die in peace. On his way to the place of execution McKisson appeared sol- 
emn and thoughtful, and when he first arrived in sight of the gallows he was 
evidently overcome by the spectacle and swooned away, but recovered himself 
and sat firm and erect on his seat. He then handed to the Rev. Mr. Graham, 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 353 

who also accompanied him, his farewell address which he had prepared, 
remarking that, he intended to read it upon the gallows, but that he should 
not be able to do it. On arriving at the gallows he got out of the carriage with- 
out assistance, requested Elder Stevens and Mr. Graham to accompany him 
upon the scaffold, and then firmly and unhesitatingly ascended the same with 
the Sheriff. He then addressed the spectators in a speech of nearly a half 
hour's length, consisting partly of admonition to the wicked and vicious, and 
partly of an examination of the testimony upon which he was convicted, and 
concluded by declaring his innocence and his preparation for death. He 
then i-equested prayers, and he appeared to respond to the petition which was 
offered. 

" The rope was then adjusted, his arms pinioned, and the cap drawn down 
over his face by the Sheriff, who then descended from the scaffold; as he 
reached the bottom he trod upon the spring which supported the platform, 
and McKisson suddenly dropped about seven feet. Once or twice he shrugged 
his shoulders, and four or five times he drew up his legs, probably in conse- 
quence of the contraction of the muscles, and all was over. After hanging 
until he was dead, his body was taken down and delivered to his brother Rob- 
ert, who took it to Northfield for interment. An immense concourse of peo- 
ple attended to witness the execution. The number is variously estimated at 
from 1,500 to 3,000, of which, we are sorry to say, at least one-eighth part wei'O 
females. What there can be in such a spectacle calculated to excite the curi- 
osity and attract the presence of woman, delicate and sensitive woman, we are 
utterly at a loss to determine." 

Sylvester Heathraan was tried and convicted of manslaughter at the Febru- 
ary term of the Court of Common Pleas in 1838. It appears from the evidence 
that on the day when the disastrous occurrence took place, the defendant, with 
his two brothers, John and Elisha, had been absent from home until nearly 
night. How they were employed was not apparent, but about supper time John 
Heathman (the deceased) returned to the house of his widowed mother much 
intoxicated, and was seated at the table eating his supper when the defendant 
(Sylvester) entered the room. John immediately addressed Sylvester with the 
inquiry, " Where is Elisha? " " He has gone up North." " You are a d — d 
liar! " replied John, " and the truth is not in you; " and upon uttering these 
words he caught up his fork and threw it at the head of his brother, and 
inflicted something of a wound upon his nose. This violence on the part of 
John was followed with a threat that if Sylvester came up stairs that night 
" he would be the death of him" About this time, said the witness, Mary 
Heathman (a sister, and the only person in the room at the time), there was 
heard a noise resembling the rattling of knives and forks near the place where 
John had been seated. At this instant Sylvester seized a chair and with it struck 
John a severe blow on his side. The young woman then left the room for 
the purpose of calling her mother. Upon their entering the room after the 
space of a minute John exclaimed, " Mother, I am going to fall," and imme- 
diately fell to the floor. At this time blood was discovered running from his 
shoes, and the odor of whisky pervaded the room. Sylvester advanced to the 
prostrate body of his brother and exclaimed, " John, brother John!" "You 
may call him now," said the poor mother, " but he cannot hear you, for you 
have killed him." Sylvester then endeavored to procure the attendance of a 
physician, but none arrived before the death of John, which took place about 
thirty minutes after the blow was inflicted. 

Upon examination it was ascertained that the deceased had, in his right 
pantaloons pocket, at the time of the blow, a junk bottle filled with whisky; 



354 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

that the chair had been hurled with so much force as to break the bottle into 
small pieces, one of which had been driven into the groin so as to cut the 
artery, by means of which the deceased bled to death. The cause was argued 
to the jury by Messrs. Bierce and Spalding for the State, and Messrs. Carter 
and Newton for the defendant. A verdict of guilty was returned by the jury, 
and the culprit was sent to the penitentiary for one year. 

The murder of Alanson Baldwin, of Aurora, took place November 8, 1859, 
and was perpetrated by Lemuel W. Price, also a resident of Aurora, and the 
nephew of his victim. Price was a man about sixty, a hard drinker and at 
times uncontrollably passionate. On the morning of the 8th of November he 
became offended with Mr. Baldwin, though causelessly so, and watching his 
opportunity stabbed him with a shoe knife upon the left side of the abdomen, 
the wound going through to the abdominal cavity. Mr. Baldwin died the next 
day after being stabbed. Price was indicted at the December term, 1859. 
The case began before Judge Benjamin F. Hoffman, February 23, 1860, on 
an indictment for murder in the second degree, to which the accused pleaded 
not guilty. The following persons were the jurors in the case: James Hudson, 
Ravenna; C. O. Brainerd, Randolph; O. B. Highley, Windham; C. M. Taylor, 
Hiram; Silas Clark, Nelson; A. B. Bristol, Edinburg; Alden Bissell, Roots- 
town; Nathan Sanford, Edinburg; H. B. Fenton, Randolph; E. Hawley and T. 
Stewart, Paris; D. C. Davis, Palmyra. The theory of the defense consisted of 
two points: insanity, and death from other causes. During the trial Price 
manifested a listless indifference, and received his sentence without emotion. 
The jury were out but forty-five minutes, and returned a verdict of guilty of 
murder in the second degree. The Court sentenced Price On the 25th to the 
penitentiary for life. The case was conducted by P. B. Conant and E. B. 
Taylor for the State. Price being without counsel, the Court assigned him 
Alphonso Hart and O. P. Brown. 

To keep unbroken the chain of this narrative, brief allusion is made to the 
murderous assault made upon J. C. Prentiss, in the store of D. M. Clewell, in 
Ravenna, upon the morning of December 17, 1864, by W. W. Flower, for the 
purpose of effecting a robbery of the safe in the store. The case was tried 
before Judge Charles E. Glidden, at the January term, 1865, of the Court of 
Common Pleas. The jury were in deliberation but ten minutes and returned 
a verdict of guilty of assault with intent to murder. The Court sentenced 
Flower to the penitentiary for seven years, the severest penalty prescribed for 
the crime by the statutes of Ohio. H. H. Willard and Alphonso Hart con- 
ducted the case for the State; Luther Day and P. B. Conant for the accused. 

Upon the 17th of March, 1865, a young woman named Harriet Shorts was 
shot in her mother's house, and died of the wound, by a man who was reported 
to be her husband. This individual, Joseph N. Boor, alias Charles AVilson, 
was arrested for murder, but set up the defense of accidental shooting. The 
accused in the case was indicted at the May term. Trial was not had until the 
September term, when the case was heard before Judge Glidden and the fol- 
lowing jury: G. B. Purdy, William Stedman, R. F. Gardner, W. J. Gardner, 
H. E. Brush, A. J. Shuman, Reuben Brobst, Smith Sanford, A. Chittenden, 
A. H. Barlow, Arvin Olin and H. J. Cannon. The indictment charged that the 
accused, "on the 17th of March, 1865, made an assavilt upon Harriet Shorts 
with a shot-gun, inflicting upon the middle of her back one mortal wound of 
the length of one- half of one inch, and the depth of ten inches, of which mor- 
tal wound she immediately died. This did Joseph N. Boor, alias Wilson, with 
premeditated malice to kill and murder the said Harriet Shorts." After hear- 
ing the testimony and arguments of counsel, the jury returned a verdict of 







;if'- 





' C^5<5 ^-^ '" 




HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. Sbl 

manslaughter. The Court imposed a sentence upon the prisoner of one year 
in the penitentiary from the 19th day of September, 1865. The case was con- 
ducted by H. H. Willard and x\lphonso Hart for the State, and P. B. Conant 
and E. L. Webber on behalf of the accused. 

John Rhodenbaugh, a citizen of Franklin Township, residing upon his farm 
aboiat three miles from the village of Kent, in that township, and about the 
same distance from flavenna, was foully murdered between 7 and 8 o'clock on 
the night of October 24, 1865, while returning home from Kent, and within a 
little more than a mile from his home. The spot chosen for the scene of 
the murder was upon the road leading from Ravenna to Hudson, passing 
between Lakes Brady and Pippin, at a pointwhere the road runs parallel with 
the C. & P. R. R., and within a few rods of the crossing of the latter with the 
carriage road leading to Kent, within sight of the lakes and the farmhouse 
of Joseph Heighton. Mr. Rhodenbaugh had resided in Franklin Township 
over thirteen years, and was well known in this and adjoining counties as a 
public auctioneer. He was fifty-six years of age on the 19th of September, 
1865, and left a family consisting of a wife, four sons and a daughter, all of 
whom were present at the trial. He was fond of company and the social glass, 
and at times drank freely, and was, under such circumstances, apt to discourse 
largely upon his pecuniary means. 

On the afternoon of the day of the murder, commencing at about 3 o'clock, 
we find him at Kent in the company of Cooper, Beery and others, playing 
cards, drinking and the like. Leaving Kelso's billiard and drinking saloon at 
or near 7 o'clock on that evening, soon after drinking with Cooper and Beery, 
he set out for home. Having proceeded two-thirds of the distance alone in an 
open wagon, he was assaulted and dealt two blows upon the head (caus- 
ing instant death) with a heavy club, cut near the scene of the murder. His 
person was robbed of a watch and the money he had with him, supposed to be 
nearly |200. The murder was discovered shortly after its committal by George 
Dewey, a resident of the neighborhood. A Coroner's inquest was held on the 
25th before Justice D. L. Rockwell. Suspicion at once attached to Jack Cooper 
and Joel Beery as the perpetrators of the awful crime. Before 9 o'clock of the 
25th they were arrested near Ravenna by officers R. W. Buck and S. L. Jen- 
nings, and at once incarcerated in Jail. An affidavit was made before Justice 
Coolman against these men, and an examination held upon Saturday, October 
28, occupying from 9 A. M. to 5 P. M. , the result of which was that the accused 
were committed to Jail for trial at the next term of the Court of Common Pleas. 

The grand jury at the January term, 1866, H. M. Lewis, foreman, found 
indictments against Cooper and Beery, alleging the facts previously narrated. 
Being arraigned upon Thursday, February 1, both the accused plead not 
guilty thereto, and separate trials were ordered them. Being unable to pay 
counsel, the Court assigned Messrs. E. B. Taylor, J, D. Horton and P. B. 
Conant as counsel for the defense. On the part of the State H. H. Willard, 
Prosecuting Attorney, assisted by Alphonso Hart, conducted the prosecution. 

The trial of Jack Cooper was commenced on Monday afternoon, February 
5, 1866, before Hon. Charles E. Glidden. The first proceeding in the case 
was the impanneling of the following jury: Franklin H. Snow, Windham; 
E. F. Jagger, Windham; M. P. Higley, Windham; H. S. Johnson, Nelson; 
R. H. Miller, Garrettsville; Charles Goodsell, Nelson; Isaac Stowell, Gar- 
rettsville; Jason Rider, Hiram; Benjamin Waters, Hiram; I. J. Rhodes, Man- 
tua; Edwin Sanford, Mantua; William L. Coe, Edinburg. As soon as the 
jury were sworn, Mr. Willard, on the part of the State, made an elaborate 
statement of the case to the jury, detailing the items of proof it was intended 



358 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

to present. Mr. Taylor, on behalf of the defense, made a general denial of 
the allegations of the State, meeting them all with the simple plea, not guilty. 
For three days the trial progressed with unflagging interest. Thirty-six wit- 
nesses were examined, and elaborate arguments made by both prosecution and 
defense. On the evening of the third day the attorneys' pleas were finished, 
and Judge Glidden delivered his charge to the jury, which retired at 6 
o'clock. Near the hour of midnight the jury returned to the court-room with 
a verdict of murder in the first degree. For a moment Cooper buried his face 
in his hands, and then as if accepting the death-knell of his doom asked to 
speak to some of the jurors. A short time was devoted to this, and the doomed 
man, encircled by stalwart guards, was returned to his prison cell, there to 
meditate and prepare as best he could for the consummation of the dread 
penalty of that law he bo mercilessly violated. 

The trial of Joel Beery as aider and abettor of Jack Cooper in the murder 
of John Rhodenbaugh, the next scene in this drama of crime, was commenced 
before Judge Glidden, on Thursday morning, February 8, 1866. The case waa 
conducted by H. H. Willard and Alphonso Hart for the State, and Ezra B. 
Taylor, J, D. Horton and P. B. Conant for the defense. The prisoner, as he 
sat within the bar, was attended by his mother, and his brother, H. L. Beery. 
The pressure of attendance during the trial was unabated, and the court- room 
was crowded to its very utmost capacity during the entire progress of the case. 
Beery belonged to Portage County, and had many relatives and friends living 
here, while Cooper was a comparative stranger and but little known in this 
section. The following jury was impaneled and sat upon the case: John 
Webber, Deerfield; Caleb Steele, Deerfield; J. V. Mell, Deertield; George 
Webber, Deerfield; Stephen Frazer, Deerfield; John H. Hofiinan, Deerfield; 
J. M. Fry, Deerfield; T. H. Whittemore, Deerfield; John Mansfield, Atwater; 
Curtiss Goddard, Edinburg; George Brigden, Edinburg; Cornelius Mott, 
Deerfield. After the selecting of the jurors was completed, the trial was 
opened by a full statement of the case to the jury by Mr. Hart, on behalf of 
the prosecution, of the State vs. Joel Beery, for aiding and abetting Jack 
Cooper, on the 24th of October, 1865, in murdering John Ehodenbaugh. 
The theory of the defense was then ably presented to the jury by Ezra B. 
Taylor. Nearly fifty witness were examined on this trial, which also lasted 
three days, and untiring efforts were put forth by Beery's counsel to clear him. 
The jury was charged by Judge Glidden on Saturday forenoon, February 10, 
and retired at half past 12 o'clock. For more than twelve hours the jury wres- 
tled with the evidence before reaching a unanimous conclusion. At a quarter 
past 1 o'clock on Sunday morning they filed into the court-room with a verdict 
of murder in the second degree. The verdict was received by the people 
with great surprise, as it was the general opinion that Beery was equally 
guilty with Cooper, and should have received the extreme penalty of the law; 
and the jury was, at the time, considerably criticised and blamed for letting 
him off so easily. 

On Monday morning, February 12, the convicted murderers, Cooper and 
Beery, were brought before the bar to receive sentence. The latter was the 
first to appear in Court, and after being asked if he had anything to say in his 
own behalf, and answering that he had not, was sentenced to hard labor in the 
penitentiary for life, where he was soon afterward taken. The sentence was 
received with but little or no emotion by the prisoner, and as no effort was 
made by his counsel to get a new trial, we can readily infer that both they and 
Beery were satisfied with the lenient justice of the verdict. Upon receiving 
sentence, Beery was returned to his cell, and Cooper brought into Court. A 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 359 

motion for a new trial was made by Cooper's counsel and promptly overruled 
by Judge Glidden. Before pronouncing sentence the Court asked the prisoner 
if he had anything to say why the penalty of the law should not be pronounced 
upon him. Thereupon, Cooper arose and answered that he had little to say 
about his innocence, but he could hardly feel as if he had been fairly dealt 
with, or he would not have been convicted of murder. He said he was not a 
smart, or an educated man, and could not speak very well, but did not think 
on the evidence against him, he ought to be hung. The prisoner then resumed 
his seat, and Judge Glidden, after an able and exhaustive summing up of the 
evidence upon which he was convicted, and showing beyond a reasonable doubt 
that he was guilty of the crime charged, sentenced him to be hanged on the 
6th of April, 1866. 

The verdict and sentence in the Cooper case gave universal satisfaction. It 
was the third in which the death penalty was pronounced upon a criminal in 
Portage County; and a full, thorough, unbiased review of the testimony can 
leave no shadow of doubt of the equal justice and propriety of the verdict, 
inflicting, as it did, upon the culprit, the direst penalty of the law. The ter- 
rible deed was deliberately planned and cruelly executed. 

In the management of the Cooper and Beery trials. Judge Glidden 
exhibited an impartiality and cleai'ness upon legal questions that commended 
him in a high degree to the bar, and the many hundreds of citizens who 
watched their progress. The attorneys for the State, Messrs. Willard and 
Hart, performed their duties with a fitting sense of the responsibility resting 
upon them, and with a zealous care that through no default of theirs should 
the interests of the people be allowed to suffer. Of the defense made for the 
prisoners by Messrs. Taylor, Horton and Conant, it can truly be said, that no 
man could have been defended with greater ability, pertinacity or zeal. Had 
the culpi'its been members of the most influential or wealthy families, instead 
of having to depend upon the cou.nty for their defense, greater efi"orts could 
not have been made in their behalf. The State thus throws her mantle of 
protection around the accused, guaranteeing him every chance for a fair and 
impartial trial. 

After Cooper's conviction, he gave a history of his career. His real name 
was Samuel Wittum, and he was born in Elk Creek Township, Erie Co., Penn., 
a few miles east of the Ohio line, October 22, 1837. His father, Artemus 
Wittum, had previously resided in Ashtabula County, Ohio, and also in Indi- 
ana. Both his parents died when Samuel was about six years old, and he 
then went to live with a farmer named James Bird or Baird. This man 
treated him badly, and one of his sisters learning the facts came and took him 
away. He began life for himself on the Beaver & Erie Canal, and henceforth 
followed a wild, roving career. He was twice married, and is said to have 
been a gambler, counterfeiter, horse thief and murderer, and to have served a 
term in the Missouri penitentiary, ere committing the deed for which he finally 
sufi"ered death. Wittum, or Cooper, as he is best known to our readers, was 
respited by the Governor from the 6th until the 27th of April, for the purpose 
of giving a sister living in the East an opportunity to visit him. Though at 
first professing repentance for his crime, he tried to break Jail three times, the 
last being a desperate attempt. He fiercely attacked Sheriff Jennings, secured 
a fastening bar used on one of the doors, and calling on some other prisoners 
for assistance, which they, however, refused, made a superhuman effort to 
gain his freedom. The alarm was given and the Jail soon surrounded by a 
crowd of excited citizens, and Cooper, seeing that escape was now impossible, 
threw down the bar and retired to his cell cursing and swearing like a maniac. 



360 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

He refused to allow the Sheriff to enter his cell for the purpose of putting 
irons on his hands and feet, and exhibiting a knife which he had in some 
unknown manner secured, swore he would kill any man who would attempt to 
do so. Science now came to the rescue, and a physician was called in who 
with a syringe drenched Cooper with chloroform until he lay upon the floor 
in a senseless condition. He was then heavily ironed, and so remained until 
his execution, April 27, 1866, on a gallows erected in the southeast corner of 
the Jail. 

A few months passed by, and the dark crime of murder once more stained 
the record of Portage County. On Monday, November 26, 1866, a young 
man named Wilson S. Roof entered the house of William A. Musson, at Mog- 
adore, Suffield Township, and shot to death his wife, Mrs. Harriet Musson, 
while she was engaged in her daily labors. The murderer fled, and a reward 
of $550 was offered for his arrest, which was effected on Thanksgiving morn- 
ing, November 29, in Stark County, about a mile and a half from Lima Sta- 
tion, on the Cleveland & Pittsburgh Railroad. The culprit was captured by 
James Roath, a farmer of that vicinity, to whom he confessed that he was the 
marderer of Mrs. Musson. Roath and William Wiles took the prisoner in a 
buggy to Lima Station, thence by train to Ravenna, where they arrived a lit- 
tle after noon, and delivered him to the Sheriff. The following Saturday 
Roof was examined before Justice Andrew Jackson. Prosecuting Attorney 
H. H. Willard and J. J. Hall, of Akron, appeared for the State, and Alphonso 
Hart and C. A. Reed for the defense. The prisoner pleaded not guilty to the 
charge of murder, and upon a thorough examination was remanded to Jail to 
await the action of the Court of Common Pleas. 

Soon afterward the case took a new turn, and suspicion began to center 
on Milton Moore, a wealthy married man of Mogadore, doing business in 
Akron, as an accomplice in the murder of Mrs. Musson. In March, 1867, he 
was indicted for prompting and procuring Roof to commit the deed. It was 
rumored around Mogadore that Moore was a trifle too intimate with Roof 's 
sister, Hattie, and the scandal soon became common gossip. During the 
absence of Mrs. Moore from home, Mrs. Musson (who was her cousin) it is 
said, wrote her regarding the talk that was going the rounds, and upon Mrs. 
Moore's return she parted temporarily from her husband. This it was claimed 
led up to the commission of the tragedy. Moore gave bail in $50,000 security, 
and the case came to trial May 27, 1867, before Hon. George M. Tuttle and 
the following jury: T. G. Austin, R. P. Cannon, C. O. Foot, E. W. Grey, A. 
B. Griffin, Clark Norton, Isaac Brown, Charles Dudley, Ira Gardner, John 
Gillis, C. A. Mason and Joseph Preston. The attorneys for the State were H. 
H. Willard, A. J. Dyer. George Bliss, John McSweeney and Michael Stuart; and 
for the defense Ezra B. Taylor, S. W. McClure and J. J. Hall. The trial 
lasted five days, and though Roof swore positively to Moore's connection with 
the crime, the latter was acquitted on Friday, May 31. On the following day 
Roof pleaded guilty to the charge of murder in the second degree, and was 
sent to the penitentiary for life. 

On the 20th of September, 1867, Charles E. Harris deliberately shot his 
son, Alfred L., a young business man of Kent. At the November term of 
the Court of Common Pleas he pleaded guilty to the indictment of " shooting 
with intent to kill," and was sentenced to the penitentiary for ten years. 
The father s intemperate habits was the cause of the deed, and though the son 
apparently recovered at the time, he has since died, it is claimed from the 
effects of the shot. 



HISTORY- OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 361 

Frank M. Kelso, of Kent, was indicted at the January term, 1870, for 
murder in the second degree, James Montague, who died on or soon after 
November 18, 1869, being the victim. The trouble occurred through Kelso 
accusing Montague of stealing whisky from his (Kelso's) saloon, which the 
latter denied. A fight ensued, and it was claimed by the State that from 
injuries then received Montague subsequently died, his body being found 
November 28, in a cornfield some distance from the scene of the fight. The 
trial came off before Hon. P. B. Conant in the fall term of the Court of Com- 
mon Pleas, 1870. Kelso's attorneys were Ezra B. Taylor and D. L. Rock- 
well, and the State was represented by Prosecuting Attorney C. A. Reed and 
Alphonso Hart. The accused was convicted of manslaughter, and sentenced 
to the penitentiary for one year. There was no premeditation in this affair, 
and such an unfortunate event as the death of Montague might result from 
one blow struck in passion during any ordinary quarrel. Upon the expiration 
of hi5 term, Kelso returned to Kent, a reformed man, claiming that he could 
now see the evil results of liquor selling, and said that his imprisonment was 
the best thing for him that could have happened. He engaged in railroading, 
and soon came to be regarded by his employers as one of the most peaceable 
and trustworthy men on the road. 

The shooting of E. M. Newell by Orlando H. Roberts at Mantua, on Sun- 
day, October 19, 1884, is the last killing that has occurred in this county. 
The shot was fired while the two were engaged in a controversy over some 
chestnuts, and Newell died about a week afterward. Roberts gave himself up 
on the day of the shooting, and was placed in the county Jail at Ravenna, but 
subsequently he had a hearing before Justice Smith, who discharged him. 
Another trial took place before Justice Holcomb, who placed him under bonds 
of $1,000 to appear before the Court of Common Pleas at the January term. 
The grand jury indicted him for murder in the second degree, and the trial 
began before Hon, George F. Arrel on Monday, February 2, 1885. The attor- 
neys for the State were Prosecutor I. T. Siddall and J. H. Nichols; and Hon. 
Luther Day and W. B. Thomas for the defendant. The defense labored to 
establish a case of self-defense, claiming that Newell was the aggressor. The 
jury retired on Thursday afternoon, and on Friday afternoon returned a ver- 
dict of guilty of assault and battery. A verdict of acquittal would have 
created much less surprise throughout the county, and the general opinion is 
that Roberts escaped with a very light sentence. On Saturday morning, Feb- 
ruary 7, Judge Arrel sentenced the defendant to three months in the county 
jail, and to pay a fine of $100 and costs. 



362 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 



CHAPTER XII. 

The Newspapers of the Past and Pkesent— Ravenna Papers — Western 
Courier and the Western Public Advertiser— Ohio Star— Watchman 
—Buckeye Democrat— Western Reserve Cabinet and Family Visitor 
— Plain Dealer— Portage Sentinel— Portage County Whig, and Home 
Companion and Whig— Portage County Democrat, Republican-Demo- 
crat, AND Ravenna Republican — Independent Press, and Reformer — 
Hickory Flail and Fusion Thresher— A.rgus— Democratic Press— Por- 
tage County Republican— Kent Newspapers — Proposed Franklin 
Gazette— The Omnium Gatherum and its Successors : The Family Visitor, 
Literary Casket, Cuyahoga Reporter, Saturday Review, Commercial 
Bulletin, Saturday Bulletin, and Kent Saturday Bulletin— Kent 
News of 1867— Present Kent News— Garrettsville Newspapers— Gar- 

RETTSVILLE MONTHLY REVIEW — GaRRETTSVILLE JOURNAL— HOME BAZAR— 

Atwater Newspapers— Sharp Sickle— Atwater News. 

FOR seventeen years succeeding its organization, Portage County had not 
one newspaper published within her limits, but in 1825 the first printing 
press was set up in Ravenna, thus furnishing another link toward founding a 
community of progressive and intelligent people. Just sixty years ago J. B. 
Butler, a young man from Pittsburgh, Penn., made his appearance in Ravenna 
with a press, type and other materials of a newspaper office, and April 23, 
1825, issued the first number of the Western Courier and The Western Public 
Advertiser. It was a four-page, twenty-column sheet, 20x26 inches in size, 
and printed on the coarse, heavy paper of those early days. The subscription 
price was $2.50 per annum, but if paid "half yearly in advance," $2 was the 
amount charged. An offer was made by the editor to receive in payment for 
subscriptions "most kinds of produce, at the current market prices, if deliv- 
ered at the stores of Mr. Z. Kent or Perry & Prentiss, in Ravenna." Mr. 
Butler was an eccentric young man of some talent, an admirer of Henry Clay, 
and yielded his support to the administration of John Quincy Adams, which 
went into power March 4, 1825. The Courier was started on a subscription 
list of 320, which at the end of the first six months had grown to 650. It was 
a very good local paper for those days, and was regarded as a great boon by 
the people of the county, irrespective of political affiliations. 

Upon the close of Volume II, April 14, 1827, Mr. Butler sold the Courier 
to William Coolman, Jr., and C. B. Thompson, by whom its publication was 
continued. In May, 1828, James B. Walker bought a half interest in the 
paper, the firm being Coolman, Thompson & Walker. The Courier at this 
time was intensely anti- Jackson, and in the Presidential campaign of 1828 
fought ' ' old Hickory " bitterly, but to no purpose, for he swept the State and 
Nation, though Adams carried Portage County by a majority of 1,257. Mr. 
Thompson died March 15, 1829, leaving Coolman & Walker sole owners. On 
the 6th of June, 1829, the latter disposed of his interest to Mr. Coolman, who 
thus obtained the full ownership. When the Ohio Star was established at 
Ravenna, in January, 1830, the Courier became the Democratic organ of the 
county, and so remained until it ceased publication. On the 15th of January, 
1830, a Mr. Harsha purchased an interest, and the firm of Coolman & Harsha 
existed until April, 1831, when the latter retired and Mr. Coolman was once 
more sole owner. In August, 1832, John Harmon, who for several months 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 363 

previously had been assistant editor, purchased the Courier of Mr. Coolman. 
He edited and published the paper until the fall of 1836, when he sold it to 
Selby & Bobbins, two young men of Ravenna, who, in January, 1837, raised 
the subscription price to $2 in advance, $2.50 within six months and $3 at the 
close of the year. The Courier does not seem to have prospered under its new 
management and IVIr. Harmon again took control, but early in 1838 it ceased 
publication and was never revived. 

The Ohio Star was established at Ravenna by Lewis L. Rice, and first issued 
January 6, 1830. Mr. Rice was a printer from New York, but without means 
to start such an enterprise, and the capital to bviy the press and type was fur- 
nished by CyruB Prentiss and Jonathan Sloane, two well remembered pioneers 
of Ravenna. The Star was a four-page, twenty- column sheet, 20x30 inches in 
dimensions, the annual subscription price being $2 in advance and $2.50 if 
not paid before the expiration of the year. It adopted as its motto, " Be Just 
and Fear Not." The first prospectus issued by Mr. Rice gave its title as the 
Western Star, but subsequently learning that a paper bearing that name was 
located at Lebanon, Ohio (which paper, by the way, was established by John 
McLean in 1806, and is still in active operation), he at once substituted "Ohio" 
for "Western," and the first issue came out as the Ohio Star. In his pros- 
pectus the editor says: "We are opposed to all secret combinations and asso- 
ciations, under whatever plausible character." But the Star was especially 
an anti-Masonic paper, the workings of which order it vigorously attacked and 
exposed in every issue. It was also bitterly opposed to the Catholic Church, 
In August, 1832, the Star was enlarged to a twenty-four column paper, and 
otherwise much improved. 

On the Ist of January, 1834, Mr. Rice retired from the editorship, hav- 
ing previously disposed of his interest in the Star to Laurin Dewey, who 
still continued the anti-Masonic and anti-Catholic warfare. When the 
Whig party succeeded the anti-Masonic, embracing the elements of the 
latter organization, the Star became the local organ of Whiggism in 
Portage County. In January, 1837, the subscription price was increased 
to $2 in advance, $2.50 within six months, and $3 at the close of the 
year. On the 8th of March, 1838, Lyman W. Hall, who came to Ravenna in 
September, 1830, bought an interest in the Star, and the firm became Hall & 
Dewey. In June, 1838, the paper was again enlarged, and was now a four- 
page, twenty- eight-column sheet, 24x36 inches in size. Mr. Dewey being 
elected Sheriff of Portage County in October, 1838, disposed of his interest 
to Mr. Hall, who thus became sole proprietor. In December, 1839, he sold 
the Star to Root & Elkins, who engaged A. H. Lewis to edit the paper. In 
April, 1840, Mr. Elkins bought out Root, and he in turn retired in December, 
1842, having sold the office to Laurin Dewey and William Wadsworth. Mr. 
Lewis still continued as editor of the Star, which position he filled continu- 
ously from December, 1839, until December, 1843. The firm of Dewey & 
Wadsworth continued until April, 1844, when the latter purchased Mi-. Dew- 
ey's interest, and Mr. Lewis again assumed editorial control; but the follow- 
ing December he was elected Clerk of the House of Representatives, in the 
Ohio General Assembly, and gave up the editorship of the Star to accept that 
position. In April, 1845, Mr. Lewis obtained an interest in the paper, and 
the firm became William Wadsworth & Co., which existed until October, 1847, 
when the senior partner bought out Mr. Lewis, who, however, filled the edito- 
rial chair until December, in which month he finally severed his connection 
with the paper. 

On the 12th of July, 1848, Lyman W. Hall again got full ownership of 



364 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

the Star, and in September, 1852, enlarged the sheet, making it 25x39 inches 
in dimensions. He remained the editor and proprietor until its amalgamation 
with the Home Companion and Whig, in April, 1854. Soon after the advent 
of the Free Soil or Abolition party, the Star, though previously a Whig paper, 
became an advocate of the principles of Free Soil ism. This was its political 
faith at the time of the amalgamation, though considerably tinctured with 
Know-nothiugism, which had previously made its appearance in the political 
arena. The several elements embraced in the Whig, Free Soil and Know-noth- 
ing parties in Portage Counties, had drifted so closely together in political 
sentiment, that the amalgamation of the tsio papers as the Portage County 
Democrat, was a judicious move. The Democrat was therefore their lineal suc- 
cessor in the journalistic field. 

The Watchman was a small 'monthly paper of free" thought or infidel ten- 
dencies, established in Ravenna in January, 1835, by John Harmon. It was 
issued from the Courier office, which paper Mr. Harmon was then publishing, 
and lasted only a brief time, as the community would not at that period give 
their support to such a publication. 

The Buckeye Democrat was started in Ravenna on capital furnished by a 
coterie of gentlemen, among whom were John B. King, Rufus P. Spalding, 
Joseph Lyman and Asahel Tyler, under the firm name of John B. King & Co., 
with Le Grand Byington as editor. The Democrat was intended to fill the 
place of the Courier, which had discontinued publication the previous year, 
leaving the Democracy of Portage County without a local organ. Its first 
number made its appearance May 24, 1838, and was a four-page, twenty-four- 
column paper, 22x32 inches in dimensions. The Democrat was thoroughly 
devoted to the interests of the Democratic party, but after an existence of 
about nine months it ceased publication, issuing its final number February 
14, 1839. 

The Western Reserve Cabinet and Family Visitor was first issued in Ravenna 
January 1, 1840, by Lyman W. Hall, who previously owned and edited the 
Ohio Star. The Cabinet and Visitor was a small twenty -column sheet, 18x27 
inches in size, a kind of religio-political, literary and scientific paper, started 
to supply a supposed craving for such advanced reading matter. The sub- 
scription price was $1.50 per annum. The initial number was an experiment, 
and the second number did not make its appearance until March 5, 1840. 
With the beginning of Volume III in March, 1842, the paper came out enlarged 
to a twenty-four-column sheet, 21x33 inches in size, but upon the close of this 
volume, February 21, 1843, it was discontinued, because of the delinquency of 
its subscribers. Judging from the editor's valedictory, it would seem that there 
was not sufficient encouragement to warrant a continuance of the publication 
of the Cabinet and Visitor. 

The Plain Dealer was a Democratic paper started in Ravenna in 1844, for 
the purpose of giving a helping hand toward the election of James K. Polk to 
the Presidency. A Mr. Canfield was editor and publisher, but after a very 
brief and flickering existence, it gave up the struggle and ceased publication. 

The Portage Sentinel, the next journalistic enterprise in Ravenna, was 
established by Samuel D. Harris, Jr., and Roswell Batterson, and first issued 
Jane 5, 1845, as the local Democratic organ of Portage County. It was a 
four-page, twenty- four-column sheet, 22x32 inches in dimensions, and had 
placed at its head the following motto taken from the inaugural of President 
Polk: "The Constitution — The Safeguard of our Federal Compact." Its 
subscription price was $1.50 in advance, $2 if paid within the year and $2,50 
after that period. In June, 1847, the Sentinel came out in a new dress, 



-^ 




HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 367 

enlarged to a four-page, twenty-eight-column sheet of 24x36 inches, and flying 
the following suggestive motto from Jetferson: "Opposition to Tyranny is 
Obedience to God." Oa the 24th of March, 1851, Mr. Batterson, on account 
of poor health, severed his connection with the paper, leaving Mr. Harris sole 
proprietor. With the issue of August 2, 1854, he too retired from the <Sen^ineZ, 
having previously sold the office to Alphonso Hart and R. E. Craig, under the 
firm title of Hart & Craig, who began a new series, Vol. I, No. 1. On the 
24th of August, 1854, the name of the paper was changed to the Weekly 
Portage Sentinel, and also somewhat enlarged. In January, 1855, Mr. Hart 
became sole owner, but with the beginning of Volume III, August 14, 1856, he 
sold an interest in the Sentinel to James W. Somerville. The partnership of 
Hart & Somerville continued until December 31, 1857, when Mr. Hart disposed 
of his interest to the junior partner. Throughout Mr. Hart's editorial control 
the Sentinel was intensely Democratic, opposing the American and new-born 
Republican parties, and their local organ, the Portage County Democrat, with 
an unsparing pen. 

The Sentinel, after a publication of nearly seventeen years, issued its final 
number February 8, 1862. By virtue of a mortgage, Samuel D. Harris took 
charge of the office, sold the material to Lyman W. Hall, of the Portage 
County Democrat, and thus the Sentinel became extinct. 

The Portage County Whig was established in Ravenna by John S. Herrick 
in August, 1848. It was a four-page paper, of twenty eight columns, printed 
on a sheet 23x35 inches in dimensions, and published at $1.50 per annum in 
advance, and %2 at the end of the year. It advocated the political principles 
of the Whig party, and soon gained a respectable circulation. On the 24th of 
August, 1853, the beginning of Volume VI, the name of the paper was 
changed to the Home Companion and Whig, and so remained until its amal- 
gamation with the Ohio Star in April, 1854. 

The Portage County Democrat sprung from the amalgamation of the Ohio 
<Stor, owiaed and edited by Lyman W. Hall, and the Home Companion and 
Whig, of which John S. Herrick was the editor and proprietor. It was estab- 
lished by the firm of Hall, Herrick & Wadsworth, the last- mentioned gentle- 
man having been connected with the Ohio Star from December, 1842, until 
July, 1848. The Democrat was first issued April 5, 1854, and wos a four- 
page, thii'ty-two-column paper, 26x40 inches in size, published at $1.50 per 
annum in advance, or $2 at the close of the year. The new paper took for its 
motto Jefi"erson'8 saying: "Resistance To Tyrants Is Obedience To God," which 
had previously been the motto of the Sentinel. In tbe State election of 1855 
the Know-nothings and the new-born Republican party united on all of the 
candidates excepting Governor, and the Democrat supported the combination 
ticket, and Salmon P. Chase, the Republican Gubernatorial nominee. 

In 1858, three years after its organization, the Republican party of Ohio 
embraced within its fold most of the strength of the Whig, Free Soil, and 
Know-nothing parties, previously the opponents of the Democracy. Tbe 
Democrat was its local organ in Portage County throughout this gathering- in 
process, and, with the changes in name, has so remained up to the present. 

With the issue of April 30, 1856, Mr. Wadsworth's connection with the 
Democrat ceased, H. R. W. Hall, son of the senior partner, taking his place, 
the firm becoming Hall, Herrick & Co. In March, 1859, Mr. Herrick sold his 
interest to the Halls, and the title of the firm changed to L. W. Hall & Son, 
who continued the business, raising the subscription price to $1.50 in advance, 
12 at the end of six months, and $2.50 after that period. In April, 1861, the 
junior partner severed his relations with the Democrat, retiring on account of 

20 



368 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

his physical health becoming impaired. Lyman W. Hall continued as editor 
and proprietor, giving his earnest and vigorous support to the Union cause. In 
March, 1862, he took his son into the office as associate editor. The high 
price of labor, paper, and all other materials during the war, necessitated the 
advancement of the subscription price, which, in March, 1864, was raised to 
$2 in advance, and the following December to $2.50. In March, 1866, H. R. 
W. Hall again obtained an interest in the paper, and the firm became once 
more L. W. Hall & Son. On the 18th of April, 1866, the Democrat came out 
enlarged, and in an entirely new dress, printed from new type. It was now a 
four-page, thirty-six-column paper, 28x44 inches in size. In November, 1868, 
ih& Democrat announced as its terms $2 in advance, $2.50 within the year, 
and $3 if not paid until the end of the year. On the 9th of March, 1870, the 
junior partner retired from the firm, his father continuing alone until April, 
1871, when he turned over the office to his son, H. R. W. Hall; but in April, 
1873, the elder Hall again assumed joint control, L. W. Hall & Son composing 
the firm. 

Since December 9, 1868, the paper had at its head the cut of a printing- 
press placed between "Portage" and "County," and over the press the word 
"Republican." In July, 1875, they placed at the head of the first column, 
on page 1, the '"''Portage County Repuhlican-Democrat.'''' In March, 
1877, the name was changed to the Beimblicayi- Democrat, and an eight- 
page style adopted, containing fifty-six columns, printed on a sheet 
35x48 inches in dimensions, but the subscription price remained as before the 
change. Financial disaster finally overtook the long-time publishers of the 
paper, and with the issue of February 27, 1878, it passed from their 
ownership and control into the hands of J. D. Horton and C. A. Reed, 
assignees of L. W. Hall & Son. who engaged H. R. W. Hall to edit and man- 
age it. On the 2d of May, 1878, the assignees sold the paper and office to the 
Republican-Democrat Publishing Company, a stock company organized for the 
purpose of buying it, and who are now the owners, although some changes 
have occurred in the personnel of the company. The sheet was at once 
reduced in size to 30x44 inches; and in July, 1878, the subscription price was 
established at $2 in advance. Mr. Hall continued to edit and manage the 
Repuhlican-Democrat until September, 1882, when he was succeeded by Arthur 
Mosley, Esq., the present efficient editor and manager. 

On the 1st of March, 1882, the company bought out the Portage County 
BcjnibUcan, a Republican paper which had been in operation in Ravenna 
about fovir years, and on the 2d of May, 1883, the paper came out as the 
Ravenna Republican, the publishers regarding that title as more consistent 
and euphonious than the old one, which was both unwieldy and misleading. 
The Republican was enlarged April 30, 1884, and is now an eight-page, fifty- 
six-column paper, 35x48 inches in dimensions. The annual subscription, how- 
ever, remains at $2, and like its predecessor, it is issued every Wednesday. 
During its long and varied career, this paper, under its several names, has 
always stood in the front rank of country journals, aud it is still the aim and 
earnest efibrt of the publishers and its present editor and manager to keep the 
Republican fully abreast with the progressive journalistic spirit of the age. 
In connection with the paper is operated a first-class job office, equipped with 
the best and most approved machinery and printing appliances. The Repub- 
lican is the official organ of Portage Countv, and claims a circulation of about 
2,300. 

The Independent Press, subsequently called the Reformer, was first issued 
from its office in Ravenna, April 25, 1855, as "a religious and anti-slavery 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY, 369 

journal, independent of party or sect," with W. B. Orvis editor and publisher. 
I was a four-page, twenty-eight-column sheet, 24x36 inches in size, and was 
published at $1.50 per annum. In December, 1855, the paper came out as 
the Independent Press and Reformer, and A. Pryne became associated with 
Mr. Orvis in its publication. The latter retired in January, 1856, and was 
succeeded by Willard Burr. The following February the name of the paper 
was reversed, being then named the Reformer and Independent Press, and in 
April the latter part of the title was dropped. In September, 1856, James 
Gregg took the place of Mr. Burr on the paper. With the beginning of Vol- 
ume III, the Reformer was reduced in size and also in price to $1 per annum. 
But those changes do not seem to have been judicious, as the paper soon after- 
ward gave up the struggle and was numbered among the many dead news- 
paper enterprises whose wrecks are to be found in every town from the Atlan- 
tic to the Pacific. 

The Hickory Flail and Fusion Thresher was a small Democratic humor- 
ous campaign paper published in Ravenna during the Gubernatorial campaign 
of 1855. It was a four-page, sisteen-colnmn sheet, 17x23 inches in size. 
The Hickory Flail supported William Medill for Governor of Ohio, and was 
edited and published by a coterie of Democrats with the sole purpose of accom- 
plishing that object, but though the Democracy of the State made a gallant 
tight they were defeated, and the F'lail went down at the same time. 

The Argus was started in Ravenna by H. A. Waldo, some time after the 
demise of the Sentinel, and was intended to take the place of that paper as a 
local Democratic organ. The writer has been unable to find a copy of the 
Argus, and therefore can tell nothing of its size or exact date of publication; 
but it made very little impression in the newspaper field, and ran only a few 
months. 

The Democratic Press was established in Ravenna by the veteran editor 
and publisher, Samuel D. Harris, and first issued September 3, 1868. It has 
always been a four-page paper, 27x39 inches in size, issued every Thursday, 
and containing thirty-two columns of matter. Mr. Harris had been absent 
from the editorial chair for about fourteen years, or since retiring from the 
Sentinel, of which he was one of the founders, August 2, 1854; but a 
local Democratic paper in Portage County became a necessity, and he concluded 
to go into the enterprise. The Press was started at $2 per annum in advance, 
and $2.50 if the subscription was allowed to run, but in August, 1878, the 
price was reduced to $1.50 and $2 respectively. With the beginning of Vol- 
ume XIII, in August, 1880, Mr. Harris gave his son an interest in the Press, 
and the firm has since been S. D. Harris & Son. 

The Press began its career on a subscription list of 300, but grew rapidly 
under the good management of Mr. Harris until to-day it possesses a circula- 
tion of about 1,000 copies, and is regarded as one of the leading Democratic 
country papers in northeastern Ohio. Mr. Harris is one of the oldest editors 
and publishers in the State, born in Ravenna Township, Portage County, May 
17, 1816, his whole life has been passed on his native heath, the greater por- 
tion of it in Ravenna. His memory goes back to the days when Portage 
County was almost a wilderness, and possessed not a single newspaper of any 
sort. He worked as a printer on the Courier, the Ohio Star, and the Buckeye 
Democrat, and his knowledge of the newspapers of this county is more extensive 
than that of any other man now living within her boundaries. He distinctly 
remembers seeing the old press of the Courier hauled into Ravenna, and laughs 
over the avidity with which its tirst issue (April 23, 1825) was scanned by the 
few people then living in the village. May he long continue to fill the editorial 



370 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

chair which his experience has done so much toward establishing on a firm 
foundation. 

The Portage County Republican was the last newspaper enterprise estab- 
lished in Ravenna. It was started as a Republican paper in April, 1878, by 
J. H. Fluhart, in opposition to the Republican- Democrat. The Republican 
was first an eight-page, 30x44 inch sheet, but about two months before it was 
sold it was enlarged to 35x48 inches. It was printed on the co-operative plan, 
with patent inside. On the first of March, 1S82, the office and paper was pur- 
chased by the Republican-Democrat Publishing Company, and absorbed by that 
institution. 

Kent Newspapers. — The first effort made toward establishing a paper at 
Franklin Mills (now Kent), occurred in May, 1836, when D. Radebaugh, fore- 
man of the Courier office in Ravenna, issued a prospectus for a paper to be 
founded by him at that village, and to be called the Franklin Gazette. The 
principal object intended by the enterprise was to advocate the election of 
Martin Van Buren to the Presidency, but for want of funds the scheme did 
not fully materialize, and nothing further than issuing the prospectus was ever 
accomplished. 

The Omnium Gatherum was the pioneer paper of Kent, and was established 
by Dr. Alonzo Dewey, with W. W. Beach as editor, and first issued September 
7, 1859. It was a small four-page, twenty-column sheet 20x26 inches in size, 
politically independent and issued weekly at $1.25 per annum. It ran under 
the above title aboiat two months, but November 17, 1859, changed its name 
to the Family Visitor, which was the same size and price. The Visitor was 
issued irregularly for three months, and on the 16th of February, 1860, the 
paper was changed to a monthly, called the Literary Casket, with Marshall 
Dewey as editor and publisher. It was subsequently issued semi-monthly, 
changing back and forth, in size and time of issue, as the circumstances and 
patronage justified. In connection with this venture Mr. Dewey started, in 
May, 1860, the Cuyahoga Reporter, also a semi-monthly, of which only a few 
numbers were issued. For about five years the Casket ran along in a sort of 
" a half dead and alive " manner, but Mr, Dewey was evidently determined to 
keep up the fight, and December 2, 1865, the paper came out as the Saturday 
Review. It was issued weekly, and December 16 the sheet was increased in 
size, though still a five column folio. The Revieiu ran along through the 
summer of 1866 and was then for a short time suspended. Mr. Dewey again 
resolved on a change of name, and in October, 1866, sent forth the Commer- 
cial Bulletin, a small four-column folio, which increased in size with the 
passing years until it became quite a respectable looking newspaper. In the 
meantime the name was changed to the Saturday/ Morning Bulletin and after- 
ward to the Saturday Bulletin, the paper having by this time grown to a four- 
page, 22x30 inch sheet of twenty-four columns. The Bulletin was edited and 
published by Mr. Dewey up to the issue of May 1, 1876, though for some years 
previously its financial condition was at a low ebb, its annual subscription 
price changing according to circumstances, being but $1 when Mr. Dewey sold 
the office. 

The present editor and proprietor, Mr. N. J. A. Minich, before purchasing 
the Bulletin of Mr. Dewey, was President of the Akron Daily Argus Publish- 
ing Company. With the first issue, May 6, 1876, Mr. Minich changed the 
name to the Kent Saturday Bulletin and increased the price to $1.50 per annum 
in advance, at which figure the subscription has ever since remained. On the 
29th of July, 1876, the Bulletin was enlarged to a four-page, twenty-eight- 
column paper, 23x35 inches in dimensions, and on the 16th of November, 1878, 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 371 

it was still further enlarged to a 26x39 inch sheet of thirty-two columns. 
Thus it remained until October 29, 1881, when the Bulletin was changed from 
a folio to a quarto — an eight-page paper of forty-eight columns. The progress 
made under the editorship and management of Mr. Minich was very noticeable 
from the moment he took the helm. The Bulletin had then a very small sub- 
scription list and little advertising patronage. He soon infused new life and 
vigor into the concern, and to-day the paper is enjoying a more liberal patron- 
age than ever before. The best evidence of the Bulletiti^s prosperity is the 
steady increase in its subscription list and the general growth of the business 
from comparative insignificance to its present high position among the news- 
paper properties of Portage County. In the fall of 1884 the office was refitted 
with new steam printing machinery, and it now possesses all the conveniences 
of a first-class job office. The policy of the Bulletin under Mr. Minich has 
always been thoroughly independent, and it now claims a circulation of about 
1,400 copies. 

The Kent Neivs, established by L. D. Durban & Co., and first issued Octo- 
ber 26, 1867, was the next newspaper started in Kent. It was a four page, 
twenty-eight-column paper, 24x36 inches in size, published at $2 per annmn 
and advocated the principles of the Republican party. The News began on a 
subscription list of about 600, and Mr. Durban, who published a paper at 
Newcastle, Penn. , put his son in charge of the office. The paper did not pros- 
per under the young man's management, and after a career of about one year, 
the father gave up the experiment, and removed the printing material to his 
own office at Newcastle. 

The present Kent News is the only Democratic paper ever published in 
Kent. It was established by A. C. Davis and Richard Field, and first issued 
July 8, 1881. The News was then a four-page, sixteen-column paper, printed 
on a sheet 15x21 inches in dimensions. The fii'm of Davis & Field existed 
only a short time, the latter retiring from the business. On the 5th of August, 
1881, the News came out in quarto form — an eight-page, thirty-two-column 
sheet 30x42 inches in size. In June, 1882, the News Publishing Company 
purchased the office, with Paul B. Conant as editor and publisher; but 
the following fall he was succeeded by O. S. Rockwell, who has since edited 
and published the paper. On the 15th of December, 1882, the News was 
enlarged to a four-page sheet, 24x35 inches in size, and containing twenty- 
eight columns of mattei*. Its issues of May 11 and 18, 1883, were published, 
as an experiment, as the Penny Neivs (being the same size as its first number 
issued two years before) and sold at one penny. The experiment, however, 
does not seem to have proven successful, for after two numbers the paper 
went back to its old title, appearing on the 25th of May, 1883, as a fifty -six- 
column quarto, which made it one of the largest newspapers in this section of 
the State. On the 16th of May, 1884, the Neivs was somewhat reduced in size, 
and has since been an eight-page, forty-eight-column paper, 30x44 inches in 
dimensions. In 1884 the office was re-equipped, a Campbell steam printing 
press introduced, and the present comfortable quarters in the Rockwell Block 
occupied. The News has always been thoroughly Democratic, and complete in 
the cui'rent news of the day. Under Mr. Rockwell's management it has made 
itself felt in the local political arena, and though it has had an uphill 
struggle for existence, is now safely established, claiming a circulation of about 
1.000 copies, at a subscription price of $1 per annum in advance. The News 
has come to stay, for its columns are full of life and energy. 

Garrettsville NeivspajJers. — The first newspaper published in the bustling 
town of Garrettsville was the Garrettsville Monthly Review, by Warren Peirce, 



372 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

and first issued in April, 1865. The ofiSce was in an old frame building, now 
(January, 1885,) a part of the structure occupied by the postoffiee. Mr. Peirce 
was born in Windham Township, Portage County; came to Garrettsville in 
1851, and soon after opened a small job printing office. For a while he man- 
ufactured his own presses, and did job work. Prior to 1865 he purchased a 
small hand-press of the Cleveland Herald Company, and with it published the 
first and subsequent editions of the Review, which was a four-page sheet, 
12x20 inches in dimensions. He continued the Review about sixteen months 
at 50 cents per annum, and then gave up its publication. 

The Garrettsville Journal was also established by Mr. Peirce, and first 
issued July 10, 1867, as a four-page twenty- four-column paper, 22x32 inches 
in size. In 1870 he enlarged it to a 26x40 inch sheet of thirty-two columns, 
published at $1.50 per year. A short time before this enlargement he pur- 
chased a large cylinder power press, which is now operated by steam. On the 
15th of September, 1873, Mr. Peirce sold the Journal to Charles B. Webb, 
who, October 25, 1883, changed it to an eight-page paper of forty-eight col- 
umns, printed on a sheet 30x44 inches. By his energy and persistent efforts 
Mr. Webb has increased the patronage of the Journal, until he now claims a 
circulation of about 1,200 copies. During its entire existence the Journal 
has been independent in politics, its owners devoting their energies toward 
publishing a good local paper for their readers, irrespective of their political 
opinions. The presses and job office are still owned and operated by Mr. 
Peirce, who does quite a large business in the job printing line. 

The Home Bazar was another Garrettsville publication, started by Mr. 
Peirce in January, 1869. It was a literary magazine, 9x12 inches in dimen- 
sions, and contained sixteen pages. He ran it for two years at a subscription 
price of 50 cents and 75 cents per year respectively, and then pold it to the 
Rev. W. Clouse, of the Baptist Church, who removed the office to Cleveland, 
where the Bazar soon afterward failed for want of patronage. 

Atwater Neivspapers. — Two papers have been established at Atwater, 
viz. : the Sharp Sickle and the Atwater News. The Sickle was published by a 
Mr. Hicks for some time prior to his death in 1879, and the press used is now 
in possession of William JStratton, of Atwater. The Neivs was first issued in 
July, 1884, but ceased publication after a few numbers. Owing to the fact 
that the Neivs was printed at Alliance, full postal rates were collected at the 
Atwater postoffiee, which was the main reason for its discontinuance. 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 373 



CHAPTER XIII. 

Portage County in the Rebellion— The Patriotic, Feeling of Her People 
AT THE Beginning of the Great Struggle for National Life — Meetings 
Held to Denounce Treason and to Support the Government— Enroll- 
ment OF Volunteers Under the President's First Call, and Their 
Departure for Camp Taylor— Good Work of the Relief Committees, 
■ and Generosity of the Citizens— The Number of Men Sent Into the 
War by Each Toavnshjp, and the Commands in Which They Served — 
Official Roster of Commissioned Officers From This County— Amount 
of Money Annually Expended for War Purposes by Portage County 
From 1861 to I860— Closing Scenes of the War— Public Demonstrations 
of Great Joy Over Its Glorious Termination— The Rejoicings of the 
People Suddenly Turned to Grief by the Assassination of President 
Lincoln. 

WHEN the news of the firing on Fort Sumter flashed over the wires, a 
deep feeling of patriotic indignation filled the hearts of the loyal mil- 
lions of the North, and in nearly every city, town and hamlet, from the Atlan- 
tic to the Pacific, meetings were held for the purpose of giving public expres- 
sion to that feeling. Portage County was not behind the rest of the Nation 
in this respect, for the thrilling news had scarcely grown cold before her citi- 
zens assembled in the several towns and villages, and passed ringing resolu- 
tions of fealty to the Union. Ravenna being the seat of justice, the action 
taken in that city will be a fair illustration of the sentiment which prevailed 
throughout the county during that momentous period of our history. On 
Monday evening, April 15, 18(31, the citizens of Ravenna and vicinity, irre- 
spective of party, in response to a call for a Union meeting issued the same 
afternoon, came promptly together as if moved by the one common impulse of 
upholding the flag. The Town Hall was filled to overflowing, and men of 
every shade of political belief vied with each other in patriotic ardor. The 
hearts of all those present beat as the heart of one man, as all pledged them- 
selves to maintain the Union and to uphold the constitutionally elected execu- 
tive in his proper efforts to sustain the Government and execute the laws. It 
was a very noticeable fact that the strongest condemnation of the firing on 
Fort Sumter, the most emphatic expressions of devotion to the Union, and the 
most decided and cordial pledges to sustain the Government, uttered by the 
several speakers, met with the loudest cheers and the most hearty and decisive 
responses from the people. 

The meeting was called to order by Samuel D. Harris, Jr., when Hon. 
Darius Lyman was appointed Temporary Chairman, and J. W. Somerville, Sec- 
retary. On motion, a Committee on Permanent Organization, consisting of 
Messrs. O. P. Brown, Samuel D. Harris, Jr., John C. Beatty, H. C. Ranney 
and J. G. Willis, was appointed by the Chair. A Committee on Resolutions 
was also appointed by the Chair, consisting of Messrs. Alphonso Hart, Lyman 
"W. Hall, Horace Y. Beebe, J. T. Catlin and Luther Day. After a short recess, 
the Committee on Permanent Organization reported as follows: Darius Ly- 
man, President; J. G. Willis, R. J. Thompson and Charles Lawrence, Vice- 
Presidents; J. W. Somerville and H. R. W. Hall, Secretaries. The report of 
the committee was accepted and adcjpted. The Committee on Resolutions 
made the following report: 



374 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

Resolved, That in utter and patriotic disregard of past partisan differences, we, the cit- 
izens of Ravenna, here assembled without distinction of party, declining now to pause to 
recount the causes which have brought upon us the crisis which imperils the existence of 
the Nation, do emphatically declare, that every other feeling should give way to love of 
country, and a desire for the preservation of tlie Union, and now, when war is waged by 
rebel forces, and rebellion to constitutional law and constitutional government is openly 
proclaimed, and secession, whicli is but another name for revolution, is undermining the 
Natonal fabric, it is the duty of every American citizen to stand by the Stars and Stripes 
and to uphold the Federal authorities in ever3' constitutional effort to enforce the laws and 
maintain the constitutional rights of the Confederacy. 

Resolved, That the wanton and improvoked attack, by rebels in arms, against the 
authority of the National Government, in the warlike attack on Sumter, having inaugu- 
rated civil war, we hereby cordially pledge our support and co-operation to the Federal 
authorities in every legitimate effort by them put forth to suppress rebellion and maintain 
the Federal authority in every part of the Union. 

These resolutions were accepted, and, after short patriotic addresses by 
Alphonso Hart, Lttther Day, Samuel D. Harris, Jr., O. P. Brown, Rev. J. C. 
Hart, Rev. E. J. L. Baker, Michael Stuart and L. D. Woodworth, were unan- 
imously adopted amidst great enthusiasm. Three hearty cheers for the Union 
were then given, and the meeting adjourned. The magnanimous forgetfulness 
by the Democratic speakers of all the bitter partisan conflicts of the past, was 
equaled only by the cordial spirit of fraternization with which they were met 
by the Republican speakers, and by the hearty res{)onse of the assembled hun- 
dreds. The scene was truly creditable and exhibited the loftiest patriotism. 

The people of Portage County were now thoroughly aroused, and, in 
response to the call of President Lincoln for 75,000 volunteers, the work of 
organizing military companies began at once. A few croakers here and there 
exhibited tbeir opposition to the war measures of the Government, btit men 
no longer acted in the spirit of party, or with the aims of partisans; they no 
longer felt themselves Republicans or Democrats, but awoke to the full con- 
Bciousness that they were American citizens, that they had a common interest 
in the perpetuation of the Union, and an equal weight of responsibility and 
of duty in upholding a constitutional government in its efforts to protect its 
projierty and enforce its laws against the assaults of armed traitors. 

Meetings were held in the Town Hall in Ravenna, on Wednesday, Friday 
and Saturday, April 17, 19 and 20, 1861. The AVednesday evening meeting 
was called for the purpose of organizing an artillery company. Judge Luther 
Day was appointed Chairman of the meeting, and H. H. Willard, Secretary. 
On taking the chair, Jttdge Day made a few remarks full of the patriotism 
required by the occasion, which infused a similar spirit through the audience, 
and the entire evening was a continued outburst of enthtisiastic devotion to the 
Union. A Committee of Finance was chosen, consisting of Alphonso Hart, 
Ezra B. Taylor and Samuel D. Harris, Jr. Messrs. Hart and Taylor were 
called out and spoke briefly, but with the spirit demanded by the crisis. 
Twenty volunteers for Capt. C. S. Cotter's Artillery Company were enrolled, 
and the meeting adjourned amid loud cheers from the audience. 

The meeting on Friday evening had for its main object the enlistment of a 
rifle company. At the hour announced the Town Hall was filled with an inter- 
ested audience. Gen. E. B. Tyler was chosen Chairman, and Samuel D. Har- 
ris, Jr., and T. W. Browning, Secretaries. Brief addresses were delivered by 
Ezra B. Taylor, Alphonso Hart, Philo B. Couant, Gen. E. B. Tyler and T. 
W. Browning, earnestly urging the necessity of prompt action in regard to the 
specific purpose of the meeting. Those sentiments were heartily endorsed by the 
audience, and a fine list of volunteers went forward and enrolled their names 
on the recruiting papers held by Capt. H. H. Willard. 

At 4 o'clock P. M. on Saturday, a telegram was received from Hon. James 












'ftv^ 







'^c^6a)r//^ 



HISTORY OF rORTAGE COUNTY. 379 

A. Garfield, of Hiram Township, and Hon. "William Stedman, of Kandolph 
Township, who then respectively represented Portage County in the upper and 
lower houses of the General Assembly of Ohio, announcing that they would be 
glad to meet the citizens of Ravenna that evening in one of the public halls of 
the town. The news was proclaimed upon the streets and the Town Hall was 
too small by far to contain all who came to the meeting. Gen. E. B. Tyler 
was chosen Chairman, and T. W. Browning, Secretary. Representative Sted- 
man first spoke. He said he came not to say, but to do; not to talk, but to 
enlist; the peril of the Nation demanded men, not words, and he was ready for 
his part of the duty. Senator Garfield was the next speaker. His hand as 
well as his heart was in the work, and in a very effective manner he sought to 
impress and inspire the audience with the generous, patriotic and burning 
emotions which animated his own nature. His soul-stirring address was 
received with the wildest demonstrations, his ringing remarks nerving every 
heart to deeds of heroism. Judge Luther Day was next called out, and 
responded in a similar strain and with like effect. He was followed by Gen. 
John B. King, of Ravenna, who wanted to know what such men as he, who 
were not exactly the stripe for "fighting men," could do; not that his heart 
did not want to fight; but what could he do for his country; he must do some- 
thing. A motion was at once made and enthusiastically adopted, that Gen. 
King be empowered to raise a Home Guard, and drill and command the same. 
Gen. E. B. Tyler made a few remarks in conclusion, and after appropriate 
music by the Ravenna Martial Band, the audience dispersed to their homes, 

" Their souls in arms, 
All eager for the fray." 

During the evening a resolution was passed at the meeting that a "mass 
county convention" be called at Ravenna on Monday, April 22, at 1 o'clock P. 
M., for the purpose of raising vohinteer companies. Hand bills were at once 
issued, and runners dispatched into every township in Portage County request- 
ing that the notice be read in all the churches on the following day. This call 
was promptly responded to, and from every portion of the county streams of 
patriotic people came pouring into town on Monday morning, and by the 
appointed hour sitch a large concourse had seldom been seen in Ravenna. The 
Windham Township delegation, bearing the Stars and Stripes, made the wel- 
kin ring with their huzzas for the Union. The Brimfield Volunteers marched 
in holding aloft the flag under which they had enlisted to do battle. This 
township also sent a fine delegation of her citizens, which appeared in the pro- 
cession. Franklin Township was represented by a long procession of aboiat 
100 teams lined with flags and banners, and led by the Franklin Band and the 
Franklin Volunteers, forty in number, with Dr. E. W. Crain, himself a volun- 
teer, marching proudly at their head. Raveana, Franklin, Garrettsville, Charles- 
town, Brimfield and Edinburg each contributed a band, and soul-stirring mar- 
tial notes filled the air upon that bright and buoyant April day. 

At a morning citizens' meeting T. R. Williams, Andrew Jackson, E. H. 
Witter, AV. R. Alcorn and J. T. Catlin were chosen as a Committee of Arrange- 
ments; and George Bostwick and R. B. Witter, Marshals. At 1 o'clock P. M. 
the volunteers were marched from the Town Hall to the stand in front of the 
Court House, escorted by Gen. E. B. Tyler, the Ravenna Light Artillery and the 
several bands. A salute was then fired by the artillery, after which Gen. John 

B. King, of Ravenna, President of the day, was introduced to the assembled 
multitude by T. R. Williams, Chairman of the Committee of Arrangements. 
The other officers consisted of Vice-Presidents Gen. David Mcintosh, Shalers- 



380 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

ville Township; Col. O. L. Drake, Freedom Township; Col. John E. Jackson, 
Aurora Township; and Col. W. R. Hallock, Rootstown Township; Secretaries 
H. R.W. Hall and J. W. Somerville, Ravenna; and Rev. J. C. Hart, Chaplain. The 
meeting was called to order by Gen. King, and opened with prayer by the Rev. 
Hart. The large assemblage was then addressed by Hon. Luther Day, Hon. 
William Stedman, Hon. Alphonso Hart, Hon. James A. Garfield and Gen. E. 
B. Tyler in the order named, all breathing the same patriotic sentiments of 
undying devotion and fidelity to the dear old flag. They spoke as men speak 
whose hearts bleed for their country, whose souls are enlisted in the cause 
they advocate, and who, appreciating the justice of their position, and the 
purity of their motives, launch forth upon an irresistible tide of argument, 
unanswerable because inspired of God and approved by man. Every speaker 
was greeted with great enthusiasm, and loud cries of " lead us to the field " 
filled the air. Volunteers were called for and came forward readily, soon fill- 
ing the quota at that time required of Portage County. Every man seemed 
anxious to be on duty, and all would have gladly marched on the morrow to 
the field of battle. 

In the meantime Brig. -Gen. E. B. Tyler had been assigned to the command 
of the Second Brigade, Ninth Division, Ohio Volunteer Militia, consisting of 
the counties of Portage, Trumbull and Mahoning, with headcjuarters at 
Ravenna. His staff was composed of the following officers: Brigade-Major, 
J. B. Willis, vice D. C. Coolman absent from the State; Major, H. C. Ranney; 
Acting Surgeon, C. S. Leonard; Aid-de-carap, Capt. Joseph King. During a 
temporary absence of Maj. Willis, Samuel D. Harris, Jr., served as Brigade- 
Major. Gen. Tyler issued enlisting orders for infantry to Capts. W. B. Bing- 
ham, of Ravenna Township, and William Stedman, of Randolph Township; 
for riflemen, to Capts. H. H. Willard and J. C. Giddings, of Palmyra Town- 
ship, and to David C. Stockwell, of Shalersville Township; and for artillery to 
Capt. C. S. Cotter, of Ravenna. 

The days succeeding the mass meeting at Ravenna were days of great 
excitement throughout the county. War was the topic of the hour, volunteers 
were enrolling and departing for camp, and general business was almost sus- 
pended. The Franklin Mills Rifle Company was organized on Tuesday, April 
23, by the election of John Morris, of Franklin Mills (Kent), Captain; John 
Rouse, of Franklin Mills, First Lieutenant; and Isaac N. Wilcox, of Wind- 
ham Township, Second Lieutenant. This company received orders to report 
at Camp Taylor, Cleveland, aod on Wednesday evening, April 24, left Ravenna 
for the camp, being the first organized company from Portage County to reach 
that rendezvous. Upon the regimental organization of the Seventh Regiment, 
Ohio Volunteer Infantry, into which the Franklin Mills company had been 
mustered as Company F, April 30, Capt. Morris was chosen Quartermaster 
on Col. Tyler's staff, and William .Stedman became Captain of the company. 

On Thursday morning, April 25, orders came to Ravenna for another com- 
pany of volunteers to report at Camp Taylor, and at an early hour the Tyler 
Guards was organized at the Town Hall, and so named in honor of Gen. E. B. 
Tyler. The officers elected were Frederick A. Seymour, Captain; William 
H. Robinson. First Lieutenant; Elliott S. Quay, Second Lieutenant, all of 
Ravenna. The company left for Camp Taylor the same evening, and on the 
30th of April was mustered into the Seventh Regiment as Company G. At 
the Ravenna railroad depot, just before departure, Capt. Seymour was pre- 
sented with a "navy six-shooter" by Judge Luther Day, on behalf of his 
Ravenna friends, while to each man in the command was given a small silver 
shield, with the emblematic stars, the name of his company and his own name 



HISTORY OF rORTAGE COUNTY. 381 

engraved thereon. Those shields were the gift of Gen. Tyler, in token of 
his appreciation of the company receiving his name. On the 23d of May Capt. 
Seymour returned from Camp Dennison,jWhither the regiment had removed, to 
Ravenna, for the purpose of recruiting his command, and by the 27th the 
requisite number was ready for service. Those volunteers came chiefly from 
Garrettsville, Palmyra, Edinburg, Atwater and Deerfield Tovs^nships. 

By midnight on Thursday, April 25, an order came for the Ravenna Light 
Artilleiy, under the command of Capt. C. S. Cotter and Lieut. C. J. Gillis. 
The muster drum was beaten, the members called together and the following 
morning the company departed for Camp Taylor. Before leaving. Miss 
Sereptha Mason, on behalf of the ladies of Ravenna, presented to Capt. 
Cotter a box containing a rosette for each member of the command, also $12 
with which to purchase a flag. By request of Gen. Tyler, Ezra B. Taylor 
then presented Capt. Cotter and Lieut. Gillis each a fine navy revolver, after 
which the train sped onward and the people returned to their daily avocations. 
The battery remained at Camp Taylor until June 3, when, pursuant to orders 
it returned to Ravenna and partially disbanded. Soon afterward, Capt. Cotter 
went to Columbus, Ohio, where he received orders for active service. Return- 
ing home he reorganized and recruited his command, which was regularly 
mustered into the service at Camp Chase, near Columbus, Ohio, July 2, 1861. 
On the following day it left for the front, and July 17 participated in a 
skirmish on Scarey Creek, W. Va., where John Haven, of Shalersville, was 
mortally wounded, being the first Portage County man who lost his life in battle. 

The Ravenna Martial Band escorted each command to the depot, and the 
departures were signalized by patriotic speech -making, and tender, tearful 
adieus. Every household in the town was represented, and no series of events 
in the history of Portage County have ever brought her people so closely 
together in heartfelt sympathy. The Stars and Stripes were displayed at every 
available point, and unbounded enthusiasm in the Union cause filled the hearts 
of all good citizens. In the Portage County Democrat of May 1, 1861, the 
writer found the following beautiful poem, which fully expresses the feelings 
of the great majority of the people of this county at that time: 

TO THE PORTAGE COUNTY VOLUNTEERS. 

Dear ones, farewell! With trembling voice, and low 

We bid you hasten at a Nation's call! 

How we shall miss you — He alone can know, 

Who bends from Heaven to watch our tear-drops fall, 

The while with close-clasped hands we kneel and pray, 

God's blessing, and his tender care to be 

The shield of those we love — while far away 

With strong, true hearts — they fight for Liberty! 

And yet we hide our pain — and as we take 
Perchance fhe last sweet meaning from proud eyes, 
W^e thank our God that for our country's sake, 
Our woman hearts may make such sacrifice! 
And oh! if, where the star-gem'd bar.ners wave — 
Where sword and spear gleam in the noonday sun, 
One — wildly worshiped — finds an early grave, 
And sleeps in death, ere victory is won; 

Still — though our lips be white as winter's snow. 

Still — though we drink from wasting sorrow's cup 

And die in anguish — not a tear shall flow 

In vain repentance that we gave you up! 

Go! He who rules our Nation's destiny — 

Who whispered "Peace" and the wild waves were still. 

Will lead our loved ones on to victory, 

And give us strength to say again— farewell. 



382 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

During this period of martial excitement another good work was effectually 
pushed forward, which was only second in importance to the raising of volun- 
teers. This was the organization at different points in the county of Relief 
Committees, and the collection of clothing and money for the equipment of 
the volunteers, or the relief of their families. On Friday, April 26, H. Y. 
Beebe, of the Ravenna Relief Committee, having procured in Ravenna a 
sufficient number of blankets to give one to each man in the Tyler Guards 
and Ravenna Light Artillery, took them to Camp Taylor for the buys of those 
commands. Three trunks filled with flannel shirts, lint and bandages, made 
by the women of Ravenna, at the Town Hall, on Saturday and Sunday fol- 
lowing the departure of the volunteers, were also forwarded to Camp Taylor. 
Through the efforts of Mrs. John L. Ranney and Mrs. Beckwith, the women 
raised a fund, purchased a handsome flag for the Tyler Guards, and on the 
30th of April sent it to that company. The citizens of Franklin Mills (Kent), 
headed by Marvin Kent, pledged $5,000 to be paid as needed for the benefit of 
the members and families of the Franklin Mills Rifle Company, each man 
being also provided with a blanket and other camp necessaries by their friends 
at home. 

The Seventh Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, into which the first two 
companies raised in Portage County were mustered, effected the following 
regimental organization on the 2d of May, 18G1: E. B. Tyler, of Ravenna, 
Colonel; William R. Creighton, of Cleveland, Lieutenant-Colonel; John S. 
Casement, of Painesville, Major. 

From this time forward volunteering and recruiting progressed rapidly, 
and every township in the county was soon represented in the Union armies 
by a greater or less number of volunteers. A martial spirit prevailed in 
nearly every household, and each family vied with their neighbors in the 
exhibition of military ardor and patriotism. The war had now begun in earn- 
est, and the most sanguine soon discovered that putting down the great Rebell- 
ion was no holiday task. Most of the three months' men re-enlisted for three 
years, and the places of the few who returned were at once filled from the 
ranks of the many anxiously awaiting at home the call to arms. Thus the 
days passed in Portage County during the first stages of the war, but as 
months lengthened into years, and the many brave boys who, when the tocsin 
of war first sounded, went forth in all their vigorous manhood to do battle for 
their country's unity, came back no more, then indeed was there deep anguish 
and mourning in many a previously happy home. 

The military record of Pox'tage County will compare favorably with any 
other county in Ohio. The census of 1860 gave it a population of 24,208, out 
of which more than 2,000 men went into the army, more than 300 of whom 
laid down their lives as a sacrifice on the altar of their country. According 
to a military record book in the Auditor's office in Ravenna, the following 
number of soldiers was furnished by the several townships of the county: 
Atwater, 107; Aurora, 82; Brimfield, 88; Charlestown, 59; Deertield, 113; 
Edinburg, 46; Franklin, 159; Freedom, 55; Hiram, 120; Mantua, 85; Nel- 
son, 118; Palmyra, 38; Paris, 79; Randolph, 210; Ravenna, 235; Rootstown, 
61; Shalersville, 72; Streetsboro, 96; Suffield, 132; Windham, 115. Total, 
2,070. 

The Seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry, mustered into the three months' 
service at Camp Taylor, near Cleveland, Ohio, April 30, 1861, embraced two 
full companies from this county, F and G, and this regiment subse- 
quently re-enlisted for three years almost to a man. The Forty-first Ohio 
Volunteer Infantry, mustered into the service near Cleveland, Ohio, October 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 383 

31, 1861, was largely recruited from the northern section of Portage County; 
while Companies A and F, of the Forty- second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, 
organized at Camp Chase, near Columbus, Ohio, November 26, 1861, were 
also raised in Portage. The One Hundred and Fourth Ohio Volunteer Infan- 
try, mustered into the service at Camp Massillon, near Massillon, Ohio, August 
30, 1862, contained two companies, D and I, from this county. The 
One Hundred and Twenty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, mustered in at Camp 
Taylor, October 6, 1862, contained one company, D, principally recruited in 
Portage County. The Kavenna Light Artillery, composed of Portage County 
men, went out in April, 1861, and September 25, 1861, was mustered into the 
First Ohio Light Artillery as Battery A, for the term of three years. The 
Sixth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, organized in October, 1861, at Camp Hutchins, 
Warren Co., Ohio, was mostly recruited upon the Western Reserve, Portage 
County being well represented in that gallant regiment. Several other com- 
panies in the foregoing regiments, besides those mentioned, contained soldiers 
from this county, but none were so purely representative of this portion of the 
State as the ones given. 

The brave boys of Portage County went into every arm of the service, and 
nothing illustrates so well their deep devotion to the Union cause as this fact. 
Their patriotism could not wait until they were needed to fill up the decimated 
ranks of the first companies that went into the field, and many left the county 
and joined other commands or branches of the service. We find the county 
represented in the following Ohio Volunteer Infantry Regiments: First, Third, 
Fifth, Sixth, Seventh, Eighth, Ninth, Tenth, Eleventh, Twelfth, Thirteenth, 
Fourteenth, Sixteenth, Seventeenth, Eighteenth, Nineteenth, Twentieth, 
Twenty-first, Twenty-third, Twenty-fifth, Twenty-sixth, Twenty-seventh, 
Twenty-ninth, Thirty-third, Thirty-seventh, Forty-first, Forty-second, Forty- 
third, Forty-fifth, Forty-sixth, Fifty-first, Fifty-second, Fifty -seventh, Fifty- 
eighth, Sixtieth, Sixty-first, Sixty-third, Sixty-fourth, Sixty-fifth, Sixty- 
eighth, Seventy -first, Seventy-second, Eightieth, Eighty-second, Eighty- 
fourth, Eighty-fifth, Eighty sixth, Eighty- eighth, One Hundredth, One Hun- 
dred and First, One Hundred and Third, One Hundred and Fourth, One Hun- 
dred and Fifth, One Hundred and Seventh, One Hundred and Eighth, One 
Hundred and Ninth, One Hundred and Tenth, One Hundred and Eleventh, 
One Hundred and Twelfth, One Hundred and Fourteenth, One Hundred and 
Fifteenth, One Hundred and Eighteenth, One Hundred and Twenty -second, 
One Hundred and Twenty -fourth. One Hundred and Twenty-fifth, One Hun- 
dred and Twenty-sixth, One Hundred and Twenty-seventh (colored), One 
Hundred and Twenty- eighth, One Hundred and Twenty-ninth, One Hundred 
and Thirty-fifth, One Hundred and Thirty-eighth, One Hundred and Forty- 
third, One Hundred and Fiftieth, One Hundred and Seventy-first, One Hun- 
dred and Seventy-seventh, One Hundred and Seventy-eighth, One Hundred 
and Eighty-fourth, One Hundred and Eighty -sixth, One Hundred and Eighty- 
seventh, One Hundred and Eighty-eighth, One Hundred and Ninety-first, One 
Hundred and Ninety -third, One Hundred and Ninety-sixth, One Hundred and 
Ninety-seventh, and One Hundred and Ninety-eighth. Portage County men 
served in the Third, Seventh, Fifteenth and Twenty-second Michigan Infantry 
Regiments, the Fifth Virginia, Fifteenth Pennsylvania, Seventeenth Wiscon- 
sin, Twenty third New York, Seventy-fifth Illinois, Eighty-fifth Indiana, and 
in the First and Twenty-seventh Colored Infantry. The First, Second, Fourth, 
Fifth, Sixth, Seventh,* Ninth, Tenth and Twelfth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry 
Regiments contained many Portage County boys; while the Sixth United States 
Cavalry, the First and Third Michigan Cavalry, the Fifth Pennsylvania, and 



384 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

Sixth Illinois Cavalry had each some men from this county. The county was 
largely represented in the First Ohio Light Artillery, and had a goodly num- 
ber of her sons in the Third, Fourth, Seventh, Ninth, Fourteenth, Fifteenth, 
Sixteenth, Nineteenth, Twenty-fifth and Twenty-sixth Ohio Independent Bat- 
teries; also in the First and Sixth United States, and in the Fifth New York 
and the Eleventh Michigan Artillery Regiments, besides having many of her 
citizens in the United States Marines and Navy. 

The following list of commissioned officers, who were citizens of Portage 
County at the time they entered the service has been compiled from White- 
law Reid's "Ohio In The War." As we have already given in this chapter the 
names and rank of the several officers who went into the three months' service 
from this county, it is unnecessary to again refer to them, and we will, there- 
fore, continue the list after that period: 

Seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry. — Erastus B. Tyler became Colonel June 
19, 18G1, was promoted to Brigadier-General May 20, 1862. Frederick A. 
Seymour became Captain June 14, 1861, was promoted to Major March 2, 
1863, Major's commission revoked, and again issued August 13, 1863, resigned 
March 29, 1864. W'illiam H. Robinson became First Lieutenant June 14, 

1861, and died at Gauley Bridge, W. Va., of typhoid fever, October 8, 1861. 
John B. Rouse became First Lieutenant June 19, 1861, and resigned August 
8, 1861. John Morris became First Lieutenant June 19, 1861, and resigned 
December 5, 1861. Elliott S. Quay became Second Lieutenant June 19, 1861, 
was promoted to First Lieutenant November 30, 1861, subsequently to Assist- 
ant Adjutant-General on Gen. Tyler's stafi' in May, 1862, resigned in October, 

1862, and died at Ravenna, October 20, 1863. A. H. Day became Second 
Lieutenant June 19, 1861, was promoted to First Lieutenant April 1, 1862, 
to Captain November 2, 1862, and resigned January 18, 1863. Seymour S. 
Reed became Second Lieutenant December 12, 1861, was promoted to First 
Lieutenant May 20, 1862, and mustered ovit November ], 1862. Frank John- 
son became Second Lieutenant April 1, 1862, and was killed at Cedar Moun- 
tain AiTgust 9, 1862. Henry M. Dean became Second Lieutenant September 
1, 1862, promoted to First Lieutenant November 1, 1863, and mustered out 
July 6, 1864. H. C. Ranney appointed Assistant Adjutant- General on Gen, 
Tyler's staft' in October, 1862, vice Quay resigned. J. G. Willis appointed 
Quartermaster of the regiment in the fall of 1862, was afterward Brigade 
Quartermaster on Gen. Tyler's staff, and resigned in the fall of 1863. 

Forty-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry. — William B. Hazen, Captain in the 
Eighth United States Infantry, was appointed Colonel of the Forty-first Ohio 
Volunteer Infantry August 7, 1861, and Brigadier- General November 29, 1862, 
which rank he now holds in the Regular Army. C W. Goodsell became Captain 
October 29, 1861, and resigned January 30, 1862. 

Forty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry. — James A. Garfield was appointed 
Colonel August 14, 1861, promoted to Brigadier-General in March, 1862, to 
Major-General in September, 1863, and resigned December 5, 1863. Frederick 
A. Williams became Captain September 20, 1861, was promoted to Major 
March 14, 1862, and died at Ravenna of camp fever July 25, 1862. Horace 
H. Willard became Captain November 18, 1861, and was honorably discharged 
January 3, 1864. Howard S. Bates became First Lieutenant September 20, 
1861, and resigned February 8, 1862. Orlando C. Risdon became First 
Lieutenant October 7, 1861, was appointed Colonel of the Fifty-third United 
States Colored Infantry in May, 1863, and breveted Brigadier-General March 
13, 1865. William H. Clapp became Second Lieutenant September 20, 1861, 
was promoted to First Lieutenant March 14, 1862, and to Captain and Assistant 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 385 

Adjutant -General May 15, 1863, and is now a Captain in the Regular Army. 
Samuel H. Cole became Second Lieutenant October 5, 1861, and resigned 
May 9, 1862. Henry C. Jennings became Second Lieutenant March 9, 1862, 
First Lieutenant December 16, 1863, and resigned as Second Lieutenant. J. 
S. Ross became Second Lieutenant March 14, 1862, was promoted to First 
Lieutenant July 25, 1862, to Captain May 1, 1863, and mustered out September 
80, 1864. Charles E. Henry became Second Lieutenant July 25, 1862, was 
promoted to First Lieutenant May 1, 1863, and mustered out with the regiment 
in the fall of 1864. Horace S. Clark became Second Lieutenant May 25, 
1864, was promoted to First Lieutenant July 25, 1864, and mustered out the 
following autumn. 

Forty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. — Samuel H. Cole became First 
Lieutenant August 12, 1862, and resigned June 17, 1863. Frederick L. 
Dunning became Second Lieutenant February 18, 1864. was promoted to First 
Lieutenant October 12, 1864, and to Captain June 16, 1865, but mustered 
out with the regiment as First Lieutenant June 15, 1865. 

Fifty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. — Henry Boehl became First Lieu- 
tenant January 8. 1862, and resigned November 28, 1862. 

Sixty-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry. — Joseph R. Mell became Second 
Lieutenant January 1, 1863, was promoted to First Lieutenant April 29, 1864 
transferred to the Eighty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry with the same rank 
April 29, 1864, and mustered out with that regiment July 24, 1865. 

Eightieth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. — George F. Robinson became Second 
Lieutenant March 21, 1862, was promoted to First Lieutenant January 15, 
1863, to Captain July 22. 1863, and mustered out March 12, 1865. 

Eighty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. — Edwin L. Webber became Major 
December 31, 1862; was promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel July 25, 1863, and 
mustered out with the regiment July 3, 1865. 

One Hundred and Fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. — Lorin D. Woodworth 
became Major August 9, 1862, and resigned December 9, 1862. Rev. Buel 
Whitney became Chaplain September 10, 1864, and was mustered out with the 
regiment June 17, 1865. John A. Wells became Captain January 26, 1862, 
and resigned March 27, 1863. Marcus C. Horton became Captain November 

21, 1862, and was killed near Dallas. Ga., May 28, 1864. David D. Bard 
became First Lieutenant August 23, 1862, was promoted to Captain May 29, 
1863, and killed at Franklin, Tenn., November 30, 1864. Lewis D. Booth 
became First Lieutenant August 17, 1862, and honorably discharged February 

22, 1864. Edward E. Tracy became Second Lieutenant July 17, 1862, was 
promoted to First Lieutenant February 27, 1864, to Captain January 6, 1865, 
and resigned April 1, 1865. Luther R. Sanford became Second Lieutenant 
August 5, 1862, and died February 26, 1863. William Grinnell was promoted 
from the ranks to Second Lieutenant, and to First Lieutenant March 27, 1863, 
to Captain January 9, 1864, and honorably discharged as First Lieutenant 
May 28, 1864, on account of wounds received at the siege of Knoxville, Tenn. 
Horace L. Reed became Second Lieutenant May 29, 1863, was promoted to 
First Lieutenant August 19, 1864, and mustered out May 15, 1865. G. P. 
Reed was promoted from the ranks to Second Lieutenant August 19, 1864, and 
having lost a leg at Kenesaw Mountain January 11, 1864, was honorably dis- 
charged. 

One Hundred and Twenty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. — Isaac D. Spauld- 
ing became Captain November 11, 1862, and resigned April 6, 1863. Ephraim 
P. Evans became Second Lieutenant September 20, 1862, was promoted to 
First Lieutenant April 23, 1863, to Captain July 13, 1864, and was killed in 



386 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

battle. Freeman Collins became Second Lieutenant March 3, 1SG4, and was 
killed at Kenesaw Mountain June 27, 1864. 

One Hundred and Twenty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. — George M. 
Phillips became Second Lieutenant November 23, 1863, was promoted to First 
Lieutenant March 29, 1865, and mustered out with the regiment July 17, 1865. 
Lewis R. Ranney became Second Lieutenant March 29, 1865, and was mus- 
tered out with the regiment July 17 following his promotion. 

One Hundred and Seventy-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry ( National Guards). — 
Surgeon, Fred C. Applegate, May 7, 1864; Capt., Cyrus A. Mason, May 5,1864; 
Second Lieut., A.W. Alcorn, May 5, 1864; and Second Lieut., Frank H. Snow, 
May 5, 1864, all of whom were mustered out with the regiment August 20, 
1864. 

First Ohio Volunteer Light Artillery. — Charles S. Cotter became Captain 
August 5, 1861, was promoted to Major June 9, 1862, to Lieutenant-Colonel 
October 20, 1864, to Colonel November 26, 1864, and discharged August 10, 
1865. Albert L. Beckley became First Lieutenant August 5, 1861, and resigned 
April 24, 1862. Charles G. Mason became Second Lieutenant August 5, 1861, 
was promoted to First Lieutenant March 12, 1862, and resigned April 26,1862. 
Allen W. Pinney became Second Lieutenant August 5, 1861, and resigned 
March 15, 1862. Joseph D. King became First Lieutenant March 13, 1862, 
and was honorably discharged November 14, 1862. Edmund B. Belding 
became Second Lieutenant March 12, 1862, was promoted to First Lieutenant 
April 24, 1862, to Captain October 20, 1864, and mustered out with Battery E 
July 22, 1865. Charles W. Scoville became Second Lieutenant March 15,1862, 
was promoted to First Lieutenant June 9, 1862, to Captain October 20, 1864, 
and mustered out with Battery A July 31, 1865. Roland G. Day became Sec- 
ond Lieutenant April 26, 1862, was promoted to First Lieutenant March 3, 

1864, and mustered out with Battery B July 22, 1866. Clark Scripture became 
Second Lieutenant November 14, 1862, was promoted to First Lieutenant 
April 13, 1864, and mustered out with Battery E July 22, 1865. B. K. Davis 
became Second Lieutenant March 30, 1863, was promoted to First Lieutenant 
May 2, 1865, and mustered out with Battery I July 24, 1865. Lewis B. Max- 
well became Second Lieutenant May 2, 1865, and was mustered out with Bat- 
tery H June 14, 1865. 

Sixth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry. — William Stedman became Major October 
21, 1861, was promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel August 3, 1863, to Colonel Jan- 
uary 1, 1864, mustered out October 6, 1864, and breveted Brigadier-General 
March 13, 1865. William H. Bettes became First Lieutenant December 16, 
1861, and resigned March 23, 1862. E. S. Austin became First Lieutenant 
January 29, 1863, was promoted to Captain May 9, 1864, and killed at 
Hutchin's Run, October 27, 1864. 

Charles H. Bill became Second Lieutenant in the Second Ohio Volunteer 
Cavalry July 15, 1862, First Lieutenant May 19, 1863, Captain May 11, 

1865, and w^as mustered out September 11, 1865. B. T. Spelman became 
Captain in the Tenth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry January 15, 1863, and resigned 
May 31, 1864. William H. Smith became Second Lieutenant in the Four- 
teenth Ohio Battery September 10, 1861, and resigned April 16, 1862. 

Fifty-third United States Colored Infantry. — First Lieutenant Orlando C. 
Risdon, of the Forty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, was appointed Colonel 
of the Fifty-third in May, 1863, and breveted Brigadier-General March 13, 
1865. M. H. Judd and Isaac R. Barton were appointed Captains of the same 
regiment. All these officers were from Shalersville Township. 

Capt. Clifton Bennett, of Freedom Township, served in the First United 



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HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 389 

States Colored Regiment, and Second Lieut. D. L. Rockwell in the One Hun- 
dred and Twenty-seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry, which w^s also composed 
of colored soldiers. 

The following summary of the money paid out by Portage County during 
the war for war purposes furnishes one of the strongest arguments toward 
demonstrating the earnestness displayed bv her citizens in the Union cause: 
She expended as a " War Fund" inl862/^3,737.19; 1863, $3,956.48; 1864, 
$1,239.28; 1865. $1,292.75. Total " War Fund," $10,225.70. The "Relief 
Fund for Families of Volunteers" paid out was, in 1862, $6,354.79; 1863, 
$11,278.81; 1864, $24,556.95; 1865, $25,855.06. Total "Relief Fund," 
$68,045.61. The "Soldiers' Bounty Tax," was, in 1863, $11,240.65; 1864, 
$38.13; 1865, $76,878.63. Total "Bounty Tax?' $88,157.41; making the 
combined public expenditures for war purposes, from 1861 to 1865 inclusive, 
reach a grand total of $166,428.72, or about $6.85 for every man, woman and 
child then residing in the county. And this was not all, for from the close of 
the war up to the present the several townships have continued to levy a tax, 
when necessary, to pay bounties to soldiers who have not received but are 
entitled tu them. 

The closing scenes of the great struggle aroused all over the North much 
of the same spirit of excitement that characterized its early stages. The 
people of Portage County manifested no slight interest in the stirring events 
of each day, and the good news of victories won was welcomed with the most 
profound sentiments of joy. The fall of Richmond and its occupation by 
Grant's forces, was duly celebrated by a large gathering at Ravenna on Tues- 
day evening, April 4, 1865. Speeches were made, patriotic songs were sung, 
bonfires blazed, cannon belched forth their deep toned hallelujahs, and the 
peojDle truly rejoiced over the glorious news. Upon Friday afternoon, April 
7, when the news of the deeds of the gallant Phil Sheridan, "On whose bright 
plume of fame not a spot o' the dark is," was announced at Ravenna, and the 
brilliant captures his army had made were briefly detailed, the excitement was 
intense. Bells were rung, drums beaten, minute guns fired, flags flashed out 
from every available point, business was suspended, and all suri'endered to 
the jubilant spirit of the hour. At Franklin Mills (Kent), Garrettsvillo, and 
in nearly every township in the county, as the glad tidings made their way, 
similar demonstrations took place over the success of the Union armies. The 
following poem very appropriately illustrates the spirit then uppermost in 
the hearts of the people: 

RICHMOND IS OURS! 

Richmond is ours! Richmond is ours! 

Hark! to the jubilant chorus! 
Up, through the lips that no longer repress it, 
Up, from the heart of the people! God bless it! 

Swelling with loyal emotion, 

Leapeth our joy, like an ocean! — 
Richmond is ours! Richmond is ours! 
Babylon falls, and her temples and towers 

Crumble to ashes before us! 

Glory to Grant! Glory to Grant! 

Hark! to the shout of our Nation! 
Up, from the Irish heart, up from the German — 
Glory to Sheridan! — Glory to Sherman! — 

Up, from all peoples uniting — 

Freedom's high loyalty plighting— 
Glory to all! Glory to all!— 
Heroes who combat, and martyrs who fall! 

Lift we our joyous ovation! 



390 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

Fling out the flag! Flash out the flag! 

tip from each turret and steeple! 
^p, from the cottage, and over the mansion, 
Fling out the symbol of Freedom's expansion! 

Victory crowneth endeavor! 

Liberty seals us forever! 
Up from each valley, and out from each crag. 
Fling out the flag! Flash out the flag! 

Borne on the breath of the people! 

Richmond is ours! Richmond is ours! 

Hark! how the welkin is riven! 
Hark! to the joy that our Nation convulses, 
Timing all hearts to the cannon's loud pulses; 

Voices of« heroes ascending, 

Voices of martyred ones blending; 
Mingling like watchwords on Liberty's towers, 
Richmond is ours! Richmond is ours! 
Freedom rejoiceth in Heaven! 

A. J. H. DUGANNE. 

The masses of the people of Ohio exhibited a grand self-sacrificing devotion 
and fervor in the support of the Government and the overthrow of the Rebell- 
ion, and the God of battles and of justice blessed them in their noble efforts 
and their unselfish sacrifices. With the surrender of Lee at Appomattox 
Court House, April 9, 1865, one of the greatest of modern wars was virtually 
ended. The news of the surrender was received by the loyal people of the 
North with the greatest demonstrations of joy. Gov. Brough, of Ohio, in har- 
mony with President Lincoln's proclamation, recommended that Friday, April 
14, the anniversary of the fall of Sumter, be observed in this State as a day of 
thanksgiving and general rejoicing; that religious assemblages mark the day, 
the evening to be given up to bonfires, illuminations, tiring of salutes, public 
meetings, and such other manifestations as would appropriately celebrate the 
heroic deeds of the armies and the general joy of the people over the dawn of 
a glorious peace. In pursuance to this proclamation the day was observed in 
Ravenna and many other points in Portage County by the general suspension 
of business, religious services and evening demonstrations. The Committee 
of Arrangements of the Ravenna celebration were H. Y. Beebe, L. C. Dodge, 
H. C. Ranney and J. H. Terry, under whose directions the affair was planned 
and carried out. As the shadows of evening drew on, the ringing of bells, 
booming of cannon and music of the band announced the commencement of the 
programme that was to fittingly close the day. At the conclusion of a salute 
of fifty guns — the number with which Maj. Robert Anderson saluted his flag 
as he withdrew from Fort Sumter four years before — a very fine display of fire- 
works took place. The people then assembled in front of the Court House, 
where speeches were made and patriotic songs indulged in. An immense bon- 
fire was lighted on the public square, and amid the cheering of the assembled 
hundreds, and the stirring notes of the band, the ceremonies of that historic 
day were concluded. 

On the 14th of April, 1861, Maj. Robert Anderson and his patriot band 
lowered the National flag at Fort Sumter; but on the 14th of April, 1865, he 
raised over the battered walls of that fort the same identical flag that at the 
bidding of a rebel foe four years before was trailed in the dust. In 1861 the 
South asserted the right to throw off her allegiance to the United States 
Government; but in four short years she lay at the mercy of the victors, shat- 
tered and bleeding from every pore, thousands of her sons slain, her cities 
sacked and burned, and her four millions of slaves proclaimed freemen, in 
all of which may be traced the finger of an Omnipotent God. 



HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 391 

The graad operations of the Union armies had brought victories most sig- 
nal, and the last great battle had been fought and won. The glad tidino-s 
multiplied. The brave, the strong, the hopeful, the faint-hearted and indif- 
ferent, all participated in the inspiration of the great Union triumphs. The 
sun of the Nation's destiny rode in a cloudless sky. 

"But e're our songs had died away. 

Our triumphs o'er our foes, 
There comes a knell to every heart. 
That speaks a Nation's woes." 

An appalling sorrow suddenly overshadowed the land, which throughout 
its length and breadth became as a house of mourners. The beloved Lincoln 
was dead — assassinated ! The heart that dictated and the hand that penned 
the immortal proclamation of freedom were pulseless forever. The plain, 
unassuming man, whose gentle virtues, pure and unselfish patriotism, clear 
intellect and honest heart, made him emphatically the soul of the Nation, had 
finished the work which the Master had given him to do. Strong men were 
stricken speechless. In all the many bitter sorrows of the previous four years, 
none proved so startling and horrible as this, and every true heart was filled 
with consternation at the inhuman desperation of the crime. 

The succeeding days in Portage County were days of sadness and gloom, 
and everywhere might be seen the insignia of deep mourning. On Wednes- 
day, April 19, Ravenna foi-med one poiut in the long line of mourners, who, 
from one end of the country to the other, assembled at the same hour to make 
public expression of their sorrow over the death of the President. At 
an early hour in the morning all places of business were closed for the day. 
The public buildings and business hoiises were heavily draped, and on every 
hand was displayed the emblem of sorrow. Draped flags were placed at half 
mast, and though there was no ostentation or parade, the people of this county 
bore witness to their deep sorrow at the Nation's bereavement. The public 
exercises of the day at Ravenna took place in front of the Court House, and were 
attended by one of the largest audiences ever assembled in the town. Rev. J. 
E. Wilson was chosen by the Committee of Arrangements to preside. The 
invocation was pronounced by Rev. J. G. Hall, after which the people joined 
in singing, "God moves in a mysterious way." A prayer was then offered by 
the Rev. Mason, and Rev. Tribby read selected portions of the Scriptures. 
Appropriate and touching addresses were next delivered by Rev. J. E. Wilson, 
Hon. Alphonso Hart, Revs. Mason and Tribby and Hon. Philo B. Conant. 
After singing and prayer, the benediction was given by Rev. Wilson, and the 
large audience quietly dispersed to their homes. The occasion was one of deep 
solemnity, and every breath seemed to whisper, "This is the funeral day of 
Abraham Lincoln." The events of those days cannot easily be forgotten, and 
the impression made by the assassination of Lincoln, so closely associated as it 
was with the great Rebellion, can never be effaced from the memory of the Nation. 



392 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 



CHAPTER XIV.'J "-, 
ATWATER TOWNSHIP. 

Arrival of Atwater and Others — Early Privations— Birth of First 
Child— Another Lone Settler— Organization— Marriages and Deaths 
—Some Old and New Things— An Ancient Mfsket— Early Churches 
AND Preacheus—Schools— Newspapers— Industries, Etc.— Officers and 
Statistics. 

ATWATER is one of tlie five townships in which a settlement was made as 
early as June, 1799, and is second only to Mantua, which antedated 
Atwater only about six months. The township was laid off in the surveys as 
Town 1, Range 7, which fell to the lot, as well as two or three other town- 
ships and parts of townships, of Capt. Caleb Atwater, one of the original pro- 
prietors of the W^estern Reserve. He gave this township to his only son, 
Joshua Atwater, who, however, did not visit his land till 1805. 

In April, 1799, Capt. Caleb Atwater, in company with Jonathan Merrick, 
Peter Bunnell, Asahel Blakesley and Asa Hall and his wife, left Wallingford, 
Conn., and after a long and tedious journey arrived in what is now the town- 
ship of Atwater. The entire party remained till the following fall, when they 
all returned to the East with the exception of Asa Hall and wife, who came 
for permanent settlement, and having put up a cabin during the spring, settled 
down to make themselves as comfortable as the circumstances would admit, 
and from that time till the spring of 1801 they were the only white persons 
living in the township; in fact, there were only six or seven other settlers in 
the entire county, there being one in Mantua, one in Ravenna, one in Aurora, 
one or two in Deerfield, and one in Palmyra; his nearest neighbor being Lewis 
Ely, in Deerfield. 

As soon as the party of Capt. Atwater arrived they began surveying the 
township into lots and laying out roads, and many were the hardships encoun- 
tered by those hardy old adventurers, but they were made of the material and 
had the wills to withstand all the privations with which they came in contact. 
Shortly after their arrival the horses of the party broke loose and ran off into 
the dense forest. Jonathan Merrick started after them in the morning, but 
soon became lost in the woods, and wandered around till evening, when he 
found himself on the banks of the Mahoning, near the southeast corner of the 
township. The next day he continued his search, but with no luck, and still 
not knowing exactly where he was, but on the third day had better success, 
reaching camp in the afternoon. He was almost exhausted with fatigue and 
hunger, and had been given up by his companions, who thought he must have 
been devoured by wild beasts, or killed by some roving band of Indians. 

An event occurred early in 1800 that enlivened matters considerably in the 
Hall household. A child was born, and this first little visitor was named 
Atwater, in honor of the proprietor. This was the first birth in the county. 

About the time Hall moved away from the Center, David Baldwin. Jr., 
came in and settled two miles south of the Center. He came on the 20th of 
June, 1801, and v/as from Wallingford, Conn., where his father had removed 
from Massachusetts. For the next three years Baldwin and Hall and their 



ATWATER TOWNSHIP. 393 

families were the only persons in the township, and they lived five miles apart. 
During the first few years flonr, or rather meal, and provisions were extremely 
hard to get. They had to go to Smith's Ferry, forty-five miles, to a grist- 
mill, and as for shoes, the children of those times in this locality never 
had a pair on their feet till they were nearly grown. Baldwin was the agent 
of Capt. Atwater, and was a man highly respected by all who came in contact 
with him. In 1802 a child was born to David Baldwin, and this child is 
now the hale and hearty old gentleman of eighty-two years, Maj. Ransom Bald- 
win, he being the second born in the township, and the oldest and only 
person near his age now living inside the county upon the spot where born. 
The Major is well preserved in all his faculties, and has filled several honora- 
ble positions during his long life, notably that of Major of the Independent 
Rifles. 

After a journey of nearly six weeks from Connecticut, there arrived, Novem- 
ber- 1, 1S04, a party consisting of David Baldwin, Sr., Moses Baldwin, his son, 
and Theophilus Anthony, Capt. Joseph Hart arriving soon after. Anthony 
settled in the southern part of the township, and cleared up a tine farm, the 
first plow he used being brought from Suffield on his back. Hart settled at 
the Center, and raised the first frame barn, which was the first frame erected 
in the township. A frame saw- mill Avas erected about the same time. 

In 1805 the then proprietor of the township, Deacon Joshua Atwater, 
with Josiah Mix, Jr., came to the township from Connecticut, having ridden 
all the way on horseback. This was the first visit of Deacon Atwater to the 
township. Mix returned in the fall to his home in the East, but in the spring 
following came out again on foot, in company with Jeremiah Jones, the latter 
gentleman afterward becoming a Magistrate, and the best commentary on 
whose official course is the fact that but one appeal was taken from his decis- 
ions to the County Court. 

The year 1806 brought several persons into the township who very materi- 
ally helped to shape the future of the community. In addition to Jeremiah 
Jones and Josiah Mix, came John H. Whittlesey, Asahel Blakesley, Caleb 
Mattoon and Ira and Amos Morse. Blakesley, who was one of the party who 
came out in 1799, was the only one to return to the West, but having married 
in the meantime, bi'ought his wife and three children. 

The year 1807 saw quite a number of new settlers, as at that time came 
William Strong and family from Durham, Conn., who erected the first frame 
house in Atwater. He enlisted in the war of 1812, and died at Black Rock. 
Also came Capt. James Webber, who is now ninety years of age, being brought 
out when a boy of about twelve years, Jared Scranton and one or two others 
from the East. At this time a number came in from South Carolina, who set- 
tied in the southwest part of the township, includiag Enos Davis, who brought 
a son about ten years old, Isaac Davis, who is now living at the advanced age 
of eighty-nine years, William Marshall, John Hutton, John Campbell and 
some others. William Marshall was a stone mason, and had helped to build 
Fort Sumter; he brought two mason's picks with him used in that work. 

In 1810, the township being attached to Deerfield, which had been organ- 
ized several years before, David Baldwin, Jr., was elected Justice of the 
Peace, receiving his commission from Gov. Huntington. The first entry on 
the docket of the Squire was April 1. 1811, in a case of debt and damage, 
being Lewis Day vs. Lewis Ely, which was, however, settled by arbitration. 
The first trial before him occurred the following fall. Petition having been 
made and granted, the township was organized, and the first election held 
April 3, 1815, at the store of Elkanah Morse, which resulted in the election of 



394 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

Ira Morse, Justice of the Peace ;\ Jeremiah Jones, \Town Clerk; Gideon Chitten- 
den, Joseph Marshall, Amos Morse, Trustees; David Baldwin, Jr., Caleb 
Mattoon, Overseers of the Poor; Ira Mansfield, Charles Chittenden, Fence 
Viewers; John H. Whittlesey, Josiah Mix. David Baldwin, Jr., Supervisors; 
Almon Chittenden, Constable; David Baldwin, Jr., Treasurer, which office 
the latter held for twenty- one years; he died on the 23d of December, 1837, 
after a long and useful life. 

The first marriage that occurred in the township was solemnized January 
28, 1807, the parties being Josiah Mix, Jr., and Sally Mattoon; Lewis Day, 
of Deertield, officiated. On the 23d of April Jared Scranton and Phoebe 
Matoon united their fortunes, and Day also officiated. The next fall Moses 
Baldwin and Nancy Burns were married. In the spring of 1808 Maria Strong, 
daughter of William Strong, died, at the age of seven years, and her grave 
was the fii'st in the little cemetery at the southwest corner of the Center. In 
the fall following, on September 1, 1808, David Baldwin died. 

The first sheep brought to the township were procured at Georgetown by 
John H. Whittlesey and Jeremiah Jones, who on their trip to the point named, 
while traveling through the dense forest, came upon and captured an immense 
bear, to which they got close enough to strike with a club on the nose. They 
brought twelve sheep and the bear back with them, but were in a dilemma how 
to keep the sheep from wolves, until Mr. Whittlesey thought of fencing off 
part of his kitchen. 

The first mill was put up by Asa Hall, on Yellow Creek, in the northeast 
part of the township, which was, possibly, the greatest acquisition then made 
to the township. 

John Norton, who lives one mile and one- fourth north of the Center, and 
whose father, Jerry Norton, came from Durham, Conn., in 1812, has in his 
possession a musket that no doubt has the history that its possessor gives of 
it. Mr. Norton says that it belonged to his father's great-grandfather, and 
that it came over in the Mayflower in 1620. It was five feet, six and one-half 
inches in length, but has had four or five inches cut from it. No gun of the 
character of this one has been made later than 250 years, and it is precisely 
like one or two others that came over in the Mayflower, now owned by New 
England families, who possess indisputable evidence in regard to them. 

Maj. Ransom Baldwin has a powder horn that was carried through the 
Revolutionary struggle. The first Postmaster in the township was Caleb 
Atwater, a grandson of the original proprietor. Charles Bradley, Sr., who is 
ninety-two years of age, is the oldest man in the township. 

" The Queen of the Harem," Amelia Folsome, one of the wives of Brigham 
Young, was born in Buffalo, and settled at Atwater Station with her parents, 
who were Mormons, previous to leaving for Nauvoo, 111. 

Mrs. Susan Carter (widow of James Carter, who is supposed to have been 
murdered and his body subsequently placed on the track,) was killed by a pass- 
ing train in December, 1884, near Atwater. 

On January 3, 1885, Dr. Bevington, of Fx*eedom, was killed and Miss Eva 
Elliott nearly killed by a train on this road just north at Atwater Station. 

Early Churches and Preachers. — The first sermon preached by a Presbyterian 
minister in the township is supposed to have been one delivered by Rev. Leslie, 
at the house of Maj. Mansfield, in 1808, which may have been in the spring or 
summer, as Rev. Mr. Scott, a Presbyterian minister, preached the funeral ser- 
mon of David Baldwin, Sr., in September of the year named. In 1806 a 
Rev. Mr. Ely visited the settlement and preached regularly that year. A 
number of ministers visited the township at different times, until 1812, when 



ATWATER TOWNSHIP. 395 

Deacon Ozias Norton came in and began holding services in a small log-house 
at the Center. About this time an event occurred that gave evidence that 
those early worshipers had not lost their patriotism, for on one Saturday they 
received notice that nearly all the able bodied men would be required to 
march to the seat of war on Monday, so the son of Deacon Norton mended all 
their shoes, and the women made their knapsacks on the Sabbath. In 1813 
Deacon Norton left, and from that time till 1816, when his place was filled by 
Deacon Jonathan Baldwin, the spiritual wants of the settlers were sup- 
plied by missionaries who would visit occasionally. No regular services were 
held, however, till 1818, when, according to previous notice, on the 20th of 
March a little band assembled at the house of Sylvester Baldwin, which was 
organized into a church, Revs. Caleb Pitkin, William Hanford and Joseph 
Treat officiating. After a sermon by Rev. Treat, eleven persons were formed 
into a church, namely: Deacon Jonathan Baldwin and wife, Aaron Baldwin 
and wife, Joseph C. Baldwin and wife, Sylvester Baldwin and wife, John H. 
Whittlesey and wife, and Mrs. Rachel Norton. Meetings were held in various 
houses and in a log-schoolhouse 'until 1822, when a small brick church was 
erected a few rods from where the present church now stands, which was used 
till the elegant and commodious edifice that now adorns the Center was dedi- 
cated, that event occurring November 7, 1841, Px^of . Hickox preaching the 
dedicatory sermon. Rev. E. C. Sharp became the regular pastor June 1, 1842, 
and for upward of a quarter of a century continued in charge of the church, 
dying in 1867. Rev. John Field preached one year as stated supply in the 
little brick church about 1824. 

The old Methodist Church of the Center, built in 1821 near the Center 
Square, is now used as a barn by J. M. White, one mile and a fourth south of 
the Center. The first preaching of the Methodist Episcopal Church was at 
the Josiah Mix homestead. The next house of worship at the Center was a 
schoolhouse purchased by the society. Then the building now used as a 
town hall was erected and used until sold for $800 to the town. With this 
$800 and subscriptions a new building was erected at Atwater Station, four- 
teen years ago, and dedicated by Rev. Moses Hill. The preachers since that 
time were B. F. Wade, Rev. John Brown, George Elliott, Sherwood, James 
Axell, Mark McCaslin, C. H. Merchant, and Moore, the present pastor. There 
are about fifty members. The land on which the church stands was donated 
by J. H. Whittlesey, and Mr. Hillyer donated about $3,000. This building, 
when finished, was paid for and dedicated. 

Holy Teinne Dutch Reformed Lutheran Church, of Atwater, was organized 
as a society, under State Law, December 7, 1850, and elected Michael Jaiser, 
C. Reichke, and James Miller, Trustees, and Jacob Rotman, Clerk. This 
church is two and a half miles south of the Center, and is one of the old reli- 
gious associations of the county. 

The first school is supposed to have been taught by Mrs. Almon Chittenden 
in 1806-07, at the Center, in a little log-house that is now gone. Another is 
said to have been taught about 1809 in the southwestern portion of the town- 
ship, but the exact location and the old pioneer teacher are now numbered 
among the forgotten things. The condition of the schools of this township 
in August, 1884, is shown by the following statistics: 214 boys and 193 girls 
enrolled in primary scho(jl. Total revenue, $3,445.09; paid teachers, $2,275.75; 
number of schoolhouses, 9; valued at $7,000. Average monthly pay of male 
teachers, $39; of female teachers, $21. 

The Sharp Sickle was published at Atwater by William Hicks up to the 
time of the editor's death in 1879. The press used in the office is now in 



396 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

possession of William Stratton. The Atwater News was issued in July, 1884, 
and ceased after the publication of a few numbers. Owing to the fact that 
the A^eR's was'printed at Alliance, full postal rates were collected here. This 
was one of the main reasons for discontinuing this journal. 

The Atwater Choral Union, one of the oldest musical associations in the 
county has 100 members. E. E. Heiser is Secretary and Dr. O. A. Lyon, 
President. Prof. R. Griffiths, of Akron, is Conductor. 

The first hotel at the Station was opened by Mrs. Massie White, in a house 
built by Joel Haugh. Mrs. White conducted the house for some years, under 
the name of the Colouade, now the Atwater House, which is at present oper- 
ated by Abram Huffman. In 1881 Abram Huffman opened a hotel in a house 
which he built opposite the present Atwater House. The American House is 
also conducted as a hotel, with W. A. Loomis, proprietor. Wells Hillyar 
conducted a hotel at the Center for many years. There was also another house 
opened there and conducted for a time. 

The Atwater Stone-ware Company's Works were established by Pardee & 
Loomis, and a company was organized February 22, 1871, with A. W. 
Loomis, J. E. Conrad, Joseph T. French, E. M. Chapman and Joseph Peck, 
members. The capital stock was $50,000. This Company went into liquida- 
tion, and the works were suspended, until purchased by George Stroup. The 
value of buildings and plant is placed at 14,000, and of annual product 
$9,000. This industiy gives employment to ten men. 

Atwater Coal Company was organized May 1, 1871, with George L. Inger- 
soll, S. A. Fuller, A. K. Spencer, John Hutchins, J. E. Ingersoll and J. C. 
Hutchins, for the purpose of mining and selling coal, building railroads, etc., 
etc. The capital was $300,000 in $100 shai-es. In July, 1873, the stock was 
reduced to $100,000. An explosion in the mines of this company killed ten 
men a short time after the opening of the works. Since that time the 
mine has been closed down. Another coal bank is operated by Wool ford 
on the Spires coal land. John Spires & Sons' pottery was established by 
Pardee & Husted on lands belonging to Mr. Hillyer. William F. Burns 
operated the works until his death. The present owners have operated the 
works since 1878. This industry gives employment to twelve men annually. 
The capacity is 6,000 gallons of stone-ware per week or about 1,000 tons of 
clay annually. The value of annual product ranges abou*- $7,000 or $8,000 
per year. The market for both stone-ware and tile (the latter manufactured at 
the works three and a half miles east of Atwater Station), extends over the 
Eastern and Western States. O. J. Ellison is Superintendent of the ware 
works at Atwater Station. 

A saw-mill was erected by Capt. Hart in 1805, which was the pioneer man- 
ufacturing industry. Many of the pioneers believe that this mill was on the 
town line, and. the same which Abel I. Hall conducted subsequently. 

George Stroup's saw-mill, one and one-fourth miles north of the Station, 
was established and operated by Stacey Dole about thirty-two years ago, as a 
muley-mill. This is novv operated by Mr. Stroup of the Atwater stone-ware 
works. 

David Glass operates a steam saw-mill and grist-mill just north of tlie 
Center. This was built by Grannis & Co., and run by cattle-power. Grannis 
also operated a grist-mill at this point. 

The Spires' saw-mill, three and a half miles east, was constructed by John 
Spires sixteen years ago. The capacity is stated at 10,000 feet per day. 
Th'^re is a planing-mill in connection with this saw-mill. 

Stanford & Mendenhall, the undertakers at Atwater Station, furnished, 



4. 



4' 



>^?-^5^ ^^^^^s^ y $; 



■.# 





A^a^^t' *^' 




ATWATER TOWNSHIP. 399 

during the year 1884, seventy-five caskets, and attended a like number of 
burial services. Their business calls them to visit the cemeteries of Atwater, 
Kandolph, Rootstown, Edinburg, Palmyra, Deertield, Berlin, North Benton, 
Suf6eld, and Marlboro. 

Homer Hillyer was appointed first railroad agent in July, 1851. The 
first shipment was a lot of cheese from B. Huff, who procured it from his 
brother's factory at Rootstown. This was shipped to Granville, but Huff never 
received the price of the goods. What is now the VChomas & Jones ^lacksmith 
shop was a portion of the first depot. In January, 1884, Mr. Hillyer retired, 
when Daniel Townsend, the present agent, was appointed. The shipments 
from Atwater Station per month are 161 tons, principally stone- ware and 
butter. 

In addition to the industries named above are William Stoutberger's 
wagon shop at the Center, and a carriage shop, marble shop and two black- 
smith shops at the Station. The mercantile circle is made up of J. H. Green 
& Co. and Webber & Webber at the Center, and Baith & Jackson at the Sta- 
tion; H. H. Woolf's hardware, Stanford & Co.'s furniture store, and W. T. 
McConney's drug store at the Station, and Craig Bros.' agricultural imple- 
ment warehouse southwest of the Station. Rev. Rosswell Chapin, Con- 
gregational Church, Rev. Moore, Methodist Church, Dr. E. Warrington, Dr. O. 
A. Lyon, and Dental Surgeon W. A. Loomis, represent the pi'ofessions in the 
township. Clarence Green is Postmaster at the Center, and A. V. Willsey 
at the Station. 

There is in the township a fine coal deposit opened, entitled " Murehead 
Coal Bank," proprietor Charles Murehead, which usually runs about eight or 
ten men; a steam saw-mill one mile north of the Station, and a Sweitzer kase 
factory, Jacob Matti, proprietor. 

Township Officers. — Trustees: Edgar Whittlesey, W. T. Mendenhall, 
Levi Heiser; Clerk, B. F. Hathaway; Treasurer, E. T. Goodman, Assessor, 
Abner Hoskins; Constables, Charles Goodman, William Baith; Justices of the 
Peace, H. H. W^oolf, S. A. Hinman. 

Atwater furnished for the service of their country in the war for the Union, 
seventy-two eoldiers, fourteen of whom laid down their lives, and four were 
disabled. 

The country is strictly agricultural, and the land is first class, tolerably well 
watered and gently rolling. The Cleveland & Pittsburgh Branch of the great 
Pennsylvania system of railways affords an excellent shipping point at Atwater 
Station for the products of the township. 

The statistics of Atwater Township for 1884 are: 97G acres of wheat pro- 
duced 17,016 bushels; 5 acres of rye produced 15 bushels; 7 acres of buck- 
wheat, 53 bushels; 679 acres of oats, 25,649 bushels; no barley; 481 acres 
of corn, 4,423' bushels; 1,558 acres of meadow, 2,400 tons of hay; 114 
acres of clover, 180 tons of hay and 31 bushels of seed; no fiax; 26 acres of 
potatoes, 4,936 bushels; no tobacco; butter, 41,677 lbs.; maple sugar, 1,333 
lbs.; 5,089 gallons syrup from 29,820 tr§es; 84 hives, 3,095 Ibs.fhoney; 5,779 
dozens of eggs; 6,520 bushels apples; 582 bushels peaches; 12 bushels pears; 
50 bushels plums; 10,795 lbs. wool; 289 milch cows; 3 stallions; 113 dogs; 8 
sheep killed and injured by dogs; 7 hogs, 46 sheep, 22 cattle and 4 horses died 
from diseases; 5,432 acres cultivated; 5,409 pasture; 2797 forest; 10 acres 
waste; total acres, 13,648. The population in 1850, 1,119, including 391 youth; 
in 1870 was 1,180; in 1880, 1,147; now over 1,200. 



400 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 



CHAPTER XV. 

AUEORA TOWNSHIP. 

Ebenezer Sheldon— First Legal Business— A Lonely Couple— A Model 
Pioneer Wife— Other Settlers— Early Hardships— Organization— The 
Methodist Circuit Rider— First Churcei and Schools— First Birth 
and Death and Other First Things— Hunters and Hunting Stories- 
Early Facts— A Small Meeting with Large Results— Churches and 
Schools— Business, etc.— Statistics. 

AURORA is known in the surveys as Town 5, Range 9. The original 
proprietors were David, Ebenezer and Fidelio King and Martyn 
Sheldon; John Leavitt, Gideon Granger and Ebenezer Sheldon, Jr., also 
had interests. 

The first white man to enter the township for settlement was Ebenezer 
Sheldon, of Suffield, Conn., who arrived in his future far Western home in 
June, 1799. He selected Lot 40, and with the assistance of Elias Harmon and 
his wife commenced a clearing and made preparations for a small crop. Har- 
mon and wife came in the same month as Sheldon, and were employed by him. 
Mrs. Harmon was the first white woman to come into the township, but after 
getting through with their job they moved to Mantua. Sheldon returned to 
Connecticut, and in the following spring (1800) brought out his wife, four sons 
and two daughters. They came all the way with an ox- team and a pair of 
horses, and a small, rude wagon. After arriving at W^arren they rested over 
night, but the next day started across the wilderness of woods, and were over- 
taken by what we would now call a moderate cyclone. The wind tore up 
immense trees by the roots and split and splintered them and threw them about 
in such a manner that Sheldon and his wagons were penned in. They had to 
remain in their perilous situation all night, and were only released by getting 
assistance and cutting a road out. But Sheldon was of that sturdy race of 
pioneers, those grand old heroes to whose daring, perseverance and endurance 
we owe the settlement of this splendid Western country, so he quietly settled 
down on his place, built a log-cabin, put out his crop and lived there the bal- 
ance of his days. 

In the spring of 1801 St. Clair, Governor of the Northwest, appointed Mr. 
Sheldon Justice of the Peace, but the duties for the first three years, at least, 
were not very onerous; in fact, the only official act performed during that 
time by the Squire was marrying his daughter Huldah to Amzi Atwater, of 
Mantua, November 21, 1801. Sheldon used to say, facetiously, that he often 
tried, during the first few years of his official career, to kick up a fuss with 
his wife, in oi'der to make business, but that she always got the upper hand of 
him. Mrs. Sheldon was one of those women that nature seems to provide for 
certain emergencies and conditions. She was large and healthy, and of great 
strength of character, besides being more than ordinarily handsome and intel- 
ligent, and although dignified in appearance and manner, had a flow of spirits 
and a buoyancy of disposition that seemed almost essential in the lonesome 
wilderness to keep up the courage and determination of tbe sterner sex. She 
used to tell her husband during those three years when they were the only 



AURORA TOWNSHIP. 401 

family in Aurora, and whea anything would perplex him, that his wife was 
"the smartest and best-looking woman in the township," and well she might 
have thus boasted, for it was many a long day, even after the township became 
more thickly settled, that she had an equal, much less a superior. After the 
death of her husband, which occurred in August, 1829, she made her home 
with her daughter Huldah, in Mantua, and died December 11, 1846, aged 
eighty-six years. 

In 1803 Samuel Forward came in from Granby, Conn., bringing several 
sons and daughters, and settling on Lot 18, where Gen. Nelson Eggleston now 
resides at the Center. His sons, Samuel, Oliver, Chauncy, Rensselaer and 
Dryden, were those who came with him, but another son, Walter, remained in 
Pittsburgh, where he afterward became distinguished in the law. He was 
editor of the first Democratic paper in Pittsburgh, the Tree of Liberty, was a 
member of Congress in 1822, Secretary of the Treasury under Tyler, and 
Charge D'Affaires to Denmark. The father died in 1821, aged sixty-nine years, 
having been a man of stern integrity, great strength of character, generous 
and genial in ordinary life, and an upright Judge, he having been honored by 
his fellow citizens with the position of Associate Judge. His widow died in 
1832, aged eighty years. 

In 1804 came James M. Henry, from Blandford, Mass., with his family, 
and settled on Lot 13. The wife of Henry was a lineal descendant of the 
sister of Oliver Cromwell, and the descendants of the Henrys have in their 
possession to this day (we believe now in Cleveland), a Bible presented by the 
great Protector to his sister Mai'garet. Also in 1804 came from Massachu- 
setts John Cochran, Jr. and David Kennedy, Sr., and George Holcolb, from 
Connecticut, and their families; also David Kennedy, Jr., Eber Kennedy 
and Justin Kennedy, sons of David Kennedy, Sr., Samuel Ferguson and sev- 
eral others, all single men. Eber Kennedy was noted for his remarkable 
strength. 

In 1805 came Solomon Cochran and family, from Blandford, Mass., 
together with the widow, Mary Cannon, mother of Eli and Stephen Cannon, 
and Horace Granger, a single man, from Suffield, Conn. 

In 1806 arrived from Middlefield, Mass., Moses Eggleston, father of Gen. 
Nelson Eggleston, who resided where he settled till a few years before his 
death, which occurred in Aui'ora Center in 1866. His brother, Joseph Eggles- 
ton, Robert Bissell and family, and Capt. Perkins and family, also from Mid- 
dlefield, Mass.; Samuel McConnaughy and family, from Blandford; Isaac 
Blair and Col. Ebenezer Harmon, son-in law of Squire Harmon, all came in 
this year and made settlements. John Cochran, Sr. , in attempting to follow 
the fortunes of his son, who had come out two years previously, was taken sick 
at Buffalo, N. Y., and died, where he was buried, he being the first white per- 
son interred there. The balance of the family continued their journey, and 
after many hardships arrived at Aurora. In the family was a crippled daugh- 
ter, Rhoda, then twenty years of age, who was intrusted to the care of a little 
sister, Laura, only thirteen years of age, who walked almost the entire dis- 
tance beside the wagon in which Rhoda was transported. This little girl, 
Laura, afterward Mrs. Stephen Cannon, used to take great interest in describ- 
ing how her feet were blistered and how tired she would get walking along the 
lonesome road. In this year, 1806, occurred "a total eclipse of the sun, and as 
the event was unknown to, or forgotten by, the most of the early settlers, con- 
siderable consternation prevailed when the darkness began to obscure the sky. 

During the spring of 1807 quite a boom occurred to the little settlement, 
and matters were very stirring, as wagon after wagon arrived in different por- 



402 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

tions of the totvnsLiip, and the new comers were looking up their lands and 
making clearings. Seventy-two persons came out, almost in one body, 
and among the heads of families may be mentioned Benjamin Eggles- 
ton, Jei-emiah Root, Samuel Taylor, Brainerd Spencer and Amos Sweet, all 
of whom are now dead but three. Also, in 1807, came John C. Singletary 
and Samuel and Caleb Baldwin and their families. October 12, 1807, the 
township was organized, and Samuel Forward was elected Justice of the Peace. 
The settlement now began to assume somewhat the appearance of civilization, 
as roads were beginning to be cut out, and an occasional wagon could be seen 
winding its way through the woods from the distant mill. 

In 1808 came Justus and Horace Bissell and families, and settled on Lots 
11 and 12; also Maj. Elijah Blackman, Elijah Blackman, Jr., Samuel Black- 
man and Abner Pease and their families, who settled on Lots 19, 20 and 27. 
Maj. Blackman served through the war of 1812-14, and died in 1822. 

In 1809 Bohan Blair, Septimus Witter and James W. Herrick came, and 
in 1810 the widow Anne Kent and three sons; also Dr. Ezekiel Squires, wha 
settled on Lot 38. He was the first physician to settle in Aurora, and it can 
readily be imagined that he was welcome. From this year (1810) till 1820 
many families settled in the township, all of whom were from the New England 
States. During this decade came the Sewards, Wheelers, Rileys, Pakers, 
Plums, Russells, Crooks, Parsons, Spencers, Laceys, Hurds, Jacksons and 
others. 

In 1802 the first sermon was preached at Ebenezer Sheldon's house; there 
were present Mr. Sheldon and his family. This was the first sermon in the 
township, and, doubtless, the first in the county. 

Previous to 1809 the settlers held religious services every Sabbath, but had 
no regular pastor, they conducting the services themselves; but on December 
30 of this year a number of persons assembled at the house of John C. Sin- 
gletary, pursuant to a call made by Rev. Nathan B. Darrow, a missionary sent 
out by the Congregational Missionary Society of Connecticut, and formed 
themselves the next day, Sunday, into a church organization. The names of 
those forming this society were Ebenezer and Laura Sheldon, James M. and 
Sarah Henry, Septimus and Anna W^ itter, Mary Eggleston, Thankful Lucretia 
Root, Mary Cannon, Jeremiah Root and Brainard Spencer. Jeremiah Root, 
at the first election, was elected Elder. Brainard Spencer succeeded Deacon 
Root. In 1811 Rev. John Seward became the pastor of the church and filled 
that position for over thirty years. The first church stood where the Presby- 
terian building now is. 

The Congregaticmal Church was reorganized and incorporated March 20, 
1872, when Alanson Parker, J. L. Thompson, C. Eggleston, Solomon Little 
and Frank Hurd were elected Trustees, and C. H. Root, Clerk. 

The Disciples Church was reorganized under State law May 11, 1855, with 
Victor M. Cannon, A. V. Jewell and J. Bartholomew, Trustees, and Ebenezer 
Sheldon, Clerk. The name adopted was Disciples in Aurora. 

The school was an institution here as early as the winter of 1803-04. Sam- 
uel Forward, Jr., opened one in a little building on the Square at the Center, 
and he had as pupils Julia Forward, Ebenezer Sheldon, Jr., Gersham Shel- 
don, George Sheldon, Festus Sheldon, Chauncy Forward, Rensselaer Forward 
and Dryden Forward. The next school was taught by Oliver Forward, and 
the third by Polly Cameron, in 1807. As an illustration of the feeling of the 
times, and showing that politics ran fully as high as at present: "This old 
school -master, Oliver Forward, delivered a Fourth of July oration at the Cen- 
ter in 1808, and all the Federalists went to Hudson to avoid it. They didn't 



AURORA TOWNSHIP. 403 

•want to be in the same town ^yhile it was being delivered." The following 
statistics show the condition of schools in August, 1884: Boys enrolled, 76; 
girls, 71; revenue, $4,632.41; expenditures, §3,963.92; number of school 
buildings, 7, valued at $5,500; average pay of male teachers, S54; of 
female, $33. 

The first birth in the township occurred in the family of Oliver Forward, 
when a son was born to him April 6, 1804, whom he named Cromwell, after 
his distinguished ancient relative. The second birth was that of James Henry, 
son of James M. Henry, in 1806; and the third, in the same year, was a son 
born to John Cochran, Jr., whom he named Leveritt W., and who in after 
years was an honored member of the Ohio Legislature, besides holding other 
offices. The first death was that of Rhoda Cochran, the crippled girl who 
came out with her mother in 1804. She was afflicted with inflammatory 
rheumatism, and died December 25, 1806, aged twenty-two years. 

The first human habitation erected in the township was a log-cabin put up 
about two miles east of the Center, by Ebenezer Sheldon, and Samuel Forward 
built the next at the Center. They wei'e, of course, of the most primitive 
pattern, consisting of round logs, puncheon floors, cot and clay chimneys, etc., 
etc. The first mill, it being a combination saw and grist, was located near 
the Station, and was run by Septimus Witter. It was a great convenience to 
the settlers when first erected, as they had, up to that time, to go many miles 
to get'their grinding done. The first distillery, a small one — and the only 
one, by the way — was erected at an early day, but it did not thrive as well as 
they do in some other localities, and it was abandoned many years ago. The 
first tavern was built about 1812, and is the present residence of Gen. Eggles- 
ton, the building having been remodeled. It was kept by Judge Samuel For- 
ward. A large ashery was run for many years by Hopson Hurd, who also had 
a pearl ash oven, and shipped large quantities to Pittsburgh. Hopson Hurd 
also brought the first stock of goods, and sold them for a good round price, 
at least his wet goods, getting 50 cents and 75 cents per drink for brandy. 
Mr. Hurd was also the first Postmaster at the Center. In the fall of 1809 
$200 was raised by subscription for the purpose of erecting a Town House, , 
but as money was extremely hard to get, and the cash not being forthcoming, 
a vote was taken on the second Tuesday of January, 1810, which resulted in 
the affirmative, that the articles of sugar and lumber which were subscribed 
should be " delivered by the 1st of May, and the grain by the first of Novem- 
ber, next." The building was finished in the early part of 1811, and on the 
following Fourth of July a ball was held within its sacred walls, but it was 
sacred nevermore, for the church people, who had, ever since its erection, 
been using it as a place of worship, would never enter it again for religious 
purposes. Joseph Skinner, the versatile Joseph, of Mantua, of whom more 
hereafter, furnished the "catgut," as an old settler remarked to the writer. 

Some of the most noted hunters were Benjamin Williams, Marcus Taylor, 
Jarvis McConnaughy and William Crooks and his son George. Game was, of 
course, plenty, and bear, deer and turkey meat were had almost for the asking. 
There was a famous hunt participated in by the Nimrods of Aurora, which 
took place in Streetsboro, but further mention of that will be made elsewhere. 
One of the largest bears ever killed in the county was brought down from the 
limb of a tree on Squire Forward's place, and he was so large and fat that the 
gambrel upon which he was hung up is preserved to this day with date, weight 
etc., marked upon it. About ten or a dozen wolves were caught in a swamp in 
1827, and the boys, armed mostly with clubs, dispatched every one of them. A 
den of yellow rattlesnakes was unearthed in the southern part of the township, 



404 , HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

and over fifty were killed. Miss Sally Taylor, who afterward married Moses 
Eggleston, taught school in Springfield, now Summit County, and during one 
of her trips across the country, lost her way and had to stay in the forest all 
night. Not long after she had tied her horse and laid down, a pack of wolves 
came howling around, which, scaring her horse, caused him to break loose. 
She then thought it was all over with her, when, to her delight, the horse came 
up and stood over her, evidently seeking protection from her whom he was 
best protecting by his position. She held him by the bridle all night, and the 
rays of the morning sun, glinting through the trees, were the most welcome 
she had ever seen. 

Capt. Harmon, during the war of 1812, at the time of Hull's surrender, 
formed a company for service, but they were not needed, although they marched 
as far as Huron and remained in the service several weeks. Worthy Taylor, 
who is now about ninety years of age and the oldest man in the township, was 
a gallant soldier in the war of 1812. Owen Brown, father of "old John 
Brown " whose soul went marching on so peacefully a couple of decades ago, 
married one of his wives, Sallie Root, in this township. She was not the 
mother, however, of the immortal John. Some years ago Truman Howard 
and sons operated a hand rake factory near the depot and sold wagon loads of 
their product, but the horse rake spoiled their business. Cheese making was 
one of the earliest industries, and the handicraft of the thrifty New Englanders 
in that line has not passed away from them to this day, as they yet make the 
finest cheese in the northwestern section of the county. November 8, 1859, 
Alanson Baldwin was murdered by his nephew, Lemuel W. Price, who 
was tried and sentenced to the penitentiary for life. A somewhat noted 
slander suit occurred in Aurora in the early days. Harriet Perkins said some- 
thing derogatory to the character of Thankful Bissell, for which she was tried 
and a judgment rendered against her of a gallon of whisky. Old Squire For- 
ward was the referee. 

November 26, 1835, Gen. Nelson Eggleston issued a notice for a prelimi- 
nary meeting to be held at the Eggleston Tavern for the purpose of arranging 
for a larger meeting to be held, to take into consideration the feasibility of 
constructing a railroad. The meeting was held, being attended by Alanson 
Baldwin, Chairman; Nelson Eggleston, Secretary, and Moses Eggleston, 
A. W. Stocking and two others. The result of this meeting was the building 
of two important lines of railway through Portage County. 

Aurora Iron Company was organized February 1, 1866, for the purpose of 
manufacturing wrought iron from iron ore. The capital was $60,000. The 
members were Evan Moses, William Davis, T. G. Rees, T. J. Rees and M. N. 
Gardner. 

The history of apple stealing from P. P. Mcintosh in 1819, points out the 
arrest and trial of a few of the boys. It appears that Royal Taylor and Harvey 
Baldwin, of Aurora, went south to avoid arrest in re the apples, and took with 
them a small stock of cheese. This resulted in the Southern cheese trade, 
which became the leading industry of northern Portage County. Mcintosh, 
the prosecutor of the boys, died March 9, 1832. 

There is a very tine Presbyterian Church at the Center, Rev. George C. 
Lyon, pastor; also a Christian Church with no regular pastor; both have good 
Sunday-schools. General stores, C. R. Harmon, Hurd & Bro. ; Postmaster, 
C. R. Harmon; John Gould, Editor. 

At the Station, general store, Charles Russell; grocery, Burroughs; Post- 
master, C. Russell. There is a grist-mill owned by Herbert Carleton and a 
saw-mill by C. R. Howard; two cheese factories and creameries. 



BRIMFIELD TOWNSHIP. 405 

Aurora furnished for the late war seventy-two soldiers, fourteen of whom 
died and four were disable^- 

There are seven good schoolhouses with a fair attendance of pupils. 

Toivnship Officers. — Trustees, Julius Granger, Daniel Lacey, John Gould; 
Assessor, R. L. Granger; Treasurer, W. E. Hurd: Justices of the Peace, 
R. P. Cannon, Ed. Shoup; Constables, John Leisun, Emmett Lacey. 

The statistics of this township for 1884 are as follows: 443 acres of wheat; 
no rye; no buckwheat; 487 acres of oats, 15,088 bushels; no barley; 385 acres 
of corn, 1,440 bushels; 2,320 acres meadow, 2,647 tons of hay; 8 acres of 
clover, 16 tons of hay; 32 acres of potatoes, 3,420 bushels; 7,695 gallons of 
milk; 3,550 pounds home-made butter; 86,900 pounds factory and creamery 
butter; 522,300 pounds cheese; 82,651 maples, yielded 12,285 pounds of sugar 
and 1,490 gallons; 19 hives, 100 pounds honey; 280 dozen eggs; 438 bushels 
of apples; 4, 195 pounds wool; 1,401 milch cows; 55 dogs. There died of 
disease 23 hogs, 69 sheep, 41 cattle and 6 horses. Acres of cultivated land, 
1,154; pasture, 10,294; woodland, 2,223; waste land, 150 acres, aggregating 
13,731 acres. I'opulation in 1850 was 823, including 329 youth; in 1870, 642, 
and in 1880, 666. 



CHAPTER XVI. 
BRIMFIELD TOWNSHIP. 



A Many-named Township— Equalizing Lands— Explorers and Settlers 
— Location or the Early Pioneers— Organization and Politics — Three 
Classes of First Events— Education and Religion— Business Beginnings 
— Large Shippers — Resources— Statistics. 

BRIMFIELD, like one or two other townships of the county, had the 
reputation of being swampy, and was slow to be settled. It was origin- 
ally the property of John Wyles, of Hartford, Conn., and Israel Thorndike, a 
merchant of Boston, and was Town 2, Range 9. From the fact of its being 
swampy, it at first went by the name of Swamptown, after which it was called 
Beartown, because there were many bears inhabiting the swamps. Then, for 
some reason not remembered now, the township was known as Greenbriar, 
which gave place in turn to Wylestown, in honor of one of the proprietors, 
who had owned the entire township at first, but at the organization in 1818. 
Thorndike offered to give a plat of ground for a public square at the Center, 
if they would call it Thorndike, which was agreed to and it was so named 
officially, but the old "Ingun Giver" backed out of the contract and would 
not make a deed for the ground, so the citizens petitioned and had the name 
changed to Brimfield, in honor of John Wyles, Jr., to whom his father had 
in the meantime bequeathed his interest. Wyles, Jr., resided in the town of 
Brimfield, Hampden Co., Mass. ; hence the name. At the division of the 
property of the Connecticut Land Company, townships were drawn and 
awarded without regard to the quality of the land, or its location, but in some 
instances the townships so drawn were, according to common report, so very 
far below the average that, to equalize the drawing as near as they could get 
at it, lots were added elsewhere to the property that fell to the share of the 
unfortunate ones. This township being considered a "poor" share, a lot on 



406 HISTORV OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

Superior Street, Cleveland, afterward very valuable, and several hundred acres 
of land in Geauga County, were thrown into the, bargain by the Equalizing 
Committee. The honest old speculators, however, were slightly mistaken, for 
Brimfield is now one of the best sections of the county, and the "swamp" 
lands are among the best grazing spots to be found anywhere. 

In 1816 Thorndike and Wyles cane to the Reserve to view their land and 
make a division of the same. They found Brimtield, or rather Town 2, 
Range 9, an unbroken wilderness, with nothing but wild beasts as its inhab- 
itants, and they had no difficulty in making the division. Thorndike chose 
the north, and Wyles the south half. They then returned to the East, but' 
Thorndike sent out his nephew, Heni-y Thorndike, to act as his agent and 
make a settlement. He brought with him Arba Twitehel, who immediately 
commenced a clearing on the old Boszor hill, half a mile north of the Center. 
About this time a man named Simcox, a squatter, attempted to make a settle- 
ment, but he never purchased any land, and remained only a short time. The 
first permanent settler was John Boosinger, who came from Ravenna in June, 
1816, but was originally from Maryland. He settled on Lot 39, where he lived 
for sixty years, when he passed across the River. In the following November, 
Henry Thorndike with his famil}^ and his brother Israel arrived. Israel was 
a bachelor, but soon after coming married a daughter of Martin Kent, of Suf- 
field. Henry settled on Lot 21. Abuer H. Lanphare, a single man, also 
came and lived in the Thorndike family. 

In January, 1817, Deacon Alpheus Andrews came in and settled at the 
Center, and the reason whereof is thus stated: Thorndike, being anxious to 
have a speedy settlement of his township, offered to give to the first child 
born therein, eighty acres of land. The good Deacon, hearing of this propo- 
sition, and having certain indications within his household that he might pos- 
sibly win the prize, straightway moved into the township from Rootstown, and 
sure enough, on the 17th of April ensuing, the expected visitor arrived. He 
demanded the prize-land, but as the child had died, a compromise was made 
on forty acres of land, upon which he lived and died. 

During this year, 1817, among others there came in Jeremiah Moulton, 
Henry Boszor, Erastus Flower, Capt. Uriah Sawyer, Harrison G. Moulton, 
Abner Moulton, John V. Gardner, Jonathan and David Thompson. David 
Coburn, Reuben and Henry Hall, Thomas Rice, Benjamin Mallory, Champlain 
Minard, John Furry, Nathan Packard, John K. Chapman, Peter Wolford, John 
Williard, Nathaniel Beasley, John Twitchell, Samuel Thompson, Jacob Hall 
and Alpheus Underwood. In 1818 came Asa Sawyer, William Smith, Fred- 
erick Jones, Edwin Barber, Jonathan Law and E. A. Palmer; in 1819 Lyman 
Barber, Amos Benedict. Selah Hart, Peter Osborn, Benjamin Hall and Will- 
iam Hall; in 1820 Jeremiah Pike, Dr. Lincoln and William Davidson; in 1821 
Guy Doolittle, Capt. Courtant Chapman, and one or two others, and along 
about 1825, among other prominent settlers were Deacon Harmon Bradley and 
James and Julius Blake. From this time forward the township settled up 
very rapidly, and in 1831 contained the following families, with their loca- 
tions, as enumerated by Dr. A. M. Sherman, of Kentucky, in an address deliv- 
ered in 1881. 

"We first find the family of Edward Russel in the northwest corner; com- 
ing to the Mogadore road, we find on the hill. Uncle Asa Sawyer, next, his 
son. Squire Asa Sawyer; passing west from the Corners, Benjamin Mallory, John 
Furry and John Chapman; returning and coming south, Capt. Uriah Sawyer 
and Uncle Sammy Thompson; going west from the Corners, Reuben Hart, Amos 
Benedict, Jonathan Law; at the Corners, Selah Hart, Jacob Hall, Erastus 










o^m^ e-^ 



BRIMFIELD TOWNSHIP. 409 

Flowers, Edwin Barber, Guy Doolittle and Julius Blake; further south on the 
Corners, was Philo Taylor; next, Joseph Gilbreath, John Gilbreath and Barnett 
Stilwell; commencing at the north line again, we find Deacon Harmon Brad- 
ley, Arba Twitchel. the Wolford family on the Henry Boszor farm, William 
Hall and father, Benjamin Hall, Deacon Henry Hall, Reuben Hall, Oliver 
Sawyer; south at the Corners, Cone Andrews; south, John Boosinger, Harris 
Sherman; south on the hill, William .James, John Shelhorn; a little west, 
William Davidson, and south of him, William Spaulding; following the east 
and west road, south from the Center, were Conrad Fowser, Samuel Myers, 
Peter Osborn ; south of the Corners, Thomas Parsons, Deacon Edward Parsons, 
Moses Birge and Peter Hockobout; east from the Corners there was no house 
for two miles; north from the Corners, toward the Center, was Sullivan Moiil- 
toQ, George Moulton, Anson Moultou, Augustus Moulton, George Price, Will- 
iam Price, Jonathan Price; west from the Center, Solomon Carver, Henry 
Savsryer, Hiram King, Dr. Lincoln, Abel Forcha and Benjamin Haynes; north 
from the Center, were Martin T. Hackett, Nathaniel Beasley, Henry Boszor, 
Nathaniel Packard and Champ] ain Minard; at the Center, Deacon Alpheus 
Andrews; east. Widow Harrison, G. Moulton, Capt. Chapman, Harry Chap- 
man, Joseph Chapman, Abner H. Lanphare, James Blake, Orrin Blake, Judge 
Jeremiah Moulton, Sluman Able, E. A. Palmer and Alpheus Underwood; 
south on the diagonal road, David Coburn, John V. Gardner and Abel Burt; 
north of Gardner was Isaac Osborn, Jeremiah Pike, Andrew Coosard, John 
Hill; east from the Corners were Albert Undei'wood, Lybia Underwood, Augus- 
tus Minard and David Fuller; north from the Corners, Freeman Underwood, 
Frederick Jones, William Smith, Martin Edson, Huedang Hall, Benjamin 
Cady, Elisha Burnett and Isaac Ives; in the northeast corner of the town were 
Levi Stoddard, Thomas Cartwright, Lucius Edson, Joseph Williard, Fred- 
erick Moore, Lyman Barber, Benjamin Edson, Beverly Y. Buss and Chauncy 
Isbell. 

From 1821 to 1840 came the following persons: Col. H. L. Carter, Will- 
iam Sessions, Hiram Ewell, Alvin Needham, Erasmus Needham, Valorous 
Needham, Williard Thomas, Algernon Thomas, James Furrey. old Father 
Cairier and his son Lucius, George Guiestwite, Conrad Neff, Dr. Samuel Hast- 
ings, William R. Kelso, John Kelso, Charles Edson, David L. Rockwell, Joel 
Burnett, the Bard family, Leverett Black, Ebenezer Rawson, Porter King, 
William Meloy, the Stow family and many others." 

The township was organized in the spring of 1818, and the first election 
held in April. There were thirteen votes cast, out of which eleven officers were 
elected: Trustees, Henry Thorndike, Champlain Minard, Reuben Hall; Clerk, 
Alpheus Andrews; Treasurer, Israel A. Thorndike; Assessor, David Thompson; 
Fence Viewers, John Boosinger, Henry Boszor; Constables, Arba Twitchell, 
Thomas Futson; Justice of the Peace, Jonathan Thompson. 

Politics did not enter into this election for the reason that they were all of 
the same mind, but it is reasonable to suppose they were Jeffersonian, as the 
township has been Democratic for nearly fifty years in the Republican county 
of Portage. In 1840, owing to the great popularity of Gen. Harrison, the 
Whigs had a small majority, and politics ran high, so high, indeed, that when 
two Constables were running, one of them was so reckless as to bet a dollar on 
his election. 

The business of the Justices in those early days seems to have been nearly 
nil, and the same good custom of not going to law for every trifling and imag- 
inary wrong seems to prevail at the present time. There is less litigation in 
Brimfield than in any other township in the county, scarcely two cases a year 

22 



410 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

coming up in any shape whatever. Magistrates never grow rich here on fees. 
Extremely rare have been the cases carried to the County Court, and no lawyer 
has ever lived here, yet the township has been the home of many excellent 
business men, among whom may be mentioned Judge Jeremiah Moulton, 
Associate Justice for seven years; John V. Gardner, Coroner; William R. 
Kelso, Commissioner; Rodolphus Bard, Recorder; Erasmus Needham, Repre- 
sentative; and Col. H. I. Carter, County Auditor. 

The child born to Mrs. Alpheus Andrews, wife of Deacon Andrews, and, 
named Henry T., in honor of Henry Thorndike, and in seeming response to 
the prize offered by that gentlemen, was the first to make its appearance iu 
the township, and the date was April 17, 18] 7. The first death was that of an 
infant of Capt. Uriah Sawyer; the next the death of Porter Walbridge, an adult, 
and the third the prize- child of Deacon Andrews. Walbridge was buried in the 
cemetery at the Center, and it is said that he had such pronounced heterodox 
views on religion that the good Deacon would not bury his son in the same 
ground, for fear the devil, when he came around for his own, would make a 
mistake and carry off his child in place of Walbridge, so he conveyed the lit- 
tle fellow over to Rootstown, and buried him there. Dr. Sherman tells this 
tale, and another in regard to the first max'riage, or rather the marriage of 
parties living here, the knot being tied in Ravenna. A fellow named Thomp- 
son, with a p, was courting a Miss Durkee, and she agreeing to have him, 
he started to Ravenna to get a license, but after he had gone, Thomas Tutson, 
as a joke, persuaded her to give up the other fellow and marry him, upon which 
she said it was a "whack," and they started ofi", also for Ravenna. On the 
road they met the expectant groom, who was informed that she had changed 
her mind, and although he said he would die, etc., etc., the couple continued 
their journey, and were made one. The first marriage in the township was 
that of Abner H. Lanphare and Miss Sophia Moulton, July 4, 1819. 

On the '22d day of December, 1818, the first school in the township was 
opened by Jeremiah Moulton, in his own house, and continued during the 
winter. Four families monopolized this school. The teacher had ten chil- 
dren, Alpheus Andrews had seven, and the two Thompsons' houses were full 
of them. He opened again the following winter. The first district school was 
taught by Henry Hall. Abner Lanphare also taught school in several districts. 

There are eight schoolhouses in the township, and the high school at the 
Center is a very excellent and creditable institution. Prof. A. W\ Carrier is 
Principal, and there is an attendance of about fifty pupils. The course of 
study is well advanced, and the school is doing a good work. The statistics 
for August, 1884, are as follows: 129 boys and 119 girls enrolled; 8 school- 
buildings, valued at 18,950; male teachers' average pay, |40; female teachers' 
pay, $21; revenue, $3,005.43; expenditures, $2,586.38. 

The first church to have a regular organization was the Presbyterian, in 
1819, the membership being seven persons: Jonathan Law and wife, Alpheus 
Andrews and wife, Reuben Hall and wife, and Benjamin Mallory. Rev. 
Simeon Woodruff called the little fiock together. They built a modest little 
church in 1834, which is now used as a residence. In 1818 Simeon Woodruff 
preached the first sermon at Henry Thorndike's log-house. 

A Methodist Church was organized in 1823 by Elder Eddy, of Hudson, and 
consisted of eight members: Benjamin Mallory (formerly a Presbyterian) and 
wife, Amos Benedict and wife, John K. Chapman and wife, and Abner H. Lan- 
phare and wife. This society built a church in 1836. A Baptist Church was 
organized about 1834, and consisted of four members: Deacon Harmon Brad- 
ley, Martin T. Hackett, and John Taber and wife. They built a small house 
of worship in a year or two afterward. 



BRIMFIELD TOWNSHIP. 411 

The first Universalist Church was built in 1837. It was burned down, and 
rebuilt in 1868. Resident ministers have been very few. The Universalists 
have as their present pastor Kev. Andrew Wilson, and the Methodists have 
Rev. Huston. 

In 1818 Israel and Edward Thorndike started a nail factory one mile and 
a half west of the Center, but the difficulty in obtaining the raw material 
and the consequent high price of the nails, 18 cents per pound, soon rendered 
the enterprise a failure. In connection with the nail factory a saw-mill was 
started, but it, too, was abandoned, and the building afterward removed. 

The first store was opened in 1833 by William Sessions. The first post- 
office was established in 1835, and Constant Chapman was first Postmaster; 
the next was Edward Parsons. A hotel was opened by William R. Kelso, and 
there never was any other. The first frame house was built in 1819, by 
Henry Thorndike. The first physician was Dr. Lincoln; then came Dr. Stock- 
ing, Dr. Gray and Dr. Hastings. 

Toivnship Officers. — Trustees, J. T. W^illiams, J. P. Lull, A. H. Under- 
wood; Clerk, G. W. Bard; Treasurer, E. D. Brobst; Assessor, James E. 
Woods; Constables, William Hasness, Lewis Metcalf ; Justices of the Peace, 
J. L. Carrier, M. S. Chapman. 

Brimfield Center has one general store, kept by J. T. Williams, who is also 
Postmaster; one harness shop, A. C. H. Brown; a chop-mill, a wagon-shop, one 
liy-uet maker. Werstler Bros.' feed-mill and cider- mill was established in 
1882 at Brimfield. The value of machinery and building is $2,500. This 
industry gives employment to three men. Darwin Smith's saw-mill was 
erected in 1882, employing three men; the capacity is 6,000 feet per day. The 
Brimfield cheese factory is operated by Parker. 

Brimfield is the largest wool-producing and shipping center in the county. 
Reuben Brobst is one of the heaviest dealers on the Reserve, handling some 
seasons over 100,000 pounds of wool. J. T. Williams is the next largest 
dealer, he handling about 75,000 pounds. Both of thes9 gentlemen are also 
the heaviest dealers in clover seed in the county. 

The Center is beautifully located, and has the handsomest town hall and 
park suiTounding it, in the county. The cemetery is beautifully laid out and 
the monuments elaborate. The citizens are an intelligent, genial and hospitable 
class, alive to all public enterprises and the needs of the Nation. They sent 
eighty-one brave boys to the field of war, and twenty of them fell in the 
service. 

The statistics of this township for 1884 are as follows: Acres of wheat, 
2,050, bushels, 31,132; acres of oats, 968, bushels, 38,491; acres of corn, 
850, bushels, 13,726 (shelled); acres of meadow, 1003, tons of hay, 1465; 
acres of clover, 676, tons of hay, 840, bushels of seed, 180; acres of potatoes, 
160, bushels, 17,986; home-made butter, 42,536 pounds; factory made, 6,000 
pounds; cheese, 33,300 pounds; 117 maple trees yielded fifteen gallons of 
syrup; 86 hives, 960 pounds of honey; 32,928 dozens of eggs; 8 bushels of 
sweet potatoes; 13,049 bushels of apples; 445 bushels of peaches; 15 of 
pears; 10,289 pounds of wool; 484 milch cows; 6 stallions; 136 dogs; 39 
sheep killed or injured by dogs; animals which died of disease — 15 hogs, 
78 sheep, 11 cattle and 2 horses; acres of cultivated land, 8,453; of pasture, 
1874; of woodland, 2,221; of waste land, 139, aggregating 12,687 acres. 
Population in 1850 was 1015, including 411 youth; in 1870, 913; in 1880, 
1030; in 1884 (estimated) 1,200. 



412 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 



CHAPTER XVII. 

CHARLESTOWN TOWNSHIP. 

A Hunter Squatter— First Permanent Settler— The Blandford & Gran- 
ville Co.— Post-bellum Settlers— Fifty-six in Four Families- Lead- 
ing First Events— First Birth and Marriage — First Mills— Schools 
AND Churches— Rev. Caleb Pitkin— Organization— Officers, Business, 
etc. 

CHARLESTOWN in the original surveys, Town 3, Range 7, fell to the 
lot principally, at the drawing of the land company, of John Morgan, 
who afterward disposed of it to Samuel Hinckley, of Northampton, Mass., and 
went by the name, up to the organization in 1814, of Hinckley Township. 

Abel Forcha came to the county about 1800, from the western part of 
Maryland. He was a widower and first made his headquarters near the settle- 
ment of Benjamin Tappan at Ravenna, after which he moved to Chai'lestown 
about 1803, and settled on what was afterward known as Farnham's Hill, 
where he lived several years, when he moved to near where Kent now is, and 
thence to Brimtield, having married a Miss Williard, whose father lived in 
that township. Forcha, when he came here, made his living by hunting, and 
furnished the settlers with as much game as they wanted. He never acquired 
any land in this township, and therefore cannot be called the first settler. 

John Campbell, afterward well known as Gen. Campbell, came to Deerfield 
in the spring of 1800, with Alva Day and.'Joel Thrall, and on April 7 of that 
year married Sarah Ely, daughter of Lewis Ely, the first settler in that town- 
ship, the wedding being the first within the borders of Portage. In 1804 he 
was elected Ensign of a military company formed in his township, and in 1811 
was elected Captain of a company which afterward took part in the operations 
on the northern frontier, but he being sick at the time, the command devolved 
upon Lieut. Day. Capt. Campbell was subsequently elected Brigadier-Gen- 
eral of militia, and served one term in the Ohio Senate. His elaborate address 
to the General in command asking that the Irish troops be grouped and 
allowed to engage the enemy as a distinct command, is well remembered. In 
1805 he came to this township, and settled on Lot 1, which is the extreme 
southwest corner, and built a house that stood one quarter each on Charles- 
town, Ravenna, Rootstowu and Edinburg, and which afterward became the 
nucleus of the thriving little village of Campbellsport, but which when the 
old canal was relegated to the things that were, lost its grip, also, nothing 
now remaining of its former glory save a few houses, and one store, 
whose owner is also Postmaster. Gen. Campbell was a man of strong 
natural abilities, energetic, active and useful, but of limited education. He 
died in 1827, and was buried with Masonic honors. A singular fatality 
attended several members of his family, the coincidences being remarkable. 
John L., a son, was burned on the steamer "Daniel Webster,'' on the Missis- 
sippi; Homer M. , another son, died on a steamer on the Mississippi; and 
Robert E., still another son, while in a fit of temporary insanity shot himself 
at Rock Island, on the Mississippi; whilst John H. Campbell, a grandson, was 
so scalded that he died, on the steamer "Pennsylvania," on the Mississippi. 



CHARLESTOWN TOWNSHIP. 413 

In 1809 Campbell was appointed agent for Hinckley, and he proceeded to 
the East for the purpose of forming a company for settlement, which he did, 
from residents of Granville and Blandford, Mass., the members of which were 
Samuel -NHinckley, David, Charles and Linus Curtiss, David L. Coe, John 
Baldwin, Levi Sutliff, Perry Babcock, John and William King, Anson Fair- 
child, Joel Parsons and Solomon Noble, all of whom signed an agreement 
that if they did not move on to the land, clear five acres and build a cabin 
within five years, to forfeit their right and pay $100 besides. All of them 
came except Hinckley, Fairchild, Noble and Parsons, who paid their tines and 
stayed at home, their places being tilled by others, and the $400 applied to 
building a house for town, school and religious purposes. 

In the summer of 1810 Linus Curtiss and Levi Sutliff, with their families, 
and Giles and Bansley Wood and John B. Shaler, single men, came in, Cur- 
tiss settling on Lot 41, and Sutliff on Lot 33. In the fall came Molly Knowl- 
ton and Elisha King, who settled on portions of Lots 36 and 37 respectively. 
In the summer of 1811 Charles Curtiss settled on Lot 40, David L. Coe on Lot 
41, and John Baldwin on Lot 34. In the fall came John and William King 
and Abel Thompson, who settled on Lot 32, Lodowick Parsons on Lot 29, and 
Almon Babcock on Lot 40. In 1812 Lucretius Bissell and Balzemon Loomis, 
from Torringford, came in. 

During the war of 1812-14 there was little or no immigration, but when 
hostilities closed settlers came in rapidly. In the spring of 1815 tifty-six 
persons arrived in one party. They were Moses James, from Windham, Conn., 
Lemuel Knapp, from Northampton" Mass. , and Timothy and Joel Hart, from 
Granville, Mass. Each of these sturdy old pioneers brought his wife and 
hcelve cliildren. That was the way they populated a country in those times. 
It was quite fashionable to have a dozen or so of children, and the couple who 
did not have eight or ten were not considered of much account. 

In this year, 1815, there were thirteen families in the township, and thir- 
teen more came in, doubling the population, among whom were Deacon Ozias 
Norton, Deacon Joel Dorman, Joseph Steadman, Elisha Wetmore and James 
King. The Knapp family came from Northampton, Mass., to Charlestown in 
3815, and settled on Farnham Hill, near the present residence of William 
Fox. The Knapp family numbered sixteen, Mr. Knapp and wife being the 
parents of fourteen children. George Knapp, of Garrettsville, born in 
Northampton, Mass., March 14, 1799, is a member of this family. Norman 
Kood, born in Litchtield County, Conn., July, 1806, settled in Charlestown in 
1824, and is still a resident of the township. 

The tirst death was that of Brayton King, son of John King, in 1812, 
which was soon followed by the death of Charles Curtiss, and about the same 
time Rachel, daughter of William King, while getting water at a spring, was 
killed by the falling of a ti'ee. 

The tirst white child born was John W. , son of Mrs. John Baldwin, born 
March 7, 1813. 

The initial marriage occurred March 14, 1816, and the parties were Martin 
Camp an(;i Sallie Coe. The groom was from Tallmadge, and he brought with 
him to tier the knot Bev. Simeon Woodruff. October 21, of the same year 
Leverett Norton and Polly Curtiss joined their fortunes as man and wife. 

In the spring of 1812 Charles Curtiss set out an orchard on his place on 
Lot 40. He gave twenty bushels of wheat to John Harmon, of Mantua, for 
200 apple trees. 

The tirst saw-mill was erected by the company that came <5ut before the 
war, and was located half a mile east of the Center. It did a great deal of 



414 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

sawing for the county seat, as well as for the settlers in Charlestown. The 
Knapps also built one on the same stream lower down. Smith Hall built one 
south of the Center, and Capt. Curtiss and Claudius Coe built one north of the 
Center, but timber becoming scarce, their mills all went down. A steam saw- 
mill was erected by Ezra Stephenson on the land of Sheldon Farnham. Some 
parties from Connecticut wanted to locate an auger factory at the Center, but 
not getting sufficient encouragement, went a mile west and put up their works, 
but it did not pay and was abandoned. The name, Augerburg, is all that 
remains of the project. 

Before leaving Massachusetts, the Blandford & Granville Company organ- 
ized a Congregational Church, the members of which were Charles Curtiss and 
wife, John Baldwin and wife, David L. Coe and Almon Babcock. The first 
preachers they had were missionaries sent out by the Connecticut Missionary 
Society, among whom were Revs. John Seward, Joseph Treat, Simeon Wood- 
ruff and Nathan B. Darrow. They early had an edifice in which to hold ser- 
vices, thanks to the $400 forfeited by the four who backed out of the agreement, 
as stated previously, in addition to which Charles Curtiss agreed to contribute 
a barrel of whisky toward the building if they would name the township 
Charlestown, which was accepted, a mode of "fighting the devil with fire," 
quite ingenious on the part of the stern old sticklers for high morality. But 
it must be remembered that whisky was one of the only products of the time 
in this locality that represented money. A contribution of grain would not 
have been thought much of, for there was no market; made into a liquid it 
was quite another thing — always a market for that. In 1817 Rev. Caleb Pit- 
kin received a dall from the church, which he accepted, remaining with the 
flock until 1827, when he resigned to take charge of the college at Hudson. 
The first regular church building was erected in 1829. This old building was 
burned in the winter of 1878, and the present church was erected and opened 
the same year. The cost was about $3,000. This society was reorganized by 
Rev. J. C. Hart September 16, 1858. Rev. L. B. Wilson was Clerk; R. L. 
Loomis, J. W. Baldwin and Israel Greenleaf were elected Trustees, and Amos 
T. King, Clerk. The Methodist Episcopal Church Society elected Thomas B. 
King. Joel O. Hall, Joseph Hough, J. M. Beardsley and Newton Barnes, 
Trustees, December 9, 1858. Their house of worship still stands just north 
of the Congregational Church. The present pastor is Rev. Colton. The 
Methodists also have a neat edifice at the Center, and Rev. S. Collier is pastor. 
Their house of worship was erected in 1859, just north of the Congregational 
building. 

The first school in the township was taught in a log schoolhouse at the 
Center in the summer of 1811 and winter of 1812-13, by Miss Sophia Coe, a 
sister of Ransom L. Coe, who, by the way, together with his wife, Mrs. Rebecca 
M. Coe, are still living at advanced ages, she being eighty-seven and he eighty- 
five years. They are the only ones left in this county of the early settlers. 
Mrs. Polly (Curtiss) Norton, one of the old settlers, is now a resident of Con- 
necticut. 

Mr. Coe came with his father in 1811. The scholars at this first school 
were Chauncy B., Joel, Melissa, Charles L., Dennis, Harris P., Prudence, 
Harriet and Lucretia Curtiss, Adnah C. and Phoebe Coe, Robert, Lathrop and 
Rachel King, Samuel and Lydia Sutliif, and Mina Forcha, daughter of Abel 
Forcha, the hunter-settler. The condition of the schools is as follows: 
Revenue for year 1883-84, $2,573.16; expenditures, $1,879.51; six school- 
houses valued at $3,000; pupils enrolled, 83 boys and 80 girls; average pay of 
male teachers, $32, of female, $22. 



CHARLESTOWN TOWNSHIP. 415 

The township was organized in 1814, and thirteen votes were polled at the 
election, with the following result: Trustees, Lodowick Parsons, Lucretius 
Bissell, Thaddeus Curtiss; Clei*k, Elijah N. Bissell; Treasurer, Thaddeus Cur- 
tiss; Lister, James Newton; Overseers of the Poor,^Moses James, Ozias Nor- 
ton; Fence Viewers, Joel Hall, Junia Knapp; Constable, Elisha AVetmore; 
Justice of the Peace, Lucretius Bissell. Squire Bissell made a good officer 
and served two terms. His first official duty was to marry Almon Babcock and 
Mary Collins. His immediate successors were Ralzemon Loomis, Thaddeus 
Curtiss, Lodowick Parsons and Junia Knapp. There was very little litigation 
in those days, and one could get his case attended to for a day's chopping. 

Toivnship Officers. — Trustees, William Baldwin, F. C. Hatfield, O. A. 
Coe; Clerk, A. D. Bishop; (Treasurer, W. L. Wetmore; Assessor, (J. W. 
Copelaud; Constables, W. L. 'jDutter, G. A. Hine; Justices of the Peace, A. 
P. Curtiss, William Fox. 

There is a grocery store at the Center owned by W". L. Wetmore, and E. 
L. Wetmore, is Postmaster. There is a basket factory, also, and a wagon shop. 
Charlestown Co-operative Cheese Factory was established April 28, 1874. The 
original members were A. B. Curtiss, Jacob Phile, A. W. Loomis, William 
Baldwin, Carlton G. Hall, J. N. Hall, C. L. White, Edwin Halsted, Lorin C. 
Baldwin and Jacob L. Coe. This ceased operation in 1881 owing to litigation. 
The cheese factory east of the Center was established by A. P. Curtiss and 
Henry Carrington, but is now closed down. 

The township has furnished a Sheriff, John Campbell; Senator, Campbell; 
and a Probate Judge, Luther L. Brown. 

The land being high and rolling is finely adapted to sheep-raising, whilst 
the hills overlie almost exhaustless mineral wealth, all that is required being 
capital to develop it, and a railroad to afford the market, the New York, Pennsyl- 
vania & Ohio Railroad merely touching the northwestern corner. Tlie town- 
flhip is well watered by various small streams, in addition to the Mahoning 
River. One of the finest views to be found anywhere is from the square at 
the Center looking eastward, across Trumbull County to the high lands of 
Pennsylvania far in the distance. Charlestown furnished fifty brave soldiers 
to the war for the Union, nine of whom gave their lives to the glorious cause. 

The statistics of this division of the covTnty for 1884 are set forth in the 
following review: Acres of wheat, 790, bushels, 11,210; of oats, 532, bushels, 
21,353; of barley, 6 acres; of corn, 195, bushels, 4,242; of meadow, 1,269, 
tons of hay, 2,269; of clover, 125, tons of hay, 212, bushels of seed, 74; of pota- 
toes, 61, bushels (estimated), 8,259; home-made butter, 26,548 pounds; 21,774 
maple trees yielded 2,225 pounds of sugar and 5,231 gallons of syrup; 20 
hives yielded 210 pounds of honey; eggs, 12,692 dozens; apples, 3,127 bush- 
els; peaches, 114 bushels; pears, 22 bushels; wool, 13,915 pounds; milch 
cows, 365; 1 stallion; 71 dogs killed 10 sheep and injured 17; 224 sheep died 
of disease; acres of cultivated lands, 2.027; of pasture, 6,362; of wood, 1,806; 
of waste, 942; total acreage, 11,137 acres. Population in 1850 was 809, includ- 
ing 304 youth; in 1870, 675; in 1880, 633; in 1884 (estimated) 600. 



416 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 



CHAPTER XVIII. 
DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP. 

Breaking First Ground— Settlers of 1800— The Elys, Days and Divers- A 
Trip on the Ma-um-ing— Hardships and Privations— Great Increase- 
First Military Company— After the Organization— x\ Remarkable 
Family — Some Early Facts— Grant's Tannery— Shooting of Diver — 
Hunters and Hunting— Early Preachers and Churches — Schools, 
Business and Statistics. 

DEERFIELD, laid down in the surveys as Town 1, Range 6, was one of the 
earliest settled in the county, and for three reasons, possibly — good land, 
well watered and being in close proximity to the early western settlements of 
Pennsylvania; for although the very first settlers were from New England, there 
came in afterward such a sprinkling of Pennsylvanians as to materially alter the 
character of the inhabitants, for the modes of life of the average Pennsylvania 
and New England farmers differ in many particulars. Your Pennsylvania 
farmer, for instance, builds him a big barn, highly ornamented, regardless of 
what his dwelling may be, while his neighbor from Connecticut takes care, 
first, that his house is comfortable, and then attends to the outbuildings. 
The original proprietors of the township were Gideon Granger, appointed 
Postmaster-General in 1800, and Oliver Phelps, both of Connecticut; Phelps 
owned two-thirds of the land. 

In the early part of 1799 Lewis Ely, Lewis Day, Moses Tibbals and Dan- 
iel Diver, of Connecticut and Massachusetts, purchased one-third from Mr. 
Phelps, when Lewis Day, accompanied by Horatio Day, started for his new 
possessions, in a wagon drawn by horses, arriving in June. Shortly after- 
ward, in July, Lewis Ely came in, he having started a little later than the 
other two; he, however, was the first settler in the township, as he brought 
his wife and family, built a cabin and settled down for life. In the fall the 
two Days and Ely broke the first ground and put out a crop, the Days then 
going back to their home in the East. Ely, although at the time of his com- 
ing being a resident of Connecticut, was born in Massachusetts. He located 
on Lot 19, a little east of the grave-yard, on the east of the Center. He died 
in September, 1826. 

February 10, 1800, John Campbell, Joel Thrall and Alva Day walked all 
the way from Connecticut to their future home in Deerfield. The Alleghe- 
nies, when they crossed those mountains, were covered with nearly six feet of 
snow, and they suffered terribly from cold, but arrived safely on the 4th of 
March. In this same month Alva Day and Lewis Ely went across to Atwater 
and cut a large tree for the purpose of digging out a canoe and going to Vir- 
ginia to procure provisions, as they were very scarce. They launched their 
log into Yellow Creek and floated it down to the Mahoning, or, as the 
Indians called it, Ma-um-ing, meaning "the way to the mai'ket," where they 
fashioned it into a canoe. It was some time in April before they arrived at 
their destination, but after starting back with their supplies, obtained opposite 
Steubenville, they found they could not get back by water, and returned for 
an ox-team, only getting back home the latter part of May. In this year 




Jf*^t^ 



dtr?^%4JhCje^cd 



DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP. 419 

1800, came James Laughlin from Washington County, Penn., bringing his 
wife and one child, a daughter. He afterward had six sons and five other 
daughters. He settled south of the Center. Henry Rogers and several others 
came at the same time. In July Lewis Day, who had returned to Connecticut 
the year before, came out with his wife, Horatio, Munn, Seth, Lewis, Jr., Sol- 
omon and Seba; also the wife of Alva Day, who came out earlier. They came 
with an ox-team and were over forty days making the trip. Mr. Day came 
from Granby, Conn., and had been a soldier in the Revolution, being Ser- 
geant of his company. His brother, Asa, was with him, and was killed by 
the Indians on the Mohawk River, at a place called Stony Arabia. The old 
gentleman died in 1847, at the extreme age of ninety-three years. He had 
been a member of the Methodist Church for over sixty years. Horatio, who 
came out with him in 1799, died in 1852, aged seventy-two years. The wife of 
Alva Day died in 1838, and Mrs. Lewis Day in 1823, from the bite of a rat- 
tlesnake. 

For the next four years after 1800 the population increased at a rapid rate, 
many settlers coming in not only from Connecticut and Massachusetts, but 
from Pennsylvania, Virginia and Maryland. In 1802 Ephraim B. Hubbard, 
a native of Stratford, Conn., who had removed to Dutchess County, N. Y. , 
where he was married, and thence to Greene County, same State, resolved upon 
settling in the Scioto Valley, but on his way thither fell in company with a 
Mr. Penn, who induced him to change his mind and come to this county, 
which he did, settling in Deertield, and purchasing a tract of land. He died 
in 1825 aged sixty-one years. His three sons became prominent citizens, one 
of them entering <he ministry of the Methodist Church. Many others, whose 
names are now forgotten, came in this year. In 1803 Daniel Diver came in 
with his wife and family. He was born in 1752, in Granville, Mass., but the 
family was originally from Holland. His sons were Daniel, John and Samuel; 
and the daughters were Peggy, married to Simeon Card, who came in with the 
Divers, and who died a few years afterward; Mary, married to Rev. Shad- 
rach Bostwick, who came in at the same time his father-in-law did, and who 
was not only a typical circuit rider of the Methodist Church, but a very excel- 
lent physician; Betsey and Josey were two other daughters. In 1804 the pop- 
ulation had so increased that a meeting was held for the purpose of forming a 
military company, which resulted in the selection of Henry Rogers, Captain; 
John Diver, Lieutenant and John Campbell, Ensign. Campbell afterward 
became General and Rogers Major. Numerous settlements were made during 
this year, most of the newcomers being from Pennsylvania. In 1805 John 
Murray came in and commenced following his trade as a millwright, but there 
not being much to do in his line, he commenced the study of medicine at New 
Lisbon shortly afterward. He was a man of considerable education and natu- 
ral talents, and became somewhat noted, locally, as a physician. A German 
named Burhans, a miller, from Maryland, came also in this year, as well as 
one or two from Virginia and Pennsylvania. 

April 7, 1806, the township was organized, and the following officers 
elected: Joseph Hart, James McKelvey and Horatio Day, Trustees; Daniel 
Diver and David Daniels, Overseers; Amos Thurber and Alva Day, Fence 
Viewers; Alva Day and William Bacon, Appraisers; James Carter, Constable; 
Daniel Diver, Treasurer; Alva Day, E. B. Hubbard, Amos Thurber, Asa Hall, 
John Vennetta and E. Baker, Supervisors. Lewis Day, James Laughlin and 
James Thurber were the Judges of the Election, and Shadrach Bostwick, the 
Clerk. Several of these officers resided at this time in what are now adjoin- 
ing townships to Deerfield, and the list includes the first man who settled in 



420 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

Atwater and the first in Palmyra. The township was named in honor of Deer- 
field, Mass., the birthplace of the mother of Lewis Day, Sr. At a meeting of 
the County Commissioners in August, 1808, James Carter was made Collector 
of Taxes for Deertield, and at the annual election in October, Alva Day was 
elected Sheriff, Lewis Day a Commissioner, and Lewis Ely, Coroner, four 
county officers from Deerfield. In 1809 Seth Day, one of the sons of Lewis, 
Sr., was appointed Clerk to the County Commissioners, and the same year was 
appointed Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas and Supreme Court; in 1817 
he was appointed Recorder, and in 1818 Postmaster of Ravenna, holding the 
last three offices till 1832, when he entered private business, where he became 
widely known. 

In 1806 came in a large number of settlers, and from various sections. 
Moses Tibballs, one of the original four purchasers, came this year and set- 
tled on Lot 28. He was from Granville, Mass., and died in 1841, leaving four 
sons: Alfred M., Aubert L., Francis W. and Seymour S. Either this year or 
previously, Noah Grant settled in the township. He was the father of Jesse 
R. Grant, and grandfather of Gen. U. S. Grant. The wife of Noah Grant 
lies buried in the old cemetery at the Center, but the exact spot has now passed 
away from the memory of all. James Carter, from Virginia, and Robert and 
George Taylor, and William Reed, from Washington County, Penn., also 
came, and quite a number of the descendants of the latter still live in the 
county. In 1807 the influx increased, and many names appear which after- 
ward figured in various ways in pu^blic and private business of the township 
and county. Peter Mason came from Connecticut, in company with his brother 
Stephen, both young men. One of them married a Day and raised seventeen 
children. The other married an Ely. Andrew Pownell and a brother also 
came about this time, both having families. Also the Hartzells. 

There came Jacob, John, George H. , William, Abraham and Joseph Hart- 
zell, from Northampton County, Penn. George H. Hartzell, the leader of the 
company, and the patriarch of the entire connection, had come out in 1806 
and made a large purchase of land for himself, his numerous family, and two 
sons-in-law, John Quier and Frederick Lazarus. George H. Hartzell had a 
family of twelve children, eight boys and four girls, and his eldest son John 
had twelve children; George, Jr., had a family of eleven children; the daugh- 
ter who married Lazarus had ten children; William had ten children, and so on; 
George, Jr., was eighty-four; John, eighty; Christena, wife of George, sev- 
enty-four; Lazarus, eighty, and his wife seventy-eight; William seventy-eight 
years old, and so on. 

Hartzell, Senior, called together his own family and organized a congrega- 
tion on his own account. He was not a preacher, nor even an Elder, but he 
read from the Scriptures and instructed his flock. 

In 1800 Lewis Ely gave a plat of ground east of the Center to be used as 
a burying ground, and the first person buried in it was a good Indian; he was 
a little boy, and they say "all good Indians die young." Two young men 
made him a nice little coffin and stained it with the juice of maple bark. The 
next, and the first white person, to die was Betsey Rogers, who died from the 
effects of the bite of a rattlesnake. She was the daughter of Henry Rogers. 
The first marriage occurx'ed in April of this year, and the parties were John 
Campbell and Sarah Ely. They were married by Squire Calvin Austin, of 
Trumbull County, the nearest official to them who could tie the knot. The 
groom was known in after years as Gen. Campbell. The first birth occurred 
August 22, 1800, when the wife of Alva Day bora him a child, whom they 
named Polly. She became the wife of Jeduthan W. Farnum. In this year 



DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP. 421 

Lewis Day was appointed Postmaster by Postmaster-General Gideon Granger. 
In the fall of 1801 James Laughlin finished a grist-mill on the Mahoning, 
which was a great convenience, as up to that time the inhabitants had to go 
to Youngstown to get their milling done. In this year, April 12, the next child 
was boi-n, a daughter, to John and Sarah Campbell, and whom they named Anna. 
The next wedding was probably that of John Diver to Laura Ely, in the 
spring of 1804. He immediately settled on Lot 30 and opened a public house, 
which was the first tavern in the township, and whei'e there is still one kept 
called the Diver House. " Uncle John," as he was familiarly called, kept this 
tavern forty years. About 1805-06 Burhans, the German, built a rude mill on 
the Mahoning, about one mile below Laughlin's mill, but not a vestige of it 
now remains. The land tax of resident owners in 1808 was $48.78. In 1808 
Alva Day, Cromwell and Walter Dickinson and Charles Chittenden cut out and 
bridged the road from Old Portage to Range 17, west of Medina. John 
Diver, whose character resembled very much that of Jabez Gilbert, in Palmyra, 
was, like Gilbert, one of the earliest mail contractors and carriers on the 
Reserve. Diver had the first contract for carrying the mail from New Lisbon 
to Mansfield, by way of Canton and Wooster. He was in the business over 
forty years, and it is said that no obstacle, however forbidding, ever prevented 
him from keeping to the letter and intent of his contracts. Following Indian 
trails when the savages were hostile and swimming swollen streams at the 
dead hour of night were common occurrences in the early days. In the latter 
part of 1811 a company of men was raised for the purpose of ofi'ering them- 
selves to the Governmerft when hostilities would commence with the British 
or Indians, and John Campbell was elected Captain, Alva Day, First Lieu- 
tenant, and Lewis Day, First Sergeant. When they were called into service 
in July,*1812, Campbell was sick, and Lieut. Day took his place. They were 
first ordered to Lower Sandusky, and from there to Detroit to re -enforce Hull. 
While at River Raisin they were informed of the surrender of Hull, and were 
told by a British officer that they were included in the surrender. Several 
of them who were sick were sent to Maiden, where Lewis Day died. 
Lieut. Day was elected in 1815 a Judge of the Court of Common Pleas, which 
ofiice he held for fourteen years. Deerfield, not only in the early times, but 
latterly, has furnished many men who have made their marks in the history of 
the count V in the various walks of life. 

In 1801 James Laughlin erected a grist-mill, the first on the Mahoning 
River. It was also the first water-power mill in the county. * 

About 1804-05 there came to the township and settled near the Center a 
man named Noah Grant. He had a wife and a son, latter named Jesse, and soon 
after coming started a small tannery a fourth of a mile west of the Center on 
the site of the present tannery owned by H. W. Muerman. This old tanner, 
as stated elsewhere, who also followed shoe-making, was the grandfather of the 
great General who gave the Rebellion its quietus and restored the Union, and 
whose name will go ringing down the ages as one of the ablest Captains of the 
world. Noah Grant did considerable work for the Indians and was, conse- 
quently, well known to most of them in the southern part of the county, and, 
being familiar with his dusky customers, possibly drank with them sometimes. 

The correct account of Diver s murder as near as it can now be gathered, is, 
in a nutshell, about as follows: John Diver had traded a mare and colt to 
Nickshaw, an old Indian, for an Indian pony, and who got the best of the trade 
will never now be ascertained, but that Diver cheated the Indian is not reasonable 
from the fact that they were on good terms afterward, several mouths elapsing 
from the time of the trade till the shooting. Besides, the wary character of the 
Indian and his knowledge of horse-flesh, precludes any probability of his being 



422 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

cheated in that kind of a trade. It is said, however, that Nicksha'w became 
dissatisfied because the mare would not "eat sticks" — browse — in the scant 
undergrowth, not being raised on that kind of food, as the Indian rarely feeds 
his horse. The truth of the matter, no doubt, was that the treacherous and 
revengeful nature of the savage prompted him to get even with Diver, not 
because the mare was not a good one, nor that he was cheated, but that she 
was not suited to Indian modes of living, for he never asked Diver to trade 
back. He being an old man and not quite sure of his aim, employed John 
Mohawk, a young buck, to shoot his fancied aggrievor; so, on the night of 
January 22, 1807, Mohawk watched his opportunity and sent a ball through 
the temple of Daniel Diver, the brother of John, he being mistaken for his 
brother. He was shot between where the monument now stands and the 
blacksmith shop. The bullet destroyed the optic nerve and rendered the 
victim blind for life; he afterward raised a family. A party was collected 
who followed the Indians, who immediately fled into Richland Township, 
in what is now Summit County, where Nickshaw and his squaw were 
killed. Big Son, the chief, and several others were captured and brought 
back, tried and acquitted ; Mohawk escaped. It was a case of proxy all around, 
for neither Daniel Diver nor Mohawk had anything to do with the affair, 
except as shooter and " shootee." 

In 1802 Henry Shewell preached the first sermon in Deerfield Township. 
In 1803 Rev. Shadrach Bostwick, who married a daughter of Daniel Diver, 
came to the settlement with his father-in-law, and from that time made his 
home in the township when not engaged in ministerial duties. He was one 
of the very early circuit riders of the Methodist Church, and was a man pecul- 
iarly fitted for the arduous duties of the position. His endurance was won- 
derful, and, although not having much culture, his sermons were powerful, 
and just what was suited to the primitive ideas of the pioneers. He, of 
course, preached the first sermon in Deerfield, and the next was, doubtless. 
Rev. William Shewell. Rev. William Swayzey, also, was an early preacher 
of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he would get so excited that he would 
jump down from the pulpit and rake his hearers over the coals from the floor. 
The first church society organized in the county was the Methodist, about 1803 
or 1804, and consisted of the Lewis Day and Lewis Ely families; their first 
church edifice, however, was not erected until 1818, when a frame building 
was "put up" on the southwest corner of the square. The next was in 1835, 
by the same denomination. The present substantial sti'ucture was dedicated 
July 26, 1874, and is an honor to the taste, piety and liberality of the Meth- 
odists of the township. This edifice cost $8,000, and is handsomely finished 
and furnished. The present pastor is Rev. J, W- Moore. 

In 1816 Rev. Bruce organized a Presbyterian Church of the Old School, 
and they erected a small building on Lot 11, but it afterward passed into the 
hands of another branch of the church. Rev. Beers also preached here. 
The Disciples of Christ organized a church in 1828. They have a very neat 
little church now, with Rev. Pierson as pastor. The Deerfield Free Pres- 
byterian Church was incorporated in 1853. John, F. and L. Hurtzell were 
elected Trustees, Caleb Steel, Treasurer, and Jacob Shutz, Clerk. 

The first school taught in the town was presided over by Robert Campbell, 
somewhere about 1803. The house stood on Lot 20. In the following 
statistical review is shown the present condition of the Deerfield schools: 
Total revenue, $2^600; total expenditures, $1,924; eight school buildings, 
valued at $3,500; average pay for teachers, $30 for males and $22 for females; 
pupils enrolled, 102 boys and 101 gii-ls. The schoolhouse at Deerfield Center 
is a commodious and substantial building. 



DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP. 423 

Deerfield Center Business. — General store, Isaac Wilson & Son; drug and 
grocery, J. G. Preston; wagon shop, Charles Mertz; harness, H. P. Hoover; 
blacksmith, Elmer Miller; hotels, Bartlett House and Diver House; physician, 
Dr. H. M. Ogilbee; Postmaster, N. L. Wann. 

Yale. — Postmaster, Hiram Farham; wagon and blacksmith shop; steam 
saw-mill. Deerfield Station — warehouse, John S. Wilson. Benton Depot — 
warehouse, Bosworth & Shafer. Grist and saw-mill water-power, one mile 
south of Deerfield Center. Steam, saw and grist-mill, three miles southeast 
of Center. Steam saw-mill, two miles northeast of Center. Tannery, one- 
fourth mile west of Center. Tannery on southern line of township. Cheese 
factory, two miles southwest of Center. Town mill, two and one-half miles 
southeast of Center. Gunsmith, two miles northeast of Center. 

Township Oj^cers.— Trustees, C. M. Smith, F. D. Tibbals, Ely Day; Clerk, 
James Forsythe; Treasurer, H. P. Hoover; Assessor, O. P. Mowen; Consta- 
bles, H. N. Hutson, James W^atson; Justices of the Peace, J. H. Hoffman, C. 
S. Tibbals. 

Portage Oil Company was organized April 4, 1865, at Deerfield, with the 
following named members: J. S. Cowden, W, C. Wharton, Reuben H. Orvis, 
John McConry, N. N. Wann, A. T. Bacon, Samuel Diver, C. Ruel, W. Pick- 
ering, E. W. Gray, Isaac Williams, Albert Ruel, D. W. Goss, Adam McCros- 
sen, F. Hartzell, Daniel Hartzell, Joseph Waggoner and Solomon Hartzell. 
The object of organization was to dig or bore oil wells. The capital stock was 
placed at $500,000. The history of the "oil craze " of that time tells the story 
of this enterprise. 

Deerfield Agricultural Society was organized at Deerfield February 6, 1874, 
with Charles O. Betts, Harmon D. Hutson and Charles Parham members. 
This was a society for the diffusion of useful knowledge, of which the ladies 
of the township were honorary members. « 

The township is one of the best in the county, all things considered. The 
land is excellent, and it is well watered, the Mahoning River and its tributa- 
ries affording ample irrigation for the southern and western portions, whilst 
numerous small streams supply the balance. The soil is mostly a clay loam, 
and the land lies handsomely. Considerable wool is grown, in addition to a 
large surplus of the ordinary farm products. The Cleveland, Youngstowu & 
Pittsburgh Railroad passes through the township. A beautiful monument 
stands at the Center, erected to the memoiy of the gallant boys in blue who 
so nobly marched and bravely fell that their country might live. Deerfield 
sent eighty-six soldiers to the field, and fifteen of them were killed or died in 
the service. 

The statistics of Deerfield for 1884 present many interesting facts: The 
number of acres of wheat, 1,030, bushels, 17,037; 96 bushels of rye; 176 bush- 
els of buckwheat; 28,760 bushels of oats; 1,280 bushels of corn (shelled); 70 
bushels broom corn; 1,846 acres of meadow, 2,702 tons of hay; clover, 426 
acres, 654 tons of hay, 145 bushels of seed; flax, 21 acres, 270 bushels of seed, 
and 23,100 pounds of fiber; 43 acres of potatoes yielded 5,808 bushels; home- 
made butter, 55,055 pounds; home-made cheese, 4,000 pounds; 4,247 pounds 
maple sugar, and 2,815 gallons of syrup from 17,605 trees; 941 pounds of 
honey from 98 hives; 24,242 dozen of eggs; 291 acres of apple orchard pro- 
duced 4,047 bushels; 238 of peaches gave 32 bushels; 6 bushels of plums; 
wool, 30,037 pounds; milch cows, 412; stallions, 4; dogs, 104; killed 2 
sheep; died of disease — 10 hogs, 130 sheep, 12 cattle and 7 horses. Acres of 
cultivated land, 5,935, of pasture, 5,076, of woodland, 2,664, of waste land, 
211; aggregate, 13,886 acres. Population in 1850 was 1,371, including 591 
youth; in 1870, 1,025; in 1880, 985; in 1884 (estimated), 1,000. 



424 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 



CHAPTER XIX. 
EDINBURG TOWNSHIP. 

Early Settlement— Abbott and Chapman— Othek Pioneers — Eial Mc- 
Arthur and R. M. Hart — Some Noted Names— Organization and Offi- 
cers — The Champion Hunt— Old Time Adventures, Facts and Social 
Events — Churches and Schools— Edinburg Center— Business, Re- 
sources AND Statistics. 

EDINBURG, at the partition of the land of the Western Reserve, was 
drawn by Gen. William Hart, of Saybrook, Conn., who owned, in addi- 
tion to this township, which in the survey was laid off as Town 2, Range 
7, Sheffield and Saybrook on the lake and fractions of other townships. Gen. 
Hart was a very wealthy man for those times, and invested $20,000 in Western 
Reserve stock. He was a Major-General of Militia, and served in the Revo- 
lutionary Army in Rhode Island. He died in 1817, at the age of seventy-two 
years. 

In the spring of 1811 Eber Abbott, of Tolland County, Conn., arrived in 
the township and settled on Lot 2, Subdivision 5, being the southwest corner 
of the northwest quarter of the township. He built a cabin and made a 
clearing, but met with an accident that rendered him a cripple for life. A 
tree fell upon one of hip feet, and broke several of the bones. His wife 
afterward dying, he removed to Ravenna Township, and settled on a piece of 
land owned by Dr. De Wolf, about the same time marrying a sister of 
Jacob Stough, who lived near by. Abbott afterward moved to Michigan, where 
he died. 

Shortly after Eber Abbott came in, Lemuel Chapman, Jr., whose sister 
was the first wife of Abbott, settled on Lot 2, Subdivision 5, being the north- 
west corner of the southwest quarter of the township, made a clearing and 
built a cabin. He boarded with his father, who lived just across the line in 
Rootstown. The winter following his settlement he returned to Coldbrook, 
Tolland Co., Conn., for his wife and children, but just before starting, his 
wife died, and he brought his six children, part of whom lived with their 
grandfather, Lemuel Chapman, Sr. He afterward married a Widow Waller, 
of Palmyra, who also died, when he married as his third wife a maiden lady. 
Dorothy Bond, by whom he had five children. He was the father of fifteen 
children, eleven of whom were living at the time of his death, which occurred 
in November, 1857, he being a little over eighty years of age. His youngest 
child, a boy, was only twelve years old at the time. 

In 1813 a man by the name of Howard settled and made an opening near 
Silver Creek, where he resided till 1815, when ho exchanged his place for one 
near Sandusky to a James Stoops, who came in and still further improved the 
Howard settlement. Stoops was originally from Beaver County, Penn., and 
in 1790 the Indians made an attack on the settlers at Brady's Run, where his 
father lived, and carried off a number of prisoners, among them being Stoops, 
who was then a child. They were all carried to Canada, and several years 
elapsed before they were released. 



EDINBURG TOWNSHIP. 425 

In February, 1815, Alanson and Justin Eddy started from their homes in 
"Williamstown, Mass., and came all the way through in sleighs, with their 
families. Alanson made the first settlement on the farm afterward occupied 
by C. H. Rowell, and Justin broke the fii-st ground and made the first clearing 
on the splendid farm now owned by Theodore Clark. Justin had been out the 
year previously with his father and made his selection. A young man, who 
drove one of the teams for the Eddys when they came in, afterward married 
and settled down, and in after years became an excellent citizen, owning a fine, 
highly cultivated farm, all the result of his own industry and perseverance. 
This was Russell Clark, who not only was a good driver, but an expert in 
handling an ax ; the first trees cut on many of the farms of Edinburg were laid 
low by his sturdy strokes. He used to point with pride to many a huge stump, 
as the result of his early labors. 

In the year 181G a large accession was made to the population. Besides 
several others there came from Connecticut in seven wagons forty-two persons, 
being the families of Henry Botsford, Amasa Canfield, Capt. Trowbridge, 
Edmund Bostwick, Elizur Bostwick, Cyreneus Ruggles, Rial McArthur and 
Mr. Cowell, the father-in-law of the latter. They started some time in August 
and arrived on the 80th day of September. This number of persons arriving 
in one body, gave an impetus to immigration that made the little settlement 
feel like putting on organization airs, and it materially advanced the price of 
land. 

Robert Calvin, a bachelor from Virginia, caiue in about this time and set- 
tled on Lot 8. He afterward married Miss Fisher, of Palmyra, and June 15, 
1820, his son, John Calvin, who now resides in the northeast corner of the 
township, was born. David Trowbridge and Sylvester Gilbert also came in 
1816, and settled in the northeast corner of the township. 

Richard M. Hart, who was born May 9, 1795, and who still resides upon a 
portion of the land whereon he settled, was a nephew of Gen. William Hart, 
the original proprietor of Edinburg, and went to live with his uncle when he 
was six years old. The rich old uncle took a liking for the boy and provided 
well for him. giving him the entire northeast quarter of the township; so the 
young land-holder in May, 1817, came West to look up his possessions, and lik- 
ing them so well, went back to Connecticut, maiTied his sweetheart, and in the 
spring of 1818 returned and settled down for a good long life, which he cer- 
tainly has enjoyed. He first settled at Silver Creek, near the east line of the 
township, cleared eight acres and put it in wheat. At the Organization he was 
the first Treasurer, one of the Justices of the Peace and one of the Supervisors. 

In 1819 many settlers came in; among the number was Adnah H. Bostwick, 
of New Milford, Conn., who settled on Lot 8, Subdivision 2, being in the 
northeast quarter of the town. He first came to Ohio in 1805 with his father, 
who settled in Canfield, and from there went to Rootstown, then to Palmyra, 
where he married, and from there to Edinburg. 

The township had now arrived at the point when the inhabitants desired to 
become organized and have their own ofiicers, and, application being made to 
the Commissioners and granted, an election was held April 5, 1819. Edmund 
Bostwick, Justin Eddy and Daniel Trowbridge were the Judges of the Election. 
The following ofiicers were chosen: Trustees, Alanson Eddy, Daniel Trow- 
bridge, Edmund Bostwick; Justin Eddy, Clerk; Fence Viewers, Enoch Mar- 
tin, Benjamin Brown; Overseers of the Poor, Amasa Canfield, Robert Calvin; 
Appraisers Lemuel Chapman Jr., Amos Thurber; Lister, Lemuel Chapman, 
Jr.; Supervisors, Lemuel Chapman, Jr., Justin Eddy, Richard M. Hart; Con- 
stables, Daniel Trowbridge, Benjamin Brown; Treasurer, Richard M. Hart., 



426 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

At a subsequent election Justin Eddy and Richard M. Hart were chosen Jus- 
tices of the Peace. There were twenty votes cast, and sixteen tax-payei's in 
the township. The name of the township arose from the fact that Levius Eddy 
had purchased the first land in the township (although he never came into pos- 
session of a foot of it, he not having complied with the contract of purchase, 
and it passed to another), coupled with the fact that the two other Eddys 
were among the first settlers and prominent men. It was called Eddysburg 
and from that the transition was not great to Edinburg. It had, originally, 
been called " Hart and Mother," but just exactly why, does not now appear, 
unless it was in honor of the mother of Gen. Hart, an exemplary old lady, 
who had been known to some of the first settlers. 

Edinburg was not settled up as rapidly as some other of its neighbors, 
owing to the fact that the southern half had not yet regularly come into mar- 
ket; but it must not be supposed that it was entirely unsettled at that time. 
Several "squatters," as they would be called now, took up lands, and when 
they came into market bought them. This accounts for the settlement of 
1811 by Abbott and Chapman, as some have supposed that date was too early 
for them. Besides, where they settled was near the Rootstown line, and 
Rootstown at that period was far advanced, a number of Chapmans, relatives 
of the one who settled in this township, being there as early as 1801. It is 
altogether probable Lemuel Chapman, Jr., and his brother-in-law, Abbott, 
reached this place from Chapman's father's settlement across the line in 
Rootstown, as all east of them was what might be called a hoivlmg wilder- 
ness, and very correctly so, for the accounts the old settlers give of the num- 
ber of wolves in those primitive forests, especially at night, was something 
not to be ignored. 

About the biggest hunt that ever happened inside of Portage County was 
the Army Hunt of 1819, participated in by Edinburg, Rootstown, Atwater 
and Palmyra. It took place on the day before Christmas, and the slaughter 
ground was the south half of Edinburg and the north half of Atwater. It 
was conducted in the usual way, having officers and a cordon of hunters 
within seeing or hearing distance all the way around. Trumpets were sounded 
by the leaders,which signal was passed along the line, taking about five minutes to 
make the circuit. This being the summons to advance, a forward movement was 
made by all till they enclosed a space of half a mile square, when shooting 
began. After nothing else could be seen alive, the hunters gathered their 
game, and found they had 103 deer, 21 bears, 18 wolves and about 500 tur- 
keys, which were equitably divided. 

Lemuel Chapman, late one evening whilst in search of his cows in the 
woods east of his house, lost his way, and night coming on had to remain 
where he was, as he knew that wandering around would, possibly, take him 
farther away from home; so he "clum" a tree and prepared to pass the night in 
that position, in order to be safe from wolves. His family getting uneasy 
about him went in search of him and found him, but as they approached his 
tree, not knowing he was there, one of his sons, Joel, remarked: " Well, I 
guess the wolves have got daddy," when the old man sang out, "I'll get you 
when I come down," almost scai'ing the boys out of their senses. 

Justin, Polly and Sally Clark and Harriet Canfield went nutting one day, 
and were caught in a rain storm, and had to stay in the woods all night. Jus- 
tin helped each of the girls up a tree, placed the nut bags around them, and 
made them as comfortable as possible, and there they stayed till morning, but 
they were all terribly exhausted from their strained positions, and their hands 
badly swollen. Polly afterward married Seth Day, of Ravenna; Sally married 




Vi»>" 




EDINBURG TOWNSHIP. 429 

Edwin Howard, of Edinburg; and Harriet married George Bostwick, and 
many a laugh those ladies used to have over their adventure. 

In the ledge of rocks on the land where Justin Eddy settled, there was an 
immense den of yellow rattle suakes, and the boys used to pass many a Sun- 
day killing the "varmints." Seventy-two were killed at one sitting, as it were, 
and the Jumbo of the lot was hauled out and tormented by having sticks 
poked at him, until, finally, a green stick with the bark taken off was thrust 
at him, into which he struck his fangs, and the virus could be seen, we 
are told, ascending through the poi'es of the wood, twenty- two inches, and 
almost dripping out of the end of the stick! 

" Uncle " Thomas Brigdon says that the first corn he planted wap put in 
ground plowed with an ax, the "bull plow" even in that day being scarce. 
He cleared the land where the town house now stands. Also, that since he 
came here, there have died in four families thirty six persons. Justin Eddy 
and John Campbell built the first saw-mill in 1816, on Barrel Run, on Lot 2. 
Henry Botsford built another saw-mill and run it for many years. The first 
house was built at the Center by James Stoops in 1818, and the lii'st orchard 
was set out by Lemuel Chapman in 1815. In 1819 Frederick Wadsworth 
donated an acre of ground about three- fourths of a mile north of the Center, 
for a burying place. It is said that a cabin was seen in the township as early 
as 1808, by Lemuel Chapman, Jr., while on his way to his father's in Roots- 
town, but it is possible it may have been Just over the line in the township 
named, as no settler can be traced here earlier than Abbott. 

The first child born in the township was a daughter to Lemuel Chapman, 
Jr., born July 23, 1815, and the next was Richard, son of Amasa Canfield, 
born April 24, 1818, he being the first white male child born in the township. 
The third birth was a son, Asa H., to Harvey Botsford, born October 13, 1818. 
The first death was Mary J. Eddy, aged four years, a daughter of Alanson 
and Rachel Eddy, who died August 4, 1819, and the grave of this little 
girl, which remained solitary and alone for nearly a year in the grave-yard 
north of the Center can now be seen suri'ounded by others so thick that one 
cannot walk without treading upon them. The next death was that of Mrs. 
Nancy Bostwick, wife of Elizur Bostwick, died July 17, 1820, ' 

The first marriage was in February, 1817, when Greenbury Keen and Bet- 
sey Hitchcock joined fortunes. The ceremony was performed by Re'v. Caleb 
Pitkin, a Congregational minister, at the house of Alanson Eddy, with whom 
the young lady had come to Ohio. 

During the early days there was no regularly organized church in the 
township, but occasional sermons were delivered by ministers of the Connect- 
icut Missionary Society and the Methodist circuit riders, the first sermon being 
about 1812, by Rev. Nathan Damon. In 1823, however, a Congregational 
Church was organized by Revs. Caleb Pitkin and Charles B. Storrs, the mem- 
bers being Edward Bostwick and wife, Benjamin Carter and wife, Mrs. Alan- 
son Eddy, Mrs. Amasa Canfield, Mrs. Greenbury Keen and Ethel Strong. 
They afterward erected a small church, but in 1844 put up a neat and beautiful 
building. 

In the latter part of 1826 a Methodist organization was effected. They had 
no house of worship, but Rev. P. D. Horton and Rev. Phillip Green officiated 
occasionally, preaching at the houses of the settlers. The first class was fox-med 
by Edward P. Steadman, assisted by his brother. Rev, J. J. Steadman. In 1834 
a small building was commenced, but the flock being few in numbers and poor, 
the house was not finished till 1837, being used, however, in the meantime, in 
its unfinished condition. This building was occupied till 1865, when becom- 

23 



430 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

ing almost unfit for use it was remodeled and rededicated January 23, 1866, 
Bishop Kingsley preaching the dedicatory sermon. The building was finished 
in a modern and tasteful manner. 

The first school was taught in a log-house on the land of Amasa Canfield 
in 1818, and the teacher was Miss Clarissa Loomis, of Charlestown. Her schol- 
ars were Juliette A,, Edwin A. and Harriet Eddy, children of Alanson Eddy; 
Henry, Julia, Harriet, Polly and Charles Canfield, children of Amasa Canfield. 
The second school was taught by Miss Electa Bostwick, in 1819, during the 
summer, and another was taught in the following winter by Jesse Buell, near 
Gampbellsport, In 1823, however, the fathers and mothers becoming a little 
more ambitious, desired a school of a higher grade than those up to that time, 
so they employed Austin Loomis, of Atwater, to fill their bill, who entered 
into a contract with them as follows: "Decembers. Agreed with Austin 
Loomis, of Atwater, to teach school in Edinburg three months for twelve 
bushels of wheat per month, one-half to be paid' at the end of three months in 
grain, and the remainder in some other trade, such as cattle, sheep and whisky." 
A reference to the school statistics of the present day conveys a full idea of a 
half century's progress: 

Edinburg Schools. — Revenue, $2,506; expenditure, $2,375; 7 school build- 
ings valued at $4,000; pupils enrolled, 108 boys and 75 girls; average pay of 
teachers $25 per month. 

Edinburg Special District. — Revenue, $1,893.66; expenditure, $1,178; 2 
school buildings valued at $4,000; average pay of teachers, $40 per month; 
pupils enrolled, 89 boys and 27 girls. 

Edinburg Center. — General stores, Goss Bros., D. D. Davis; wagon shop; 
blacksmith shop; Postmaster, Smith Sanford; physician. Dr. H. H. Spiers. 

There is an excellent high school at the Center with Prof. Work as Princi- 
pal, and Misses Georgia Gladding and Hattie Frazier assistants. There are 
seven other schools in the township. An excellent brass band, with W. G. 
Gano as leader, furnishes music for the Edinburgers. There is also at the 
Center a Methodist Episcopal Church, Rev. Joseph Gledhill, pastor; Congre- 
gational Church, Rev. A. E. Colton, pastor; Disciples Chxuch, Elder White, 
pastor. There is a Methodist Episcopal Chapel, a branch of the church at the 
Center, but with no regular pastor. At Silver Creek is a good-sized tannery 
owned by Shultz Bros., and a saw-mill one mile southeast of the Center, F. 
B. Chapman, proprietor. Campbellsport, which partly lies in Edinburg 
Township, used to be a place of considerable importance during the old canal 
days. It now has one store kept by James Beardsley who also has the post- 
office. 

Township Officers: — Trustees, Chauncy Porter, F. I. Byers, Joseph Feath- 
erby; Clerk, H. A. Marsh; Treasurer, H. H. Spiers; Assessor, Thomas H. 
Clark; Constable, D. D. Hill; Justices of the Peace, John R. Giddings, AVill- 
iam Willsey. 

Edinburg is strictly an agricultural township, and has some of the finest 
land on the face of the globe, although hilly in some sections, and splendid 
crops are raised, besides being finely adapted to grazing. Much improved 
stock are bred and handled, and at their fairs an excellent showing is made. 
In 1856 the first sale and show exhibition occiirred, at which, on March 22 of 
that year, seed corn, oats, spring wheat and potatoes were placed in the Town 
Hall for inspection and sale. The Cleveland & Pittsburgh Railroad just touches 
the southwestern corner of the township. Edinburg furnished forty-nine sol- 
diers for the Union, nine of whom were lost in the service. 

The first saw-mill was erected by Campbell and Eddy on Barrel Run 
(Lot 2), in 1816, which was the first manufacturing industry of the town. 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 431 

Edinbui'or Farmers' Association was founded January 13, 1873, with A. S. 
Plummer, H. Horeon, W. D. Turner, James L. Dale, W. H. Weir, Daniel 
Ewing and y. Strong, for the promotion of agriculture and mutual improvement 
of members. 

Grange Hall Building Society of Edinburg was organized February 2, 
1878, with the following members: Smith Sanford, Isaac Williams, M. O. 
Gano, L. B. Wright, E. B. Higley, E. C. Myers and Hezekiah Hann. The 
purpose of organization was to build houses for a store and hall, and conduct 
the same at Edinburg. 

Edinburg Farmers' Mutual Insurance Company is one of the best conducted 
associations of this order in the whole Reserve. The entire Board of Managers 
for 1885 are named as follows: President, J. R. Giddings; Vice-President, 
T. H. Clark; Treasurer, D. D. Davis; Secretary, George P. B. Merwin- 
Directors, Vespu Clark, B. W. Gilbert. Calvin Hutson. 

The statistics of the township for 1884 are: Acres of wheat 957, bushels 
14,165; 41 bushels of buckwheat; 24,338 bushels of oats; 4,075 bushels of 
corn from 520 acres; 2,169 acres of meadow, 3,090 tons of hay; 49 acres of 
clover, 49 tons of hay and 33 bushels of seed; 5 acres of flax, 105 bushels of 
seed; 50 acres of potatoes, 6,295 bushels of potatoes; 80,682 pounds home-made 
butter; 1,660 pounds of maple sugar, and 6,174 gallons of syrup; 25,268 
maples tapped; 1,580 pounds of honey from 68 hives; 19,180 dozens of eggs; 
200 pounds of grapes; 7,315 bushels of apples; 1,455 of peaches, and 29 of 
pears; 16,468 pounds wool; 123 milch cows; 2 stallions; 93 dogs; animals 
died of disease, 3 hogs, 76 sheejj and 1 horse; acres cultivated 4,456; pasture 
15,872; woodland 2,816; aggregating 23,144 acres. Population in 1850, 
1,101, including 474 youth; in 1870, 929; in 1880, 910; in 1884 (estimated), 
950. 



CHAPTER XX. 
FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP AND KENT. 

First Settlement— The Haymakers— A Primitia^e Mill— Early Facts and 
Settlers— Contest for the County Seat— Low Price of Produce- 
First Burying Ground— Reedsbury— Organization— First Law Suit— 
Cackler's Geese— Important Primitive Industries— Fine AVater- 
PowER— The Manufacture of Glass— The Twin Villages in 1827— The 
Rival Taverns— Early ISIercHxVNts, etc., etc. — Progress of Improve- 
SFENT- Zenas Kent— Franklin Land Company— Thk Canal Outrage- 
Franklin & Warren Railroad— Incorporation— Increase or Business- 
Standing Rock Cemetery— Names, Ages and Deaths of Some Early 
Settlers— John Brown— Brady's Leap— Primitive Schools and Re- 
ligion—Sketches of the Churches— Free and Accepted Masons— Odd 
Fellowship— Other Orders and Societies. 

FRANKLIN was the first civil organization effected in what is now Portage 
County, after the admission of Ohio as a State in 1802, it being formed 
the same year. Originally it comprised the whole of the present Portage and 
parts of Trumbull and Summitt Counties. The present territory of Franklin, 
Town 3, Range 9, containing 16,000 acres of land, was purchased in 1798 by 
Aaron Olmsted, of Hartford, Conn., for 12i cents per acre, and in 1803 
Ezekiel Hoover and Ralph Buckland were employed to survey it into lots. As 



432 HISTORY OF rORTAGE COUNTY. 

early as 1803, before there was a settler or a clearing of any kind, Benjamin 
Tappan, of Ravenna, and others from Hudson, had cut a road through the 
township from Ravenna to Hudson, and built a bridge over the Cuyahoga 
River about four yards from the spot where Capt. Brady made his famous leap 
in 1790. The late Christian Cackler, then a lad of thirteen years, passed over 
this bridge with his father in 1804, on their way to the southeast corner of 
Hudson, where they settled. 

About the 1st of November, 1805. John Haymaker, his wife, Sally, and 
their three children, Jacob, Eve and Catharine, came into the township from 
Warren, where they had located a year previously, having come from Pitts- 
burgh, Penn. They were of German descent and members of a large connec- 
tion of that name in central and northern Pennsylvania, many of whom are 
still residents of that State. The father of John Haymaker had prospected 
through this section of country during the spring of 1805, and liking the 
looks of Franklin, generally, purchased from Olmsted's agent a tract of land 
covering the present site of Kent's mill. Arriving at the Cuyahoga John and 
his family took possession of a rude cabin, left by the surveyors in 1803, 
which stood just west of whei'e the upper bridge now is. This hut had been 
used for several j^ears indiscriminately by the Indians as a stable for their 
horses, and as a shelter by the deer and other wild animals, and was almost a 
foot deep with excrement, which had to be shoveled out before occupation. 
During the time they occupied this hovel the Indians came around them in 
great numbers, as the headquarters of the red skins was at the Falls of the 
Cuyahoga, and on a small stream in what is now Streetsboro Township. One 
day while the Haymakers were occupying this cabin, a few Indians came 
there and the squaw, as usual, took her pappoose from her back, and stood the 
board to which it was attached against the logs, as they never took their chil- 
dren into the houses of the whites except in very cold weather. After the 
mother had gone in, a wild hog came through the brush, and grasping the 
Indian baby ran off with it. The mother hearing the noise ran out and res- 
cued her babe, but not until the infuriated hog was badly beaten. 

In the spring of 1806 George Haymaker, brother of John, and their 
father, Jacob, came in. Jacob built a house on the west side of the river near 
where Kent's mill now stands. In April of this year Samuel Burnett was 
employed by Judge Quimby, of "Warren, to make a clearing on Lot 65, and to 
receive as payment eighty acres of land in that vicinity. He made a clearing 
and put up a cabin with the assistance of the father, Christian Cackler, but 
he did not remain there long, as Judge Quimby died and Burnett failed to get 
his eighty acres. During the following fall Frederick Haymaker came in and 
purchased a tract of land that included most of the upper village. Frederick, 
also, was a son of Jacob, and was a man of fine educational and natural abili- 
ties. He had served as private secretary to the brilliant but unprincipled Aaron 
Burr, on the famous expedition for w^hich he was tried for treason, and is said 
to have possessed the secret reasons and motives and plans of his superior, 
but he never divulged a word in regard to them; the facts, known to no one 
else, dying with the faithful secretary. Frederick was the father of twenty- 
seven children, having been married three times. The Haymaker family 
owned about 600 acres on the present site of Kent. 

During 1807 the Haymakers built a small mill, the stones used for grind- 
ing being those known as "hard heads," and were prepared by Bradford Kel- 
logg, of Hudson. The mill, of course, was a very rude affair, and was used 
before it was'entirely finished. Crotched poles were planted, upon which other 
poles were placed, and a roof thus formed. A coarse cloth was used by hand 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 433 

as a bolting-cloth. This primitive affair was a great convenience, and was 
used, with very little improvement, for several years. Andrew Kelso was the 
miller. From the fact that this mill was located here the name, Franklin 
Mills, as designating the village, originated, for in time the settlement became 
known through the mill, it receiving patronage from a large section of the 
surrounding country. 

The first white child born in the township was John F., son of John and 
Sally Haymaker, this event occurring September 11, 1807; Emily, a daughter 
to the same parents, was born November 26, 1809. The first death was that 
of Eve Haymaker, the wife of Jacob, and father of the first settler, John, and 
his brothers George and Frederick. Jacob died in 1819, John in 1827, George 
in 1838, Frederick in Trumbull County in 1851, and Sally June 15, 1869, 
at the advanced age of ninety-four years, having lived in the township sixty- 
four years. 

During the summer of 1807, after the organization of the county, there 
was a very heated competition to secure the county seat for Tappan's town 
mills. Benjamin Tappan, of course, wanted to gain the prize and brought 
much influence to bear; but Olmsted, the proprietor of Franklin, and John 
Campbell, although a resident nearer Eavenna, endeavored to secure it for the 
Haymaker settlement. Campbell was instructed by Olmsted to offer to the 
Locating Committee a plat of ground for the public buildings, and to give 
them the necessary assurance, also, that he would defray the expense of erect- 
ing a Court House and Jail. A beautiful site was selected by Campbell on a 
rise just north of where now is Standing Kock Cemetery, and it was deemed 
certain by all concerned that the county seat was secured, but Olmsted 
returned to his home in the East and died, leaving all his unsold lands to his 
grandchildren; so, when the committee came to make the necessary arrange- 
ments, they had no title to the land. Thus, Kent lost the county seat, but she 
fully makes up for it in natural advantages, and bids fair to outstrip her rival 
in population, as she has in manufacturing. 

In 1811 Jacob Reed moved into the township from Rootstown, where he 
and his brothers Charles and Abram had settled in 1804 Reed purchased the 
little mill from the Haymakers and improved it, roofing and side-boarding it. 
From this old miller the settlement came to be called for several years Reeds- 
burg, but, he selling out in 1816 to William Price and Geoi'ge B. DePeyster, 
the mill was again very materially improved, and the name Reedsburg was 
dropped, the original designation of Franklin Mills being generally adopted. 

The old burying-ground in which Eve Haymaker was buried in 1810 was 
donated by one of the Haymakers and contained about two acres of land. It 
was used until Standing Rock Cemetery was laid off, and in that old and hal- 
lowed ground lie the remains of many of the early settlers. 

In 1814 Christian Cackler was married to Theresa Nighman, the ceremony 
being performed by Fi'ederick Caris, of Rootstown. This was the first wed- 
ding in Franklin Township, and when we consider that nearly ten years had 
elapsed since John Haymaker had cut his first tree there, it will be seen how 
slowly the settlement grew. 

In 1814 Elisha Stevens erected a sawmill, the first in the township, 
which stood upon the spot where was afterward erected the Lane foundry. 
Up to this time very little timber was used except in the rough. As soon as 
Stevens got his mill in operation the settlers actually built frame houses. 

The township was organized in 1815, and an election held, at which twelve 
votes were cast, the voters being Amasa Hamlin, Elisha Stevens, George 
Haymaker, John Haymaker, David Lilly, Hubbard Hurlbut, Jacob Reed, 



434 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

Alexander Stewart, Adam Nighman, William Williams, Christian Cackler, Sr., 
and Andrew Kelso. This was the entire voting population in 1815. The 
officers elected were: Trustees, Amasa Hamlin, Elisha Stevens, George Hay- 
maker; Clerk, Hubbard Hurlbut; Justice of the Peace, John Haymaker; 
Jacob Reed and John Tucker were the Judges of Election. 

Not long after the organization, the hrst lawsuit in the township occurred. 
It was a case for damages instituted by Christian Cackler, whose geese had 
trespassed upon the lands of David Lilly, and was a reversal of the ordinary 
mode of procedure. Lilly killed several of Cackler's geese while destroying 
his (Lilly's) oats, and was sued therefor, and forced to pay for them, the Jus- 
tice holding that there was nothing in the law to prevent a goose from destroy- 
ing a man's oats, but that there was a jaenalty for killing the same goose, even 
if caught. 

Some time in the twenties a couple of cases arising from the ultra-religious 
sentiments of a few of the early settlers, occurred, which created a great deal 
of feeling. A man named Brown, who was working at one of the mills, went 
out on Sunday, having no other time through the week to do so, to gather a 
few chestnuts for his little ones. He was observed by the son of Deacon 
Andrews, informed upon, as a Sabbath-breaker, and fined $1 and costs. 
About the same time Jacob Stough and Sylvester Babcock, of Ravenna, drove 
through the settlement and the nest day were arrested at the instance of a fel- 
low named Russell, who Avas studying for the ministry. The teamsters were 
on their way home from having delivered some goods to Zenas Kent. They 
were also fined, but the good people of Franklin Mills went to Stough, and 
told him that if he would cowhide Russell Ihey would foot the bill, in order to 
clear their township of such fanaticism, and Stough did it, yet there was no 
one to make complaint against him for the act, so just was considered the 
drubbing he administered to the pious man. 

The present officers are named as follows: Justices of the Peace, Isaac Rus- 
sel, John Bentley, N. L.Barber; Constables, Oliver Newberry, John F.Clark; 
Trustees, Willard Moody, S. W. Burt, William Bassett. 

In 1818 Joshua Woodard moved into the township from Ravenna and 
commenced erecting, in conjunction with Frederick Haymaker, who had 
removed to Beaver, Peon., a number of buildings. They put up a woolen 
factory, dye-house, cabinet shop, turning- lathes, and a number of dwelling 
houses; also a hotel. Haymaker & Wocdard continued in partnership till 
about 182G, when they dissolved, the former taking the mill property, and the 
latter the hotel and other buildings. In 1822 Woodard had formed a part- 
nership with Benjamin F. Hopkins and David Ladd, who built a glass factory 
near where the upper mill now stands. They also built a tannery on the east 
side of the river, near the upj)er bridge; a woolen factory, saw-mill and ashery 
one mile east of the village, on the Breakneck Creek, and a woolen factory and 
anvil-mill in the lower village, and opened a stock of goods in the basement 
of the house of George B. DePeyster. In addition they erected a number of 
private dwellings, and did a large business till 1831, when the firm dissolved 
and divided their property. 

The settlers in the township in 1820 were: S. Babcock on Lot 1; S. Shurt- 
liflf, on Lot 2; W. R. Converse, Lot 6; G. Haymaker 10; D. McKim, 11; E. 
Pimbers, 12; S. Andrews, 13; A. Shurtliff, 16; S. Jennings, 19; R. Shurtliff, 
21; A. Loomis, 22; S. Clapp, 23; W. Newberry, 24; C. Newberry, G. B. 
DePeyster and W. Stewart, 25; T. Wallace, 27; J. Henderson, T. Williard, S. 
McMillen and J. Woodard, 30; B. Clark, 31; H.Moore, R.Moore and 
Granger, 32; J. Stewart, 38; E. Dewy, 39; H. Hurlbut, 40; E. Stevens, 42; 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. ' 435 

D. Williams, 48; A. Hamlin, 49; W. Bassett, 50; Widow Price, 51; J. Day, 
52; John Haymaker, 59; D. Lilly, (39; D. Greer, 73; and A. Stewart, 79. 
The above named appear on a chart of the town made by Selah S. Clapp. 

In 1824 James Edmunds, and Henry Park and his brother, built a glass 
factory on land now belonging to the Cackler estate, and for about ten years 
ending in 1831, William H. Price and George B. DePeyster had in operation 
in the Lower Village a grist-mill, saw-mill, forge and trip-hammer and a hemp 
factory. They also ran a general store and did a line business. They manu- 
factured scythes, axes, forks and many other articles of iron and steel. De- 
Peyster was at this time appointed Postmaster of Franklin Mills, that being 
the ofi&cial name of the office, although the twin settlements were known 
respectively as Upper Village and Lower Village. The name Carthage was 
afterward applied to the Upper Village. Postmaster DePeyster kept his mail 
matter in a cigar box, and 25 cents was the usual moderate fee of Uncle Sam 
for carrying a letter a reasonable distance. 

A sad event dissolved this enterprising firm of Price & DePeyster. In 
1831 Mr. Price went to New Lisbon, where he procured a large grindstone to 
be used in his factory, and was on his way home, having the heavy stone upon 
a wagon. It was in February, the ground being covered with ice, and 
through some jolting or jerking of the wagon the stone slipped off and fell 
upon the unfortunate owner, inflicting such injuries that he died shortly after- 
ward. Another misfortune in connection with the Price & DePeyster mills 
came in March, 1833, in the shape of a tremendous freshet that swept every- 
thing before it, carrying away the entire mill property and inflicting an almost 
irreparable loss upon the proprietor. 

In 1831-32 Frederick Haymaker sold his property, consisting of 100 acres 
of land and a tine water power in the Upper Village, to Pomeroy & Rhodes, 
who built a grist-mill, woolen factory and a cabinet shop, and set up turning- 
lathes, which they operated for several years. About this time J. C. Fairchild 
purchased the tannery put up by Woodard and others and ran it for some 
years. Mr. Fairchild erected the first brick house in town, it being a small 
building south of the John Thompson residence on the west side of the river, 
and in this building was born the son who became Gov. Fairchild of 
Wisconsin. 

With the enumeration of the above industries, we are brought to what 
might be termed the end of the first era of Franklin, or rather Kent, although 
the settlement was not known as yet by that name, it being called Carthage for 
the upper, and Franklin Mills for the lower settlement. It will be noted that the 
tastes and enterprise of the original settlers of Kent ran strongly in the 
direction of manufactories, and it is very remarkable that, with a population so 
sparse, so many mills and factories should rise, considerable in size, too; 
yet, what^she has since accomplished in this way make her original efforts 
appear pigmean. 

From an address delivered at the seventh annual meeting of the Portage- 
Summit Pioneer Association, by Rev. W. F. Day, the following facts are 
gleaned. In 1827 the spot now occupied by Kent contained two villages, hav- 
ing each about half a dozen families. They were known originally as Upper 
Village and Lower Village, but, in addition the upper one bore the classic 
title of Carthage, whilst the lower was Franklin Mills, the postal station. 
The name Carthage, however, died out, and until the present appropriate name 
was adopted, the villages were called Upper and Lower respectively, and 
Franklin Mills, collectively. - The first house built in Upper Village about 
that time was by Eber Phelps, on the site where now lives S. P. Stinaff. 



436 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

Another small house stood a few rods below Phelps, and was occupied by the 
Frosts. The third, and more pretentious building was erected by Frederick 
Haymaker, a part of which is still standing. The fourth house, as you 
come down, was the residence of Rev. William Foljambe. This house was on 
the street just west of the upper bridge, and has been down many years. He 
owned a cow that knew when Sunday came as well as her master, and would 
pack ofi" to where they held services on that day with the human regularity of 
those early church-goers. The animal, doubtless, knew when Sunday came by 
connecting the fact of wagons collecting together, all of which contained hay 
or straw for the use of the horses that hauled them, and to which she would 
make her way and filch a good feed. The fifth house was the Woodard 
Tavern, owned and kept by Joshua Woodard, and is the present Dewey place. 
Another, and the sixth house, stood a few rods west of the tavern. Passing 
southward through the woods to a point a few rods south of where the Epis- 
copal Church now stands, you come to the residence of William Stewart, 
whose daughter Maria became the wife of Hon. Marvin Kent. In the Lower 
Village was located the Lincoln Tavern, on the opposite side of the way a 
small house, and to the east was the residence of George B. DePeyster, who 
was Justice of the Peace for several years, and a Judge under the old county 
system. Franklin, for many years after the date mentioned, had no lawyer or 
scribe, and DePeyster drew up all documents requiring the peculiar and non- 
sensical phraseology of the law — his "hereunto attached," "fetch, bring and 
convey the body of," and his "for, and in consideration of and by," being 
deemed absolutely essential to the legality of any paper between man and 
man. On the opposite side of the street was the residence and store of Capt. 
Price, and on the brow of the hill above the grist-mill was a small building in 
which was kept a store by Samuel Foljambe, now of Cleveland. There were 
two dams to the river, each village having one. The upper dam was nearly 
against the Woodard Tavern, but was afterward moved a few rods farther 
down, where a grist-mill was built. The lower dam was across the river, a 
little above the present location of the flouring-mills, and a flouring-mill, the 
only one in the two villages, stood near the site of the present mill, whilst on 
the other side of the river was an oil-mill. In the Lower Village was a saw- 
mill. There was also a small glass factory, a woolen-mill and a tannery, and 
these, added to the others, with possibl}^ the addition of two or three small 
houses, constituted the two villages. 

W^oodard's Tavern, and Lincoln's Tavern, were great rival hostelries. They 
were each kept by more than ordinarily shrewd men, and both of the proprie- 
tors were accommodating and pleasant hosts, coming fully up to the standard 
of knowing " how to keep a hotel. " And they both exerted their powers to 
obtain custom, using all fair means to divert travel one from the other. There 
were two roads of travel between Ravenna and Cuyahoga Falls. About one 
mile west of Ravenna was the Black Horse Tavern. There the road to Cuya- 
hoga Falls divided. The northern route, starting off where it now does, ran 
about where the present road does, save that it crossed directly between the 
lakes, instead of turning to the north as it does. After reaching the Wood- 
ard Tavern it dropped south a few rods, when it turned west across the woods 
and came out near John Perkins' place. The other road, after leaving the 
Black Horse Tavern, crooked around somewhat, though running in the same 
general direction as the present one, until, within about a mile of the town, it 
turned off to the southwest, crossing the Cuyahoga on a bridge a little below 
the grist-mill, then continuing on until it intersected the other. One road, 
therefore, was the road to Woodard's, and the other to Lincoln's, and the 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 439 

strife between the rival taverakeepers was which should succeed in turning 
the travel at the Black Horse Tavern, or at the Perkins place. They had 
handbills and signs eulogizing their respective houses, each showing conclu- 
sively why his route was the best for general travel, and why the other was a 
great deal farther, a great deal rougher, and entirely unfit for any sane man 
to think of taking, unless compelled to do so. The Cleveland & Pittsburgh 
stage was then running, and the great point was to get the stage route. Some- 
times Lincoln would induce the stage company to run by his route, and then 
Woodard would get them to adopt his. The matter was finally compromised 
by running on the Woodard road from the Black Horse Tavern to Wood- 
ard's, when the stage would then drive down to Lincoln's, and then on west. 
About the date 1827 Jairus Cassius Fairchild came into the Upper Village, 
built a house opposite Woodard's, and opened a tannery on the other side of 
the river. He then built the brick store which was taken down some years 
ago, that being the first store in the Upper Village. A Mr. Root was associated 
with him. There were then two stores in the Lower Village, but shortly after- 
ward a Ml'. Button opened a store in the Upper Village, and Carthage for a 
time ran ahead of its rival. This store was in the south end of Woodard's 
Tavern, but the proprietor dying, G. D. Bates, now of Akron, carried on the 
business. 

No doubt it was the fact of there being two distinct dams, that two vil- 
lages grew up so close together, but when the Pennsylvania & Ohio Canal 
Company destroyed the water-power, and especially when the brick buildings, 
owned respectively by Zenas Kent and Joy H. and Nelson Pendleton, were 
erected, all competition ceased, and everything has moved harmoniously since. 

Outside of the villages there were, possibly, about twelve or fifteen fam- 
ilies, and taking these with those in the villages, gave a population of not 
very far from 125 souls in the entire township. The following in regard to 
those outside of the villages is gleaned from a source considered to be as 
accurate as can be obtained at this late date. There may have been a few oth- 
ers who afterward passed away and became forgotten. In the northern section 
Jacob Lilly lived on the east banks of the East Twin Lake; John Haymaker 
was occupying the Olin place, half a mile or so below, where the roads fork. 
Edward Farnham had a small clearing on the east side, and Paul Davidson on 
the west side of the lake; a little further down was the settlement of Amasa 
Hamlin, whose wife, familiarly called Aunt Sallie, was a " holy terror" to the 
young men who attended "meeting" where she did, for if the pious old lady 
would detect any one of them whispering or misbehaving, she would march 
over to where he sat and take a seat beside him. As everybody knew what 
Aunt Sallie meant by that, the unfortunate offender became "spotted" forever 
after. In the northwestern part of the township lived the Cacklers; John 
Dewey lived where he died some years ago. In the eastern part of the town, 
Barber Clark, a Moore family, the Busts, the Clapps, Deacons Andrews and 
McBride, Timothy Wallace, Andrew Kelso, Alexander Stewart, Adam Nigh- 
man, Hubbard Hurlbut, Elisha Stevens, and a few others also were residents. 



In May, 1832, Zenas Kent and David Ladd purchased the Price & De 
Peyster property, the mill on which had been swept away the preceding Feb- 
ruary, they paying for the entii-e site $7,000. The property consisted of 300 
acres of land, including the fine water-power of the Cuyahoga. In the course 
of a year Mr. Kent bought his partner's interest, and continued the improve- 
ments. In 1836 Mr. Kent and Messrs. Pomeroy & Rhodes sold their entire 



440 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

interests, the first for $75,000, and the latter for $40,000. Kent received in 
cash $25,000, and P. O. K. $30,000 from the Franklin Land Company. The 
parties buying were known as the Franklin Land Company, which in the year 
following transferred its interest to a company incorporated as the Franklin 
Silk Company, the following gentlemen being the members: Norman C. 
Baldwin, Triiman P. Handy, Alexander Seymour, David H. Beardsley, Sher- 
lock J. Andrews, John A. Foote, Solomon L. Severance, John S. Potwin, Seth 
W. Crittenden, Flavel W. Bingham, of Cleveland; Augustus Baldwin, John 
B. Clark, Van R. Humphrey, of Hudson; Elisha Beach, Nathan Button, of 
Franklin; Theodore Noble, of Middlebury ; Zenas Kent, George Kirkham, 
George Y. Wallace, of Ravenna; Frederick Wadsworth, of Edinburg; and 
James W. Wallace, of Boston. This company made great improvements. 
They erected the fine stone dam and the wooden bridge, where now stands the 
fine stone bridge, and seemed to lay out a splendid future for Franklin Mills. 
The company contracted with the canal company to build the dam, but, as the 
canal people, besides controlling the water at this point, were interested in the 
then rival town of Akron, they diverted nearly the entire volume of the Cuyahoga 
to their canal, ostensibly for navigation purposes, but really to furnish water- 
power to Akron. This was a terrible blow, as well as an outrage on the strug- 
gling, yet plucky and enterprising people of the twin villages. The property 
of the Silk Company depreciated, it became embarrassed, their circulating 
notes were retired, and it finally went into insolvency. But, fortunately, by 
legal process and purchase, the property fell into the hands of a man whose 
stamen and ability were equal to the emergencies. This man was Zenas 
Kent, who did all in his power to revive the flagging interests and to recover 
from the effects consequent upon the loss of the water-power to the villages. 
In 1848 the property was sold to Henry A. and Marvin Kent, who for thirty- 
five years, have been engaged in promoting the interests of the now consoli- 
dated villages. They erected a large cotton-mill, but through the failure of 
Eastern parties to fulfill their obligations in the matter, the factory was not 
stocked. Glass works were erected, and other enterprises inaugurated, but the 
village languished until the completion of the Franklin & Warren Railroad, now 
the New York, Lake Erie & Western, lately known'as the N. Y., P. & O. R. R. 
This great road was a conception of the brain of Marvin Kent, who early saw 
that the future would require a great thoroughfare to run diagonally across 
Ohio, and he ceased not his labors till he heard the whistle of the first passen- 
ger train of the Atlantic & Great Western Railroad as it approached Franklin 
Mills on the 7th day of March, -1863, in which year the name of the duplex 
villages was changed to Kent, in honor of the projector, executor and Presi- 
dent of the now colossal railroad system. The location of the principal shops 
at Kent, and it being the termini of two divisions, gave a marked stimulus to 
the village, and it being the geographical centre of the road, an elegant depot 
and dining-rooms, to which H. A. and M. Kent donated grounds valued at 
about $10,000, were erected. 

John Brown, of Harper's Ferry fame, came into the adjoining township 
of Hudson with his father in 1805, and moved into Franklin Mills in 1835, 
being then thirty five years of age. He built a house which he intended open- 
ing as a boarding house, but failed in his venture through some cause or 
another. The house still stands in Kent, and was used some years ago by a 
party for the very purpose Brown intended it. Brown & Thompson's addition 
to Franklin Village was platted by John A. Means, surveyor, in 1838, and record- 
ed October 22, that year. This embraced twenty- one acres, extending from the 
bend of the river to the east line of Township Lot 12, and from the north line 
of Township Lot 12 to the south line of saine lot. This plat was vacated. The 



I 
FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 441 

Island tract and extension to Water Street of fortv-five acres was purchased by 
Marvin Kent from Capt. Heman Oviatt, to whom it was conveyed by John 
Brown. The descriptions on the original plat, now in Marvin Kent's possession, 
are in John Brown's handwriting. 

On May 7, 18G7, Kent was incorporated, and the first Mayor elected was 
John Thompson. Five Trustees, corresponding to Councilmen, were also 
selected, they being C. Jones, James Glass, Joseph Bethel, E. A. Parsons and 
A. D. Power. The Recorder was John P. Catlin. 

1867, John Thompson, Mayor; John P. Catlin, Recorder. 1868, John 
Thompson, Mayor; L. H. Parmelee, Recorder. 1869, E. W. Stuart, Mayor; 
H. G. Allen, Recorder. 1870, S. P. Wolcott, Mayor; D. H. Kiiowlton, 
Recorder. 1871, S. P. Wolcott, Mayor; J. P. Hall, Recorder. 1872-74, Isaac 
Russell, Mayor; A. C. Hind, Clerk. 1874-76, Charles H. Kent, Mayor; Frank 
Woodard, Clerk. 1876-78, Charles H. Kent, Mayor; N. B. Rynard, Clerk; 
1878-82, James Woodard, Mayor; W. I. Caris, Clerk. 1882-84, O. S. Rock- 
well, Mayor; W. I. Caris, Clerk. 1884, W. I. Caris, Mayor; Robert Reed, 
Clerk. 

The official list for 1884-85 is as follows: 

Mayor, W. I. Caris; Clerk, James Wark; Marshal, W. H. Palmer; Street 
Commissioner, Charles Anglemyer. 

Councilmen. — A. C. Hind, Thomas Lyons, Robert Christian, G. T. Case, 
John Cross, B. F. Hargreaves. 

Board of Health.— George Rouse, H. T. Lake, F. L. Dunning, H. M. Foltz, 
Dr. E. W. Price, Dr. J. S. Sweeney; Oliver Newberry, Health Officer; H. K. 
Foltz, Clerk. 

Board of Education. — E. A. Parsons, Robert McKeon, Thomas Egbert, I. 
L. Herriflf, A. L. Ewell, C. S. Brown. 

On October 26, 1875, the Council authorized the purchase of a Silsby 
engine, hose cart, hose, etc., for the sum of $3,400. In March, 1876, the Fire 
Department was organized as a department of the village. 

The issue of bonds for $6,000, money required to make additions to the 
triple-arched bridge at Kent, over the Cuyahoga at Main Street, was authorized 
March 25, 1877. 

The cemetery bonds were issued last year for cemetery purposes. 

The first school in the township is said to have been taught in the winter 
of 1815-16 by Abner H. Lanphare, of Brimfield, in a small cabin that had 
been erected by a Mr. Rue in 1811, but just where it stood has now been for- 
gotten. In the summer of 1817 the inhabitants erected a building, regardless 
of religious proclivities, to be used as a meeting-house for all sects, and for 
school purposes. It stood on the east side of the river near where Dr. Crain 
used to live. Among the early teachers, in addition to Lanphare, maybe men- 
tioned Amasa Hamlin, who taught awhile more for accommodation than pay; 
also Miss Orpha Curtiss, and a Miss Thayer. Up to about 1830 there was only 
one schoolhouse here, the one built in 1817, and one teacher. The growth of 
educational interests since that time is shown by the following statistics: 

Franklin Township Schools. — Pupils enrolled, 66 boys and 64 girls; 5 
schoolhouses valued at $6,670; Revenue in 1884, $4,780.58; expenditures, 
$3,524.48. 

Franklin Union School District.—Pupils enrolled, 387 boys and 406 girls; 
3 schoolhouses valued at $50,000; revenue, $19,461, in 1884; expenditures, 
$13,417.20. 

There is one of the finest educational buildings in the State to accommo- 
date the excellent union schools, under the able management of Prof. A. B. 
Stutzman, Superintendent of Instruction of the city. The Principal is Miss 



442 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

Anna M. Nutting. The teachers are Mrs. A. L. McClellan and Misses Stella 
M. Pearson, Addie E. Stewart, Georgie Gladding, Nellie Jones, Nellie Gettys, 
Belle Bradley and Anna Christian. 

Keligious services were held at an early day, but just exactly where and 
when is not now definitely known, nor is it certainly remembered who preached 
the first sermon in the township. Rev. Shewell is thought by many to 
have been the first to expound the Word of God in this portion of the wilder- 
ness, and others think that Rev. Shadrach Bostwick, a Methodist Episcopal min- 
ister who came to Deerfield in an early day, came up here about the first. 
Rev, Joseph Badger preached in Mantua as early as 1802, and it is altogether 
probable that he addressed the settlers here as elsewhere afterward. Rev. 
Caleb Pitkin was also quite a noted Congregational minister, and it is more 
than likely he preached here at an early day. But the Congregational Church 
has the earliest documentary evidence and must be accorded first place. 

Congregational Church. — By an arrangement entered into between the 
authorities of the Congregational and Presbyterian Churches, a plan of union 
was adopted by which in a community where there were a few of each they 
might unite in a common society and thus sustain religious services when 
neither could have done so alone. There being a few Congregationalists and 
a few Presbyterians scattered through the township, they came together June 
18, 1819, and organized themselves into a society under the care of the Port- 
age County Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church, the following persons 
being the members: Samuel Andrews and wife, Samuel L. Andrews, John 
Jones and wife, Mrs. Roxana Newberry, Mrs. Jared Thayer and Mrs. Amos 
Loomis. They held public services in the schoolhouse, and had occasional 
preaching from missionaries till 1825, when Rev. George Sheldon became 
their pastor. Mr. Sheldon was a young man of quick perceptions and a high 
order of intellect, but extremely sectarian in his religious views, so much so 
that he would not at first fraternize with other denominations, but this wore 
off in time and he became a portion of the community like anybody else. He 
built a large two-story frame house about midway between the villages, just 
north of the Kent residence, which was the finest house for the time in this 
section. He remained with the church till 1831, when the congregation was 
without a pastor until 1836, at which time Mr. Sheldon was again called to 
the pastorate. In the meantime the society had erected the neat brick edifice 
which was dedicated in the year named. In 1839 Rev. S. W. Burritt was 
called as their pastor. During the pastorate of Mr. Burritt a remarkable 
revival occurred and a large number of persons were converted, among whom 
was W. F. Day, afterward a well known preacher. These meetings were in 
charge of Rev. Avery. Burritt was reserved in his manner, and thereby 
failed to attract the sympathies of his entire flock. At one of their " confes- 
sional " meetings some of the members honestly made it known that they did 
not like their pastor, which so shocked the good man that he resigned his 
charge, went to Cleveland, and abandoned the ministry. The church was then 
without a minister for some time, when Mr. Bates, who also taught an acad- 
emy here, took charge. Rev. Ira Tracey came in 1846, and Rev. John A. 
Seymour from 1852 to 1856. In 1858 the new church was built, during the 
ministrations of Rev. T. M. Dwight. In a short time after this came Rev. 
John C. Hart, who was followed by Rev. D. B. Conkling in 1868; then came 
Rev. A. C. Barrows. The present pastor is Rev. Chase. The church is in a 
very fair condition.* 

*A story is related of Mr. Sheldon by his son, who is now a residentof St. Louis. Conversing with a friend 
one day he remarked that he would never believe or trust a man who drank whisky. The friend appeared to 
acquiesce in this view, and went farther still by the statement, "I wouldn't believe a man who swears, unless it 
be Zenas Kent." 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 443 

Methodist Episcopal Church. — Not far from the date of the orgaDization of 
the Congregational Church, the Methodists came together and formed a class 
and held occasional meetings. In 1822 the Deerfield Circuit was formed with 
Rev. Ezra Boothe and Rev. William Westlake as the preachers, and Franklin 
was one of their charges. Then came Eevs. Dennis Goddard and Elijah H. 
Fields. In 1824 Rev. Ira Eddy and Rev. B. O. Plympton were the pastors. 
These gentlemen found the society in a terrible wrangle. Some claimed to be 
members and others were denying it; so, after one of the preachers had listened 
to their disputes, he took the church records and throwing them into the fire, 
told the people that if they wanted to be members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church they would have to join over again. This cut the Gordian knot, and 
harmony was restored. The society in its reformed condition, consisted of 
the following persons: Amasa Hamlin, wife and two sons, Hubbard Hurlbut, 
wife and son, Jacob Lilly and wife, John Dewey and wife, John Perkins and 
wife, Rev. William Foljambe and wife, Samuel Foljambe and a Mrs. Burgher. 
The society worshiped for several years in the schoolhouse, but in 1828 they 
fitted up a small building, which of late years is known as the Morris House, a 
little above S. P. Stinaff's, on the opposite side of the road. This was really 
the first church building in the township, being used exclusively for religious 
purposes, although it was afterward used as a schoolhouse. The Methodists 
occupied this building until they erected their regular church in 1840. Some 
strong preachers held forth in that first little building, and among those may 
be mentioned Rev. Charles Elliott, who was Presiding Elder in the early days. 
He was an Irishman and full of wit. On one occasion when holding class 
meeting, several of the penitents expressed great desire to leave this wicked 
world and go to Heaven. Elliott stopped one of them short and said that as 
far as he was concerned he wanted to go to Heaven when his time came, but 
just now he wanted to go home to Phoebe, his wife. Father Eddy was also a 
strong character. With Eddy in 1825 was associated John Summerville, who 
was followed by Revs. Philip Green, Peter D. Horton, E. H. Taylor, George 
AV. Robinson, J. W\ Hill, J. C. Ayers, Cornelius Jones, C. Motfitt, Thomas 
Carr, John E. Aikin, Wilder B. Mack, John McLean, Aurora Callender, 
Hiram Gilmore, William Stevens, W. S. Warallo, Edward J. Kenney, Alfred 
G. Sturgis, E. J. L. Baker, W. F. Wilson, L. D. Mix, D. M. Stearns, L H. 
Tackett, E. Reeves, J. McLean, A. Burroughs, J. L. Holmes, A. M. Reed, 
W. H. Hunter, M. H. Bettes, T. B. Tait, W. M. Bear, W. A. Matson, S. 
Heard, L. W. Ely and a host of others of recent date. Mr. Jones, who was 
here in the early days, is remembered for his almost angelic temperament. 
Wilder B. Mack was one of the most graceful of pulpit orators, and Alfred G. 
Sturgis was considered a very impressive and eloquent man. The church has 
a good membership and is in a very prosperous condition, with a large Sunday- 
school. The present pastor is Rev. J. E. Smith. 

Church of the Disciples of Christ. — The next church in the order of its 
organization is the Disciples, which was formed into a regular society in 1827. 
They encountered very bitter opposition at first, more so than any Protestant 
denomination of the century. The violence of the opponents of the teachings 
of the Campbells was one of the most unaccountable features of the early 
religious days, but this violence and opposition was met by the sturdy blows 
of a number of powerful expounders, in the persons of such men as Revs. 
Walter Scott and Sturdevant and Bosworth. Churches which disagreed in 
everything else joined hands in attempting to put down the efforts of this 
sect, but, like all persecuted causes, it thrived upon the very weapon sjiur led at 
it. The society at its organization consisted of Selah Shurtliff and wife, 



444 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

Lydia Shurtliff, Desin Shurtliff, Luman Shurtliff, Naham Smith and wife, 
Setli Corbett and wife and William Converse. The following have been 
pastors of this church: Revs. A. Sturdevant, C. Bosworth, A. B. Green, 
Moore, T. Muunell, Griffin, Cronemejer and one or two others. They 
have a neat and comfortable church edifice and are doing a good work after 
the concentrated opposition offered them. Disciples Church was organized 
under State law, December 12, 1853, with George Van Selah, S. C. Clapp and 
James G. Wallace, Trustees, and Eieazer W. Crane, Secretary. 

Protestant Episcopal Church. — Previous to 1835 there had been a number 
of Episcopalians in the township, but there was no organization as a church. 
In the year named, on October 11, Rev. A. Sandford formally instituted a 
church, the services being held in the red schoolhouse in the Lower Village, at 
which time the following persons became members: Edward Parsons, Levi 
Stoddard, Francis Furber, Thomas Cartwright, Lucius M. Lattimer, George 
B. DePeyster, David McBride, Asa Stanley, Chaancy Newberry, David 
Frazier and Tileman W^agoner, being the male members and representing 
heads of families. Asa Stanley was Senior W^arden and Edward Parsons, 
Junior Warden. The Vestrymen were Levi Stoddard, Francis Furber, Thomas 
Cartwright and George B. DePeyster; L. M. Lattimer was Clerk. The 
present church building Avas consecrated June 12, 1838 by Bishop Mcllvaine. 
Rev. Grin Miller was the first Rector, serving from 1834 to 1841. The Rectors 
following the last date have been: Revs. G. S. Davis, A. Bronson, A. Phelps, S. 
Hollis, L. L. Holden, S. S. Cheevers, J. F. Curtis, T. Taylor, W. H. Capers 
and A. J. Brockway. They have no Rector at the present time. 

Baptist Church. — Not far from the year 1835 a small Baptist society was 
formed in Franklin, but the members were very few, the Knowlton family 
being the principal adherents. This denominatio», strong in many localities, 
for some reason or another has never succeeded in gaining the foothold most 
of the other churches have, although the sparse membership has consisted of 
some of the most excellent people. For years they were without preaching at 
all; and have generally been very irregularly supplied. This church was 
reorganized March 14, 1875. The original members were L. Twitchell, E. B. 
Smith, W. H. Van Horn, R. Dillon, A. Newton, George Botham and George 
Botham, Jr., Rev. Lambert Twitchell preaching gratuitously for it for four 
or five years, during which period they erected a very neat, though small 
church edifice. The society is on a better footing than it ever has been, and 
they now have stated services, Rev. M. N. Smith being pastor. 

Free-Will Baptist Church, of the Rapids, elected D. B. Crafts, Clerk; A. 
R. Crafts, Ariel Proctor and Oscar Chamberlain, Trustees, and John Bartholo- 
mew, Deacon, at its reorganization. 

Universalist Church. — There being a Universalist Church established at an 
early day in Brimfield. the members of that denomination in Franklin attended 
divine service there, Alvin Olin and family being about the first who held to 
that faith in the township. On the fourth Sabbath of May, 1866, an organiza- 
tion was effected. A reorganization of the Franklin Universalist Conference 
took place March 3, 1867. Alvin Olin, P. Boosinger and J. D. Haymaker, 
were elected Trustees; A. M. Shuman, Treasurer, and Nelson Olin, Clerk. 
Among the members were Ransom Olin, J. G. Whitcomb, T. H. Marshall, 
Mary R. Haymaker, Eliza W^right, Mary J. Parsons, Mary Boosinger, Almira 
Russell, A. Merrill, Mary A. Furry, Sybil Bradley, Effie Parsons and Rhoda 
Boosinger. The pastors of the church have been Revs. Andrew Willson, J. S. 
Gledhill,- Edward Morris; the present pastor is Rev. R. B. Marsh. The 
church building, costing $17,000, is a tasteful and commodious structure, and is 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 445 

free of debt. It was dedicated in 1868. Thev have a membership of about 
200. 

St. Patrick's Catholic Church. — This church was organized in Kent in 
1867, by Rev. P. H. Brown, at the time pastor of Hudson, Kent then being 
one of the out-missions under his charge. Forty families comprised the 
church organization at first, but in after years it has run up to about 100 
families. The church edifice was erected in 1868, at a cost of ^12,000, and 
is practically free from debt. They have a very tastefully laid ovTt cemetery. 
The priests in charge have been Revs. P. H. Brown, W. J. Gibbons, J. P. 
Carroll, J. D. Bowles, Fathers O'Neill, Louis Braire, and Rev. J. T. Cahill. 
In February, 1885, a priest was appointed for this parish. 

• Evangelical Lutheran Church. — For several years past there have been a 
number of persons holding to the tenets of this church, and have had occa- 
sional preaching to them by ministers of this denomination, but during the 
year 1884 they built a very neat little structure in which Rev. Mr. Pauls^i-ove 
preaches for them. It is, though small in numbers, an active and zealous 
helper in the work of the Lord. 

Free and Accepted Masons. — Rockton Lodge, No. 316, F. & A. M., was 
organized in the fall of 1858, and worked under dispensation till October 21, 
1859, when a charter was granted by Horace M. Stokes, M. W. G. M. ; J. N. 
Bust, D. G. M. ; James Williams, S. G. W.; George Webster, J. G. w! ; John 
D. Cadwell, G. S. The first officers of the lodge were A. M. Sherman, W. M ; 
W\L. Holden, S. W. ; J. S. Fisk, J. W. The late Gen. L. V. Bierce, P. G. M.,' 
was deputized by the Grand Lodge to institute this lodge, which he did with 
imposing ceremonies. The membership is 160. In 1870 the lodge built a fine 
hall at a cost oflS6,000, which is 85x45 feet inside of all. 

Odd Fellou-ship.—'&vQ.dj Lodge, No. 183, I. O. O. F., was charted July 10, 
1851, by the Grand Lodge of the State of Ohio, S. Craighead, W. G. M. ; 
Spencer Shears, D. G. M. ; W. F. Slater, G. W. ; Alex. A. Glenn, G. S. ; 
Mark Pritchard, G. T. The charter members were Asa Douglass, J. C. B. 
Robinson, Charles H. Kent, M. P. Husted, \V. I. Knowlton and David L. 
Rockwell. The order has a very fine hall, finely decorated and finished, and a 
membership of 103. 

Knights of Honor— Cuyahoga Lodge, No. 316, K. of H., was chartered 
June 30, 1876, by the Supreme Lodge of the World, J. N. Ege, S. D. The 
charter members were G. S. Howden, Robert McGhee, A. C. Hines, N. ^^\ 
Gregg, E. B. Smith, W. R. Emery, F. W. Root, A. D. Clark, W. H. Van 
Horn, A. B. Bertram, E. Herman/E. M. Jones,! E. Parkinson, W. M. Stokes, 
A. D. Orr, J. T. Wishart, George^ulsinger, John Stouffer, D. H. Plump, J. 
S. Smith, M. A. Norris, W. I. Cook. They have seventy-six members. 

Royal Arcanum, No. 106, was chartered June 13, 1878, with twenty-seven 
members. The chief officers or Regents were W^ W\ Patton (1878), J. D. 
Davis, M. A. Norris, I. L. Herriff, O. S. Rockwell, N. J. A. Minnich, Martin 
Holdridge and N. B. Rynard. The Secretaries were J. O. Judd, James Wark, 
M. A. Thorpe, Orlando Thorpe, L. C. Reed, W. R. Jones and A. B. Stutz- 
man. The number of members at present is forty-six. The financial stand- 
ing of the lodge is good. 

A. H. Day Post, No. 185, G. A. J?., was organized December 11, 1882, and 
was chartered December 30, 1882, and named in honor of the late A. H. Day, 
of the Seventh Ohio Infantry. The charter members were James Crane, L. G. 
Reed, N. B. Rynard, F. L. Allen, C. P. Rodenbaugh, M. L. Robinson, F. B. 
Allen, G. A. Furry, J. S. Sweeney, W. M. Stokes, B. A. Brewster, B. W. Fes- 
senden, Sam Dobbins, D. P. Holcomb, A. D. Clark, A. C. Hinds, A. P. Powell, ' 



446 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

E. Minnich, L. N. Kaw, John Kubbins, H. W. Kirk, B. F. Hargeaves, C. H" 
Barber, Hugh B. Deads, F. H. Vickers, H. L. Atkins, Leander Johnson, W. 
E. Greanfield, I. L. Heriff, R. McGhee, Ed. Wells, William Ropson, W. fl. 
Van Horn, H. M. Foltz, George Harter, F. L. Dunning, Thomas May, A. A. 
Rogers, S. J. Rouse and Robert Smith. F. L. Dunning was First Commander 
in 1882 and 1883. J. S. Sweeney was elected in 188-4, and Robert McGhee in 
1884-85. N. B. Rynard was First Adjutant; F. B. Allen, Second Adjutant, 
in 1883-84, and Ezra Fowler in 1884-85. The members not mentioned in the 
foregoing record are John Bechtel, George Meacham, M. B. Norton, William 
Tucker, G. W. Myers, M. N. Smith, H. H. Snyder, M. V. Merrill, P. Y. 
Barnes, George L. Andrews, Jefferson Thomas, W. H. Fergurson, C. D. Bug- 
gies, J. S. Cook, H. H. Holden, L. L. Johnson, M. C. Clark, J. H. Howell, J. 
M. Irwin, Charles Waldron, John Fitzpatriok, John Allman, A. B, Stutzman, 
Charles S. Tyson, D. Baker, Frederick Myers, Henry J. Shook, H. D. Sawyer, 
John Cross, John Willeston, W. Champney, George Gangle, John I. Hast- 
ings, O. Champney, G. Bertholf, Phil. Ulm, Ezra Fowler, Levi Reed, S. B. 
Cuthbert, S. B. Bailey, Paul Clark, L. M. Chapman, Dallas Moulton, George 
Moon, I. F. Wilcox. H. O. Barton, W. S. Nickerson, C. A. Nickorson, H. W. 
Gridley, William Miller and Moses Owen. This is one of the most progres- 
sive posts in this district. 

Franklin Township sent to the army of the Union 161 soldiers, twenty- 
six of whom either fell before the enemy or died in the service. 

Kent Dramatic and Literary Association gave the first entertainment in 
February, 1885. The drama adapted was "Green Bushes," in which the fol- 
lowing-named members appeared: F. H. Vickers, W. Donaghy, B. F. Har- 
greaves, A. C. Hind, T. D. Ruggles, R. McKeon, Thomas May, A. Wilder, A. B. 
Bertram, Thomas May, Jackson, Harry Vickers, Alexander, W. Stratton, Jones, 
Holmes, Hastings, McNeal, Davis, Russell, Miss Polly May, Miss Maud Jack- 
eon, Miss Rose Green, Mrs. Thomas May, Miss Emma May, Miss Bertha Har- 
greaves and Miss Ada Minx. Robert McKeon is Secretary and Treasurer. 

Franklin Manufacturing Company was also organized June 16, 1851, for 
the purpose of manufacturing cotton, wool and flax. The Kent brothers, S. 
Huggins and A. H. Allen held 4,000 shares of $50 each. This company was, 
in reality, formed for the purpose of holding the water-power of the Cuyahoga 
River at this point, and other property, such as the woolen-mills, saw- 
mill, etc. 

Franklin Cotton Mills Company was organized June 13, 1851, with'Zenas, 
Charles and Marvin Kent, Sylvester Huggins and Fred Whipple, incorpora- 
tors. There were 6,000 shares, yielding a capital of $150,000. This was 
organized for the purpose of manufacturing cotton. Gen. James, of Provi- 
dence, was one of the projectors. The cotton industry was never established, 
as the plant was not supplied under the contract. . 

Joseph Turner & Sons Manufacturing Company was organized March 20, 
1880, with Joshua Turner, Mrs. Martha Turner, Jonas Hey, John G. Turner 
and Alice H. Hey, members. The object of this association was the manu- 
facture of alpaca cloth and other textile fabrics. The capital was placed at 
$100,000. In 1878 the firm of Joseph Turner & Sons leased the old cotton 
factory from H. A. & M. Kent, introduced English machinery in 1879, and 
inaugurated the manufacture of alpaca early in 1879, employing seventy-five 
hands. The firm now employs 120 hands annually. There are 114 looms and 
1,800 spindles. The machinery is valued at $50,000. The buildings are 
some of the finest devoted to industry in the Western Reserve. John G. 
Turner is President, and Joshua Turner is Secretary and Treasurer. 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 449 

Kent Woolen Company was organized February 4, 1867, with Marvin 
Kent, R. Dyson, H. L. Kent, E. L. Day and E. P. Williams, members. The 
capital was placed at $20,000. This company's mills were destroyed by tire in 
1867. A biiilding was moved to the site of the old woolen-mills, which is 
now used as a warehouse by W. S. Kent. 

Franklin Glass Company was organized June 13, 1851, with Charles H. 
and Marvin Kent, H. M. Grennell, George W. Wells and Horace Sizer, stock- 
holders. There were 800 shares, aggregating $20,000. Joseph Lyman was a 
member of this company. The works were built in 1849-50. 

Day, Williams & Co., Rock Glass W^orks, were established in 1864 by 
Ed. L. Day and Charles T. Williams. The works were erected by Kent, Wells 
& Co. in 1849 and 1850, and purchased in 1864 by the present owners. The 
industry employs 100 men annually; the capacity of the works is 70,000 boxes. 

Franklin Glass Company was founded January 24, 1873, with Eben Apple- 
gate, Henry Brooks, Lewis C. Haler, Alex. Papa, Philip Demuth, William L. 
Snyder and B. W. Jones, members, for the purpose of manufacturing window 
glass. The capital stock was placed at $50,000. This company never erected 
buildings. 

The New York, Pittsburgh & Ohio car shops were formed at Kent in 1861, 
and the buildings completed in 1862. Marvin Kent donated the land on which 
the shops stand. The number of men employed is 194, a decrease of 300 in 
the working force within a few years. The buildings and location are pecul- 
iarly adapted to a great industry like this. The Superintendent is S. B. 
Smith, and shop clerk, J. P. Hall. 

Franklin Lath Machine Company was formed February 25, 1859, with 
William Merrill, J. S. Fisk, M. Kent, C. Peck, Jr., H. Ewell and A. M. Sher- 
man, members. The capital stock was placed at $20,000. This company 
erected buildings on Water Street, and carried on the manufacture of 
machines. Mr. Merrill, the inventor, gained control of this industry and car- 
ried on the business for some years. 

Railway Speed Recorder Company was organized November 2, 1875, with 
the following members: J. B. Miller, William W. Wythe, J.H. Holway, A. L. 
Dunbar and W. H. Stevens. The capital stock was placed at $250,000, and 
the location of factory at Kent, with branch office at Meadville, Penn. W\ H. 
Stevens, President, and A. L. Dunbar, Secretary and Treasurer, 1875-77. 
E. A. Parsons was elected Secretary in 1877. In 1878 A. L. Dunbar was 
elected President and re-elected annually since that time, while Mr. Parsons 
has served as Seci'etary and Treasurer. The Directors since 1877 have been 
William W. Wythe, J. B. Miller (now Superintendent), E. A. Parsons, A. L. Dun- 
bar. J. T. Blair was a Director until 1879, when Charles Miller was elected. 
This industry employs fifty hands. The value of annual product is 
placed at $80,000. Buildings and machinery are valued at $37,000. To 
J. B. Miller is due in great measure the success of this enterprise. He it was 
who perfected the Recorder, and placed before the company's salesmen a most 
useful and reliable invention. 

The Center Flouring Mill Company was incorporated February 13, 1850, 
with Edward Parsons, Robert Clark, Jr., Alvin Olin, James Woodard and 
Thomas Earl, Directors, and 141 stock-holders. The capital subscribed was 
$10,000, increased to $20,000 in 1852. Thomas Earl was General Manager, 
and under this management the industry was transferred to Dr. Earl's son, 
who rented it to various parties. The buildings were used for milling pur- 
poses until their destruction in the winter of 1884. 

The Peerless Roller Mills were established by C. A. and S. T. Williams in 

24 



450 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

1879. In this year a brick building was erected and machinery placed therein 
at a cost of about $-40,000. In 1882 an addition was made to the mills at a 
cost of $5,000. There are sixteen sets of rollers used in this mill, with a 
capacity of 200 barrels per day. The number employed in all departments of 
this industry averages twenty-live. Their shipping business is confined to the 
Eastern States. 

The Kent Mills, now operated by George Barnett, give employment to 
three men. Machinery for grinding new corn, chopping and flour manufact- 
ure has been introduced. 

T. G. Parson's planing-mill was established in 1866 by Porter Hall and 
Ed. A. Parsons, in what was known as the Old Mill. About seven years ago 
the old building was moved to the present site, and a new building erected. 
This industry gives employment to eight men. 

Franklin Steam Saw-mill is now operated by J. S. Sweet and M. M. Smith, 
and was built in 1884. This firm deals largely in all kinds of hardwood lum^ 
ber, sash, doors and blinds, etc. 

Kent Carriage Works are operated by H. George & Bros. 

Kent National Bank, successor to the Franklin Bank, of Portage County 
(founded by Zenas Kent), was chartered in 1864. This charter was renewed 
August 31, 1884, to continue until 1904. Marvin Kent is President, W. S. 
Kent, Vice-President; Charles K. Clapp, Cashier, and W. H. C. Parkhill, 
Clerk. The capital is $100,000, and surplus, $20,000. 

Kent Savings and Loan Association was organized July 23, 1873, with 
Charles H. Kent, H. Y. Bradley, Theo. C. Bradley, Byron B. DePeyster, 
John Thompson, Henry Magan and David L. Rockwell, members. This com- 
pany ceased business. 

City Bank. This Banking Company was organized with D. L. Rockwell, 
President, and M. G. Garrison, Cashier. The capital is $50,000. 

The Continental Hotel, in the City Bank Block, is the leading hostelry of 
the village. It is well conducted by Capt. Crane and Mr. Lewis. 

The new Collins House, opposite the New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Rail- 
road depot, is managed by Capt. Ezra Fowler. 

The New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio restaurant is one of the leading 
houses of that class in Ohio. 

In early days the pioneers devoted themselves to the task of building up 
a town on the Cuyahoga, with remarkable energy. Not, however, until the 
various enterprises were taken hold of by Marvin Kent, did the theories of 
progress put forward by the old settlers assume practical shape. In 1848-49 
many of those great industries which make the town their home were con- 
ceived, and shortly after those busy hives of manufacturing industry were 
constructed. The master-hand, in those pretentious beginnings of a manufact- 
uring town, was Marvin Kent. A decade later we see him leading in railroad 
building, and succeeding not only in constructing the great road now known 
as the New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Railroad, but also in securing the car 
and machine shops of the road for his town on the Cuyahoga. The great sum 
of money which he dedicated to public enterprise, has been repaid by the 
fact that everything he sees around him— a thousand sons of industry earn- 
ing fair pay, and numerous trains exchanging people and products between 
the East and West — may be considered the result of his enterprise. In ten- 
dering this reasonable tribute to Mr. Kent, the historian takes great pleasure, 
also, in being able to make the statement that the actual operators of great 
manufacturing industries of the village are just employers and enterprising 
citizens. 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 451 

The township, in addition to the Cuyahoga River and some smaller streams, 
contains several beautiful lakes. The two largest are known as the East Twin 
Lake and West Twin Lake, and are places of considerable local resort during 
the warm season, as they afford tine fishing and comfortable camping grounds. 
Pippin Lake is in the northeast, Stewart's Pond to the west of Twin Lakes 
and several smaller ponds or lakes dot the township, but the most noted is 
Brady's I^ake, about one mile and a half east of the village. 

About 1790, according to what is deemed the best authority upon the mat- 
ter, Capt. Samuel Brady, a noted Pennsylvania Indian fighter, who followed 
that profession through all this section of country, performed the feat within 
the bounds of what is now Kent, which for daring, determination and muscu- 
larity, stands unparalleled in the annals of the early times. It appears he and 
a few companions had pursued a marauding party of Indians westward across 
the Cuyahoga, but the red skins being re-enforced by their friends, turned 
upon Brady, who, seeing their superior numbers, advised his companions to 
disperse singly, and every man take care of himself. But the Indians know- 
ing the desperate character of Brady, and anxious to glut a Jong-standing 
revenge upon him for the many severe punishments he had inflicted upon them 
pursued him only. Brady knew every point of importance in this section as 
well as the Indians, and so made for the narrowest part of the Cuyahoga, 
which was and is not far from the upper bridge in Kent. To this spot the 
Captain ran with the speed almost of a deer, for he was a man of herculean 
frame, and as active as a cat. The Indians could have shot him easily, but 
they wished to capture him alive for the purpose of having one of their devil- 
ish orgies around the torturing body of their great enemy, but their inhuman- 
ity over-reached itself. They had no idea of the latent powers of Brady, and 
thought that as he neared the rushing stream at the Narrows he would be com- 
pelled to surrender. They "reckoned without their host," however, for when 
the desperate man came in sight of the river he quickly made up his mind 
what to do. He knew that to be captured was to die a cruel and lingering 
death, and the dark rolling stream that rushed through the narrow gor^e, 
twenty-five feet below the banks, was more welcome to him than the knife and 
faggot of the savage; besides, there was a chance for life and escape. Bv 
the time he had arrived within fifty feet of the river he knew what to do, and 
with a mighty effort and the speed of despair he fairly flew through the air, 
and with a tremendous spring cleared the chasm as clean as an English tho- 
roughbred leaps a ditch. So wonder-stricken and dumbfounded were the sav- 
ages at the boldness and agility of their supposed victim, and so unprepared 
were they for his eluding them, that they stood speechless and actless for a 
moment, but soon realizing that he would escape, sent a volley of rifle-shots 
after him, one of which took effect in his thigh, but did not disable him. 
Not a wretch among the lot had the hardihood to duplicate the feat of the 
gallant Brady, and they had to make their way to the crossing on the regular 
trail, nearly a mile away, by which time the Captain had gained the little lake 
now so appropriately known by his name. The Indians saw him go in that 
direction and still hoped to capture him, but when Brady came to the lake he 
swam under water some distance to the trunk of a tree that had fallen in, 
and clinging to the submerged branches, held his mouth in such position as to 
obtain air. The Indians seeing him enter the water and not reappear, sup- 
posed he was drowned. Two of them walked out upon the very tree to which 
he was clinging, even coming close enough for Brady to ascertain what they 
would say, he understanding the Indian dialect. The joy he experienced 
when he heard them say that he was drowned none will ever know, and when 



452 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

he found them gone, climbed out of the tree and made his way safely home- 
ward. From the evidence of a man who was at this famous spot in 1804, it 
is ascertained that the distance from rock to rock was about twenty-one feet, 
the side upon which ho alighted being about three feet lower than the other. 

The statistics of crops and produce for 1884 deal only with the township 
outside the town of Kent. Such statistics have been carefully compiled from 
most authentic sources. While they show the condition of the township in a 
fair light, they must not be considered a complete review of township values 
or '^productions. Acres under wheat, 1,323, bushels, 15,319; rye, 30 bushels 
from 1 acre; oats, 733 acres, 29,295 bushels; barley, 15 acres, 400 bushels; 
corn, 729 acres, 15,337 bushels; 8 bushels of broom corn; 1,277 acres of 
meadow; 1,964 tons of hay; 259 acres of clover; 348 tons of hay and 51 
bushels of seed; 127 acres of potatoes yielded 15,529 bushels; milk, 45,810 
gallons sold for family use; 73,708 pounds home-made butter; 400 pounds 
factory butter; 70,426 pounds of cheese; 8 pounds of maple sugar and 403 
gallons of syrup from 1,286 tappings; 473 pounds honey from 41 hives; 
20,703 dozensof eggs; 1 acre of vines; 7,115 bushels of apples; 30 of peaches; 
51 of pears; 7,639 pounds of wool; 524 milch cows; 233 dogs; killed 38 
sheep and injured 8; animals which died of disease, 58 hogs, 83 sheep, 22 
cattle and 8 horses; acres cultivated, 6,788; pasture, 2,180; woodland, 1,211; 
waste, 598; total, 10,777 acres. A reference to the history of manufacturing 
industries will convey a good idea of their value. Total population in 1850 
was 1,750, including 753 youth; in 1870, 3,037; in 1880, 4,141, including 
Kent Village, 3,309. Present population estimated, 4,350. 



CHAPTER XXI. 
FREEDOM TOWNSHIP. 



Before the Organization— Charles H. Paine, the First Settler— A Lone 
Pioneer— More Arrivals— First Election— A Thoughtful Veteran — 
Paul Larkcom— A Number of First Things — Churches and Schools- 
Horace Greeley's Uncle— The Army Hunt— Sad Death— Sagacity of a 
Dog— Business and Statistics. 

FREEDOM was the last of the townships to be organized, with the excep- 
tion of one, leaving Garrettsville out of the question, which event occurred 
April 4, 1825, it having been a portion of Hiram Township up to that time, and 
known as Town 4, Range 7, of the Western Reserve. The land for some 
reason had been thought, by those who came at an early day, to be very poor 
— not worth settling on. This bad reputation arose, evidently, from the fact 
that a large swamp existed about the center of the township, and from the 
almost unbroken extent of beech woods. It is now, however, one of the finest 
pieces of land in the county, as drainage has been applied to all the low sec- 
tions. It had been called North Rootstown in honor of the principal propri- 
etor, Ephraim Root. 

In the spring of 1818 Charles H. Paine, commonly called Harry Paine, 
came into the township and settled on Lots 31 and 41. He came from Hiram, 
but originally lived at Painesville, his father being Gen. Paine, for whom that 
town was named. Charles had married the daughter of Elijah Mason, and 



FREEDOM TOWNSHIP. 453 

remained with his father-in-law in Hiram until he could put up a cabin and 
make a clearing on his land in Freedom. From the time he moved to his 
place till 1822, himself and family were the only dwellers within what is now 
this highly cultivated, prosperous and fertile township, and he used to say 
that during those three or four years, when there was not a white person other 
than his own family for miles around, that it took considerable nerve to com- 
bat the sense of loneliness that would irresistibly steal over him. In 1822, 
however, he was rejoiced at the arrival of thirteen persons, all in one body, in 
fact all in one family, for Thomas Johnston and wife had eleven children at 
that time. Johnston was an Irishman, who in coming to this country had 
settled in Pennsylvania, afterward removing to the Reserve. He was a genial 
soul, and could tell a joke with the true Irish flavor. He settled on Lot 32. 

The year 1823 brought in three settlers, Newell Day, Enos Wadsworth and 
Asa Wadsworth. They were from Tyringham, Mass. Enos was a widower, 
with two sons and one daughter. Asa was his oldest son, who was married 
and had two children; he settled on Lot 46, and his father on Lot 47. John 
was the younger son of Enos, and Electa was the daughter. 

In 1824 came in Rufus Ranney, father of Judge R. P. Ranney of the 
Supreme Court, and/J. L. Ranney, and settled on Lot 44; Elijah W. Ranney 
on Lot 44; Myron Barber on Lot 61 ; Phineas Spalding on Lot 51 ; Brigham 
Harmon on Lot 68;"* Daniel Brown on Lot 60; Alexander Johnston on Lot 32; 
Widow Clarissa Wheelock, Amariah Wheelock, and John Wheelock on Lot 48, 
and Ira Chamberlain on Lot 9. 

During the next year came Paul Larkcom, father of A. C. Larkcom, from 
Berkshire County, Mass. Paul Larkcom was one of the old Revolutionary 
soldiers, and had been a member of the Legislature of Massachusetts, Justice 
of the Peace, etc. His name figures in the history of his native State, being 
descended from one of the Larkcoms who fled to this country from the perse- 
cutions of the seventeenth century. His wife was a cousin of Noah Webster, 
the great lexicographer. The wife of his son, A. C, was a second cousin of 
the gallant Commodore Perry. The somewhat famous writer, Lucy Larcom, 
was a member of this same stock of Larkcoms, but that lady dropped the k 
from the original spelling of the name. In this year also came Joshua Finch, 
Jeremiah Colton, Nathaniel Brown, Arvin Brown, John Baldwin, Horace Hop- 
kins, Pardon Sherman, Sylvester Hurlburt, and possibly one or two others, 
now forgotten. The numbers had now so increased that a petition was pre- 
sented to the County Commissioners to grant the erection into a "separate 
township, of Town 4, Range 7, with the name of Freedom." The name 
"Freedom" is supposed to have been suggested by Mrs. Paine, to whom the 
matter was referred in honor of that lady having been the first female to 
enter the township. It is said that she first suggested "Liberty," but as that 
name was too common, it was changed. The usual version is that she was a 
great lover of liberty, and the name naturally came up, but an old settler says 
that she suggested the title in consequence of quite a number of the inhabi- 
tants having left sundry little debts when they came out. 

The result of the first election after the act of creation in the township 
was as follows: Trustees, Charles H. Paine, Alexander Johnston and Asa 
Wadsworth; Clerk, Amariah Wheelock; Treasurer, Phineas Spalding; 
Appraiser, Alexander Johnston; Lister, Benjamin Fenton; Overseers of the 
Poor, Newell Day and Thomas Johnston; Fence Viewers, Asa Wadsworth and 
Charles li. Paine; Constable, Charles B. Miller; Supervisors, Phineas Spald- 
ing, Thomas Johnston and Amariah Wheelock. C. H. Paine, Alexander John- 
ston and Asa Wadsworth were the Judges of Election; Amariah Wheelock and 



454 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

Asa Wadsworth were the Clerks of the same. At a subsequent election Ama- 
riah Wheelock was elected Justice of the Peace. 

In November, 1830, Paul Larkcom began keeping a record of the entry and 
settlement of every one from the time that Paine came in, also putting down 
in^writing in an old book, that he had used as far back as 1809, all first events, 
and it is from that source we obtain the information herein contained. In 
tbat bjjk we find, in addition to those already given, the names of those who 
came in 1827, among whom were Thomas Headlock and W. L. Marcey, A. C. 
and Samuel Larkcom, and others. In 1828 Elihu Paine, Samuel Johnston, 
Garry Clark, Amos Hawley, Ozias Hawley, Isaac Stedman and others. In 1829 
came another Larkcom, Orsamus L. Drake, Chauncey Hitchcock, G. G. Red- 
ding, Myron and Willis Foote and several others. In 1830 came Enoch Drake, 
the Porters, Libeus Manly, two more Hawleys and a number of others. In 
Jane of this year the population was 342, and so rapidly were they coming in 
that in the following November the number had increased to 364. In 1831 
there were eighty-seven families, and a population of 417. In 1835 the num- 
ber of inhabitants had increased to 767, with 148 families. The number of 
births from first settlement to that date was! 130, and the number of deaths 
forty-two. In 1836 population was 841; number of families 164. 

The first habitation was built by Charles H. Paine, during the summer of 
1818, The first death was that of Emeliue Paine (at the age of two and a half 
years), daughter of Charles H. Paine, and who was scalded so badly in October, 
1820, that she died. The first birth in the township was in June, 1823, that of 
Amanda, a daughter to Charles H. Paine; the first male^ildjwas born February 
19, 1826, a son of Daniel Brown, named Charles R.^The first marriage was 
that of Wakeman Sherwood .and Harriet Ranney, in 1825. The bride was a 
daughter of Rufus Ranney. Another wedding occurred about this time, the 
parties being Lester Hall and Celestia Finch, and not far from this date 
occurred the wedding of two of the residents of this township in Shalersville. 
Henry Humphrey and Electa Wadsworth wanted to get married, but as they 
had never witnessed that interestThg ceremony, they did not know how to go 
about it, and were fearful lest they should appear awkward in the presence of 
their friends, so they posted off to Shalersville and were made one. The first 
Justice of the Peace was Amariah Wheelock, who became so in 1825. The 
first militia officers were Captain, John Wheelock; Lieutenant, Daniel Brown; 
Ensign, Alexander Johnston. In 1826 Elijah W. Ranney became the first 
Postmaster. The first frame barn was built by Thomas Johnston on Lot 32, 
and the first frame house was put up by Paul Larkcom in 1826, for Daniel 
W. Strickland, on Lot 46. In 1828 Elihu Paine erected the first saw-mill and 
had plenty of work to do, as the township always has been supplied with an 
abundance of timber. The first cider-mill was put up by John Hitchcock, as 
apples were plentiful from almost the first settlement, Paine having set out 
an orchard in 1819. As early as 1830 Hitchcock made sixty-three barrels of 
cider and sold 500 bushels of apples. In 1830 Orsamus L. Drake erected a 
building on the northeast corner; the same year Loring Hamilton started the 
carpenter and cabinet business. In 1831 Erastus Carter, Jr., and Cyrus Pren- 
tiss opened the first stock of goods in the barn of Enoch Drake, and in 1832 
built a store-room on the northwest corner, put in a stock of goods, but sold 
out afterward to D. W. Strickland. In this year, 1832, Enoch Drake built a 
house on the south corner; Jabez Smith, a blacksmith, set up in business, and 
G. G. Redding built a saw-mill. In 1833 Enoch Drake built house, barn, 
sheds, etc. In this year came Dr. Simeon Birge, who remained till 1838, when 
he removed to Franklin, where he died in 1854. The township remained 



FREEDOM TOWNSHIP. 455 

without a physician till 1840, when Dr. James Webb located, and here 
lived till he died of a cancer, in 1852. In 18B5 there were eight tons of 
cheese manufactured, and 400 tons of hay cut in one locality on the north 
road, which gave evidence at that early day of what could be done in Freedom 
with proper cultivation and management. *In 1836 Orsamus L. Drake erected 
, a large and well appointed house at what is now Drakesburg, for the accom- 
modation of the public, and called it the Freedom House. In 1837 the first 
steam saw-mill was erected at Drakesburg by D, W. Strickland, but it was 
burned to the ground the following year. Several steam-mills were afterward 
erected. In this year James Atwood, from Vermont, commenced the blacksmith 
and wagon repairing business, which grew into a carriage manufactory, doing 
quite an extensive business for the time. 

The first church society in the township was organized February 9, 1828, 
at the house of A. C. Larkcom, by Revs. Joseph Treat and David L. Coe, mem- 
bers of the Presbytery of Portage County, and was composed of the following 
persons: Origen Harmon and wife, Alvin Brown and wife, Headlock Marcey 
and wife, Miss Laura Marcey. Horace Hopkins and wife, Reuben Daniels, 
Mrs. Elizabeth M. Marcey, wife of Thomas Marcey, D. W. Strickland and 
wife, Joshua Finch and wife, Samuel Larkcom and wife, Harvey Hawley and 
wife, and Mrs. Clarissa Wheelock. Sermon was preached by Rev. D. L. Coe. 

D. W. Strickland was elected Clerk, and Origen Harmon, Headlock Marcey and 
Reuben Daniels formed the Standing Committee. Until the erection, in 1835, 
of their first building, a small log-house at the Center, meetings were held at the 
houses of A. C. Larkcom, Rufus Ranney, E. W. Ranney, and in the log-school- 
house at Drakesburg. They afterward erected the present commodious build- 
ing, which is a credit to the township. Rev. Caleb Pitkin was the first settled 
pastor of the church. The present pastor of the church is Rev. P. G. Powell. 

The first Methodist Church was organized by B. O. Plympton and Thomas 
Carr, in 1831, and consisted of nine members: Orsamus L. Drake and wife, 
A. Hawley and wife, Ira Chamberlain and wife, Sarah Sherman, Charles Cran- 
mer and Mary Hawley. The first meetings were held in the barn of Enoch 
Drake, and at the houses of the members, but in 1838 a fine large house of 
worship was erected at Drakesburg. Nearly all the early Methodist ministers 
preached at various times to the little flock. The present pastor is Rev, 
Collier, There is a small chapel of the Disciples of Christ, but there is no 
regular pastor. The first sermon delivered in the township was preached by 
Rev. xilva Day, a Congregational minister. 

The first school was taught in a small frame building at Drakesburg, by 

E. W. Ranney, who died March 3, 1835. Another and earlier school is said 
to have been taught in the northwest part of the township, but the exact time 
and name of teachers are not now known. 

In the following review the present condition of the Freedom Schools is 
given: Revenue in 1884, $3,366.52; expenditures, $2,299; eight school build- 
ings, valued at $7,000; average salaries of teachers, $33 and $25 per month; 
enrollment, 91 boys and 97 girls. 

In the year 1841 there came to the township a somewhat elderly and seedy 
man named Leonard Greeley, who had no visible means or employment, and 
when the fact came to the knowledge of the Overseers of the Poor, Messrs. Simon 
Landfear and Lucius Wood, those two officials ordered the Constable, James 
Francis, Esq., to notify said Greeley that his absence would be more highly 
appreciated than his presence, and to either run him out of the township or 
"run him in" for vagrancy. The Constable chose the former, and Leonard 
Greeley left. 



456 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

In 1818 occuiTed the big hunt, which was participated in by the citizens of 
several townships. This was the Army Hunt, referred to in other chapters. 

Thomas Lloyd, of Hartford, Conn., donated five acres of land at the Cen- 
ter, to be used as a public square and for the erection of public buildings. 

One of the finest mineral springs, with the most delightful water, in the 
State of Ohio is on the road half way between the Center and Drakesburg. 
It is slightly impregnated with iron, sulphur and magnesia, an excellent com- 
bination, and is, doubtless, extremely healthful and beneficial. 

In the southwestern quarter of the township there is an extensive lime- 
stone ridge, from which an excellent quality of lime has been made. Timber 
from the earliest time has been very plentiful, affording good material for the 
manufacture of wooden-ware, rakes, etc. The country is well adapted for 
grazing, and the attention of the farmers is turning considerably in that direc- 
tion. Mflch fruit is raised, particularly apples. There is very little water- 
power in the township, but at one time there were five saw-mills in 
operation. The New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Railroad passes through the 
southeastern corner of the township, touching at Freedom Station, which 
affords an excellent shipping point for the various products. 

During the winter of 1824 an event occurred that threw a gloom over the 
little settlement, consisting at that time of about a dozen families. Enos 
Wadsworth, whose name appears as the fourth person to settle in the town- 
ship, and who was a widower with two sons and a daughter, was a success- 
ful hunter of small game, but had never killed a deer, although he had fre- 
quently hunted for them, upon which fact some of his friends twitted him, 
whereupon he declared he would go out and bring home a deer if he died in 
the attempt. He went out on Saturday, and not returning that evening nor 
the next day, the whole settlement turned out to hunt for him, a large party 
from Nelson also going out during the week, which party, on the ninth day 
after Wadsworth had disappeared, found him lying on his face in the swamp 
with his gun in his hand and some provisions in his pocket, the latter fact 
showing that he had not been lost and starved, as was supposed, but that 
he had either been stricken with apoplexy or died from heart disease. 

Warner Durkee, a noted hunter in the early days, was inclined to consump- 
tion, and occasionally had slight bleeding of bis lungs, but not to such extent 
as to interfere with his work or sport. On one occasion, while out with his 
dog in the woods, he was taken with violent bleeding at the mouth, and it so 
weakened him that he had to lie down, being unable to go any farther. In 
that condition he would have perished had he not, partly in frolic and partly 
in earnest, said to his dog, "Go home and tell them I am bleeding to death." 
The sagacious dog seemed to understand, and ran home at the top of his 
speed. It being then late at night, and all the folks in bed, they got up to 
see what was the matter with the dog, when he ran to the bed of Durkee's son 
and pulled and tugged at the bed clothes. Being driven away he would return, 
and the last time he caught hold of the pants lying on a chair and shook them, 
as much as to say, " Put these on and come with me." The young man being 
struck at the singular actions of his father's dog, got up, put his clothing on, 
following the dog to the woods and brought the suffering man home, where he 
was relieved. 

In 1828 a saw-mill was erected by Elihu Paine. Previous to the building 
of the Methodist Church in Drakesburg a steam saw-mill was constructed in 
1837 by D. W. Strickland, which was destroyed by fire the same year. 

There are two cheese factories in operation, one rake factory, one saw and 
feed-mill near the Station, one saw-mill at Drakesburg, and another in the 



■^V" 





^^^iy^ry^-^i^ 



(^,!:r^r-z:>^^^-^^ 



GARRETTSVILLE TOWNSHIP. 459 

north part of the township; at the Station is one general store kept by A. H. 
Scovill, who is Postmaster; at the Center is one store kept by Lyman Bryant, 
who is Postmaster. 

Physicians. — Dr. J. L. Bevington, near the Center, and Dr. S. L. Sloan at 
the station. 

Township Officers. — Trustees, M. J. Harris, A. A. Thayer, E. P. Thayer; 
Clerk, T. M. Robinson; Treasurer, J. B. Harrison; Assessor, Elbert Kneeland; 
Constables, Clinton Dutter, A. D. Williams; Justices of the Peace, Atwell 
Bryant, Charles Williams; Notary Public, Lyman Bryant. 

Fidelity Circle No. 10, B. U. (H. F.) C. A. No. 98, of Freedom, reorgan- 
ized December 28, 1853, with Johu Wheelock, A. C. Larkcom and Seth 
Hewins, Trustees, was one of the earliest associations in the township. 

Merritt Harmon and Mrs. G. W. Kneeland are the oldest survivors of the 
early settlement of Freedom. 

Freedom furnished lifty-four soldiers, fifteen of whom died in the service 
of their country. 

The statistics of the township for 1884 are as follows: Acres of wheat, 
857, bushels, 9,413; of rye, 8; of oats, 708, giving 18,705 bushels; of corn, 
501, yielding 4,846 bushels; of meadow, 1,854, giving 2,596 tons; of clover, 
202, yielding 264 tons of hay and 68 bushels of seed; of potatoes, 222, yield- 
ing 18,032 bushels; 56,645 pounds of butter; 61,277 pounds of cheese; 12,- 
113 pounds of maple sugar and 4,996 gallons of syrup from 28,535 tappings; 
475 pounds honey from thirty-eight hives; 24,399 dozens of eggs; 346 acres of 
apple orchard gave 7,039 bushels; 72 bushels of peaches and 25 of plums; 
wool, 11,061 pounds; 752 milch cows; 2 stallions; 103 dogs; killed, 6 sheep, 
and injured, 8; animals died of disease, 9 hogs, 237 sheep, 21 cattle and 9 
horses; acres cultivated, 1,436; pasture, 10,437; woodland, 2,580; total, 14,- 
453 acres. Population in 1850 was 996, including 387 youth; in 1870, 781; 
in 1880, 804; in 1884 (estimated) 870. 



CHAPTER XXII. 
GARRETTSVILLE TOWNSHIP. 



Arrival of Col. John Garrett— The First Mill — Slow Growth— The Dual 
Government— Business, Manufacturing, etc.— The Fair— Churches- 
Union Schools— Masonic Bodies— Odd Fellowship- Young Men's Tem- 
perance Council— Good Templars— Statistics. 

aARRETTSVILLE having been carved out of the southwest corner of 
Nelson and the southeast corner of Hiram, its history may be said, until 
a comparatively recent date, to belong to those townships, and therefore many 
facts pertaining to its early settlement will be found recorded in the chapters 
relating to Hiram and Nelson. 

The nucleus around which afterward clustered the village of Garrettsville 
was established by Col. John GaxTett, who arrived from Delaware in Ju^y, 
1804, and made the first settlement. He brought with him a man named 
Dyson, a blacksmith and gun repairer, who was of great use to the surround- 
ing settlements. Shortly after coming Col. Garrett lost a son, who died in 



460 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

September following. In January, 1806, the Colonel himself departed this 
life. He left a widow and four children, the venerable Mrs. Garrett surviving 
her husband for forty years. The children became distinguished citizens in 
various walks of life. Col. Garrett left provision for a lot upon which to 
build a Baptist Church, and a plat of ground for a grave-yard. The year fol- 
lowing his arrival he built a saw and grist-mill, which was one of the greatest 
conveniences the dwellers in the northern section of Portage had afforded 
them, Garrett's Mill being known and patronized by the early settlers for fif- 
teen and twenty miles around. 

For many years there was only slight improvement in the settlement estab- 
lished by Col. Garrett, there being scarcely anything more than thfe mill and 
a few other buildings, no attempt being made to aspire to the proportions of 
a village. In fact, till there was talk of a railroad, and even after its con- 
struction for a time, Garrettsville was simply a Four Corners. After the war, 
however, a boom struck the little village, and it has been steadily growing ever 
since, until now it is the busiest and most progressive town in the county 
in proportion to population. 

In 1864 the village was incorporated, and began to assume some impor- 
tance as a trade center. The people now could elect their own officers and 
conduct their internal affairs as they pleased, but still being under the wing 
of the township organization they were hampered somewhat, so they petitioned 
the County Commissioners in 1874 to set apart their territory, about one mile 
and a half square, as a separate and independent township. Now this request 
being granted on July 6, 1874, and still retaining the privileges as an 
incorporate village, Garrettsville presents the spectacle of what the Greeks 
would have called a duarchy. They have two sets of officers, having an elec- 
tion for each, held at the same time and same voting place, in separate boxes, 
and yet there is no clashing of authority. The officers dovetail, as it were, so 
nicely that, notwithstanding the fact that the territory of the village and the 
territory of the township are co-extensive, yet all moves on harmoniously with 
the duplex arrangement. There is said to be but one other combination of the 
kind in Ohio. There are no Trustees, however, as a Board of Councilmen 
perform their duties, and the same Clerk, Ti'easurer and Assessor serve both 
organizations, yet are elected separately, to fu.]fill the requirements of the law. 

The township was incorporated on petition of ninety-five residents, who 
signed under date of June 8, 1864. The Mayors and Recorders since that 
time are named in the following lists: 

Mayors.— IsK^c Stowell, 1864; C. T. Barton, 1866; M. G. Francis, 1867- 
68; T. Winans, 1869; O. L. Hawley, 1870; C. W. Knapp, 1872; O. S. Fer- 
ris, 1874; James Ashald, 1876; Enos C. Smith, 1878-80; James Norton, 
1882; E. H. Ober, 1884. 

Recorders.— O. A. Taylor,'1864; Edward Knapp, 1866; O. A. Taylor, 1867- 
68; E. Knapp, 1869; Ed. L. Davis, 1870; V. M. Noble, 1872; W. D. Web- 
ster, 1874; W. D. Webster, 1876; W. D. Webster, 1878-80; O. S. Ferris, 
1882; E. L. Davis, 1884. 

The present Councilmen are C. W. Goodsell, James Dunn, O. J. Bates, O. 
Collons, G. D. Smith, A. C. Belden; Solicitor, A. W\ Maxson; Treasurer, J. 
S. Tilden; Marshal, O. F. Hoskins; Justices of the Peace, Charles Thayer and 
H. M. Merwin. The fire bonds for S2,000 (6 per cent), issued in September, 
1884, are outstanding, due in six years. 

The Fire Department was organized in the fall of 1884, when E. S. Hutchi- 
son was elected Chief. The town supplies engine, hose, hook and ladder and 
quarters; the men are all volunteers, the Chief alone being a salaried official. 



GARRETTSVILLE TOWNSHIP. 461 

A Remington fire-engine was purchased in September, 1884, with hook and 
ladder, hose, etc., for $2,000. There are a number of Babcock extinguishers 
belonging to the department, which is the pioneer fire depai'tment of northern 
Portage Coimty. 

During the present year there have been erected over twenty buildings of 
various kinds, and there are located here some of the finest stores in the 
county. The New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Railroad, which passes through 
the village, affords the best shipping facilities, and large quantities of pro- 
duce finds its way to the Eastern markets from this point. In addition to the 
business houses of all kinds there is a rake factory, a factory for the manufact- 
ure of the Success Evaporator, a planing and sash-mill, blind factory, pail 
factory, basket factory, foundry and machine shops, grist-mill, saw-mill and 
carriage factory. 

The First National Bank is in a very flourishing condition, the President 
of which is W. B. McConnell; Cashier, J. S. Tilden; Assistant Cashier, W. B. 
Agler. 

There are four physicians and surgeons, two dentists and three lawyers, 
and a very excellent newspaper, the Garrettsville Journal, edited and conducted 
by C. B. Webb. 

The Highland Union Agricultural Association was organized December 28, 
1859, with William N. Williams, Henry Beecher, Hiram Pierce, E. W. Will- 
iams, W. Chaffee, Jr., S. D. Norton, A. N. Daniels, O. E. Niles, J. L. Hunt 
and Silas Raymond, and in 1884 it held its twenty -fifth annual fair. 
Originally it was held exclusively for the exhibition of stock, farm products 
and women's work, etc., and all races, shows and games were strictly for- 
bidden, but of late years it has dropped all such staid old notions, and has 
entered into the matter precisely like other exhibitions, having its horse-racing, 
snide shows and games of chance, just like the county fair. 

Prior to 1865, at the time of the incorporation of the village, the school 
district was composed of District No. 2, Nelson Township, a district in the 
southeast corner of Hiram and a district in the northeast corner of Freedom; 
but the act of incorporation merged these three districts into one, under con- 
trol of a Board of Education of the village, a vote of the people adopting 
the school law of 1849. May 13, 1867, a vote was taken to authorize the 
Board to levy a tax of 10 mills for school building purposes, and in 1869 a 
good brick building, large enough to accommodate 300 pupils, was completed 
at a cost of $15,000. The success of the above measures was largely due to 
James Ashald, James Dunn, Rev. Isaac Winans, S. ^\ . Fuller, A. A. Barber, 
G. P. Udall, C. O. Foote, Charles Tinker and O. A. Taylor. The school 
opened in the new building in December, 1869, with Will Murdoch as Princi- 
pal, and an average daily attendance of 112; total attendance, 186. In 
1870-71 R. S. Kuhn was Principal, and the average daily attendance was 106; 
total attendance, 199. In 1872-73 James Norton became Principal; aver- 
age attendance of 133; total attendance, 207. In 1874 the Board appointed 
J. Cole and Will Murdoch to prepare a course of study, which was adopted, 
and C. W. Carroll became Principal, regular graded school work being 
adopted. H. L. Peck succeeded Mr. Carroll in 1876, and remained in charge 
till 1882, when John E. Morris took charge, and has successfully conducted 
the school since. Twenty-three pupils completed their course during the first 
two years of Mr. Morris' administration. The average attendance is now 
about 208, and total attendance, 250. In 1880 an elegant brick building was 
erected on the same lot as the other school, its cost being $6,500. The schools 
now have five departments, each department having a supply of books, pict- 



462 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

ures, paintings and other decorations. There is an organ in every room 
except one. A set of philosophical apparatus was added in 1882. A library- 
containing nearly 700 volumes, exclusive of public documents, is a principal 
feature. The library has been formed from two others that existed some years 
ago, the union being due to the efforts of Principal Peck, O. S. Ferris and 
A. J. Smith. The School Board has been the same for three years: A. J. Smith, 
President; James Norton, Clerk; Warren Pierce, Treasurer; C. M. Crane, 
S. W. Fuller and James Dunn. The present Board take active, personal 
interest in all educational affairs, and make it a point to attend all meetings, 
thereby contribu4;ing in large measure to the great success of the schools. The 
corps of teachers for 1884-85 are John E. Morris, Principal; J. J. Jackson, 
Assistant in High School; Anor A. Eckert, Grammar Department; lone S. 
Wolcott, Intermediate Department; Cora Adams, A Primary Department; 
Delia V. Reed, B Primary Department. The present condition of the schools 
is shown in the following statistics: Revenue in 1884, $7,508.29; expenditures, 
$4,642.33; two schoolhouses valued at $20,200; average pay of teachers, $76 
and $37; enrollment, 103 boys and 110 girls. 

Baptist Church. — Col. Garrett, who died in 1806, bequeathed to the Baptist 
Church a lot for meeting-house and cemetery. The organization of this soci- 
ety was due mainly to Mrs. Garrett. The first church was built by Edwin 
Atwood and John Garrett. On June 22, 1881, this old building was blown to 
pieces by twenty-five pounds of gunpowder, after its restoration in the fall of 
1880. The deed was attributed to iDhiskij apologists. The work of building 
a new house of worship was at once entered upon, and on January 3, 1884, the 
present church was dedicated. Its cost was $5,000. The original members 
of this society, formed July 30, 1808, were Mary West, Susan and John 
Rudolph, and Eliza and John Noah. Rev. Thomas G. Jones, of Sharon, pre- 
sided, and named the church at Nelson, Betliesda. The clerks of the chui'ch 
were John Rudolph, 1808 to 1824; William Summer, 1824 to 1832; E. Welsh 
and John Brainerd, 1832 to 1837; A. Servoss, 1837; William Wilson, 1841 to 
1846; Ira Fuller, 1846; William Wilson, 1852; M. F. French, 1861 to 1872; 
C. W. and J. B. Knapp, 1872-74; C. T. Truesdale, 1874-79; and Mrs. E. E. 
Truesdale, 1879-85. In January, 1885, the fii'st bell used by the Baptists here 
was placed in the belfry of the new building. 

The Congregational Church was organized as a Union Church February 21, 
1834, with seventeen members, of whom Mi's. Eunice P. Baker, of Connewango, 
N. Y. , and Mrs. Delia Peffers, of Garrettsville, are still living. Deacon Francis 
Strong and wife; Sarah Maxson; Diana Sprague; Mrs. S. W. Orvis, of Nevin- 
ville, Iowa; Whitmore Hazen, of Washington, D. C, a brother of Gen. Hazen, 
of the Signal Service; J. J. Demarest, Waupaca, Wis.; Deacon Waters and 
wife; Mrs. M. E. Wales; Mrs. A. B. Gardner, of Chagrin Falls, Ohio; Deacon 
Wade White and wife; John D. Hazen and wife, who owned the lot and erected 
the main part of the old church building, were among the original and old 
members. In 1836 the society was reorganized under the Congregational form, 
and has since been conducted as a purely Congregational Church. In May, 
1845, John D. Hazen offered to donate the land and building to the society, on 
condition that they would repair the house, erect a spire, and place therein a 
bell. Mr. Hazen died before the conditions were fulfilled, and his executor, 
Robert Payne, of Cleveland, refused to recognize his action. This resulted in 
a round of litigation, which was favorable to the society. In May, 1847, the 
society was incorporated. The resolutions adopted by this society, in re the 
anti-slavei'v movement, were entirely in consonance with the spirit of the times. 
The organizing ministers were Joseph Treat and Benjamin Fenn. The orig- 



GARRETTSVILLE TOWNSHIP. 463 

inal members were John D. Hazen and wife, Wade White and wife, Vienna 
Norton, Clarissa Eggjleston, Harry White and wife, Wealthy White, Mary 
White, Eunice White and John D. White, Susan Ferry, Polly T. Stevens, 
Eleanor Hindman, Sophia Smith and Hannah Trask. 

Rev. Isaac Winans served this church for a greater number of years than any 
other pastor. Charles B. Webb has served as Clerk since August, 1880, suc- 
ceeding W. S. Wight. The Trustees are J. W. Root, N. W. Leezer, G. D. 
Smith, P. S. Tinan and S. J. Buttles. The membership is 130, and the congre- 
gation numbers about 300. The average Sunday-school attendance is about 125. 
R. H. Ober is Superintendent. The house of worship is the same as existed 
in 1836, and was repaired in 1845. Rev. J. R. Nichols is pastor. 

The Disciples Church was reorganized a few years ago with fifty-two mem- 
bers. The old society built a house of worship on Main Street in 1846, which 
house was sold sixteen or eighteen years ago to Mrs. S. S. Beecher, and is now 
occupied as a dwelling-house by the purchaser. For many years services have 
not been held, but in 1882 the reorganized society purchased a lot and deter- 
mined to erect a house of worship. N. H. Nichols, James Norton, S. O. Wil- 
bur, Frank Poor and James Ashald, Trustees, with Mr. Norton, Clerk, and Mr. 
Ashald, Treasurer. Of the old society there are about ten members here. 

The Methodist Church, Garrettsville, was organized in 1872 with seven 
charter members, and organized under State law February 10, 1873, with M. 
Hashman, R. A. Houghton, T. Barton, Albert Gage, William Fox, H. E. 
Spencer, Joseph C. Ensign and James R. Thorne, Trustees. James Greer was 
President, and E. M. Sanderson Secretary of the meeting. 

The pastors since Garrettsville was created an appointment in September, 

1872, were John Brown, 1872; W. H. Haskell, 1874; H. Webb, 1875; H. N. 
Steadman, 1876; A. S. Morrison, April 13, 1879; Eugene P. Edmonds, 1879; 
W. H. Rider, 1880; H. B. Edwards, 1881, and Charles Ed. Locke, October, 
1883. The record of official members gives the following names: A. D. Hos- 
kin, H. L. Peck, E. M. Sanderson, S. A. Udall, R. T. Ellenwood, William 
Fox, N. Steele, H. E. Spencer, G. B. Graham, W. C. Dunn, J. R. Thorn, C. 
V. Francis, E. B. Lewis, J. E. Morris and Oliver Bow. The membership is 
about 124. The present church building was erected in 1872, at a cost of 
$10,000. The building is brick, well located, with spire 100 feet high. The 
bell weighs 1,000 pounds. 

Garrettsville Lodge, No. 246, A. F. & A. M. — This lodge was chartered 
October 19, 1853, and was organized January 10, 1854. The charter was 
granted by L. V. Bierce, M. W. G. M. ; W. B. Dodd, R. W. D. G. M.; Mat- 
thew Gaston, R. W. S. G. W. ; W. D. Brock, R. W. J. G. W., and the follow- 
ing were the charter officers and members: Reuben Daniels, W. M. ; Orin 
Smith, S. W.; David B. Lee, J. W., and Joshua Finch, John A. Messenger, 
Charles Slayton, Martin McClinton, James Heath, William Messenger, Ran- 
som Munn, John Udall, W. Hopkins and I. Hubbard. The lodge has a pres- 
ent membership of 124. 

December 19, 1860, the hall in which the communications were held was 
destroyed by fire, and all the lodge fixtures, library, book of records, etc., were 
lost. In 1872 the fine brick building, in the upper portion of which is located 
the lodge rooms, was erected by the fraternity, and was dedicated January 15, 

1873, the services being conducted by Right Worshipful Grand Master Wood- 
ward. The lamented President Garfield was Chaplain of the lodge in 1869. 

Silver Creek Chapter, No. 144, R. A. M.— This Chapter was constituted and 
established May 3, 1879, and worked under dispensation till October 17 of the 
same year, when a charter was granted by James W. Underbill, Grand High 



464 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

Priest of Ohio. The charter officers and members were Alonzo H. Tidball, 
H. P.; Ezra B. Hopkins, K. ; AValdo Webster, S., and Edmund Knapp, 
Stephen G. Warren, Gordon F. Mattison, Charles D. Hosmer, Ira T. Wilder, 
Titus B. Hopkins, Leroy H. Payne. The membership is sixty- four. There 
are also in Garrettsville twenty-one Knights Templar, but no Commandery. 

Odd Fellowship. — Portage Lodge, No. 456, I. O. O. F. — This lodge was 
instituted July 25, 1870, by H. Y. Beebe, Grand Master." The charter officers 
and members were Wolcott Chaffee, Jr., N. G.; E. C. Farley, V. G.; C. W. 
Knapp, R. S. ; J. E. Snow, P. S.; L. N. Moses, T. ; T. M. Hobart and E. M. 
Talcott. After the first night's work following the institution of the lodge 
there were fourteen members, and the work has gone on steadily ever since, 
until at the present time there is a membership of 137. The lodge has cleared 
off its original debt, and now owns a very fine hall handsomely decorated and 
furnished in the third floor of the old Bank Building, where the order is doing 
good work, its members being among the most influential and respected citizens of 
Garrettsville. The present officers are C. H. Foster, N. G. ; N. W. Leezer, V. G. ; 
Wolcott Chaffee, Secretary; E. L. Davis, Treasurer; Guy Warren, R. S. to N. 
G.; C. H. Crafts, L. S. to N. G.; S. W. Fuller. R. S. to V. G.; C. B. Webb, 
L. S. to V. G.; E. Burke, Warden; E. S. Bishop, Conductor; J. C. Hoffman, 
R. S. S. ; B. F. Bush, L. S. S. : Robert Durney, I. G. ; L. W. Ahrens, O. G. 

Young Men's Temperance Council. — This organization was formed March 
17, 1882, and, as its name implies, is a temperance society, but on a new plan. 
It had its origin among the young men of Garrettsville, and its ritual was 
written by E. L. Sanderson, E. B. Lewis and N. W. Leezer. It is a secret 
order consisting of three degrees, which are concise and free from the 
defects of some corresponding societies. The members are not only pledged 
to abstain from all intoxicating drinks, but also from entering a place 
where liquors are sold, thereby showing by their habits discouragement to the 
traffic. The lodge affords an attractive place of resort, furnished with good 
reading matter, and thus handicaps the saloons and their temptations. The 
original members forming the organization were E. L. Sanderson, B. G. Dan- 
iels, J. D. Cole, N. W. Leezer, G. J. Dunn, E. B. Lewis, A. C. Daniels, W. 

B. Pike, E. E. Maltby, F. W. Brown, T. W. Esty, W. S. White, H. G. Koons 
and R. H. Over. 

Good Templars. — Garrettsville Lodge, No. 199, I. O. G. T., was instituted 
in 1883, and has passed through the varied experiences incident to such a 
society. Its officers for the ensuing term are as follows: W. C. T. , John 
McGill; W. V. T., Mrs. W. B. Pike; P. W. C. T., H. A. Truesdale; W. R. S., 
Hattie E. W^hite; W\F. S., Will Hoskin; W. T., L. A. Tidball; W. C, Mrs. 
J. B. Knapp; W. M., Wilber Winfield; G., E. B. Lewis; S., David Goss; W. 
A. S., Mrs. H. A. Truesdale. 

Young Men's Temperance Council. — The members of the Young Men's 
Temperance Council celebrated their third anniversary with appropriate public 
exercises at Buckeye Hall. The Council is in good working condition, and 
since its organization has been the means of doing much good. 

The Western Reserve Sugar Makers' Convention was held January 21 
and 22, 1885, when the following named officers were elected: President, 
P. C. Nichols; First Vice-President, E. P. Clark, of Windham; Second Vice- 
President, S. L. Love, of W^arren; Recording Secretary, F. D. Snow, of 
Windham; Corresponding Secretary, B. H. Udall, of Garrettsville; Treasurer, 

C. F. Cowdrey, of Hiram. 

Success Evaporator Works. — The Garrettsville Manufacturing Company 
was organized March 20, 1872, with I. L. Robe, E. C. Smith, W^arren Bishop, 



GARRETTSVILLE TOWNSHIP. 465 

E. B. Lee and James Norton. The capital stock was $30,000. This industry 
was devoted to the manufacture of nuts and bolts and other hardware. This 
collapsed a few years later, and the buildings are now used by Wilcox & Son, 
manufacturers of sugar makers' sundries. Wilcox & Son have just invented 
and perfected a new syrup tester, also a pan connection which is simple, dur- 
able and reliable every time. It has been pronounced by all who have seen it 
to be the most perfect connection on the market. By its use interchangeable 
pans can be easily and successfully used to get rid of the silica deposit. 

Garrettsville Table Manufacturing Company was established for the manu- 
facture of tables in 1880-81 by John Gottchalk, and conducted by him until 
the buildings were destroyed by a boiler explosion three years ago. Together 
with the destruction of buildings, two men lost their lives. The works were 
rebuilt and operated for some time, when James Davidson purchased them. 
Recently the buildings and machinery were leased by E. H. Ober from David- 
son & Hoskin, and he now conducts a fair business. This industry employs 
about six men. 

Fuller & Hatch, saw and planing-mill, was established twenty-eight years 
ago by John F. Taylor and Daniel EUinwood, Jr., as a saw-mill. They con- 
ducted it for a number of years until purchased by Getter & Letterbrant, who 
operated it for some time. In 1861 S. W. Fuller purchased an interest, and 
in conjunction with his partners has operated the saw-mill since that year. 
The planing-mill machinery was introduced in 1863-64. The capacity of the 
saw-mill is about 10,000 feet per day. The value of buildings and machinery 
of both industries is $6,000. The number of men generally employed is eight. 
This company, in addition to local work, has a large shipping trade. The feed 
store and warehouse at the depot is operated by this firm; lime, salt, seed 
and fertilizers are also dealt in extensively. 

Udall & Hoskin' s pail factory was built by Charles Tinker about twenty 
years ago for a machine shop, and operated as such until 1868, when Udall & 
Co. purchased the buildings and established the pail factory. In 1882 A. D. 
Hoskins purchased the interests of Tinan and Sanderson and now is partner of 
Mr. Udall. The works turn out about 50,000 pails, well-buckets, butter-tubs 
and paint-pails annually, and give employment to twelve men. Water-power 
was used exclusively up to February, 1885, when steam-power was added. 
The value of buildings and machinery is $10,000. 

W. L. &. B. H. Udall's foundry was established thirteen years ago by J. E. 
Udall & Gregory. Saw-mill and sewing machine machinery, castings and 
repairs form the leading work. Buildiugs and machinery are valued at $5,000. 
This industry gives employment to thirteen men from October to April, and 
about eight men during the summer season. 

Graham's sash, door and blind factory was established by G. B. Graham 
in the old woolen-mill buildings, and operated by him down to the present 
time. This factory gives employment to a large number of hands. 

Garrettsville Grist-mill was built by Edwin Atwood and Leman Ferry in 
1837, and finished in the fall of that year. They operated it jointly until 
Mr. Ferry sold out his interest. Mr. Atwood continued to hold his inter- 
est in the mill until the beginning of 1884, when it was sold by his 
guardians to former past owners, the Vanderslices. The property was leased 
by Goodhue & Nelson in August, 1884. The capacity is thirty barrels of flour 
and from 150 to 200 bushels chop- feed per day. The mill employs four men 
throughout the year. The value of machinery and buildings is about $9,000. 

W. L. Wilcox, wagon repairer and horse-shoer, established the works in 
1882. The building, land, plant and tools are valued at about $2,700. This 
industry gives employment to two men. 



466 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

O. Collins & Co., sHw-mill, rake manufacturers and lumber dealers, estab- 
lished their business seven years ago. At that time O. Collins & W. L. XJdall 
were the owners. The buildings were destroyed by fire on May 1, two years 
after, and the same year the present buildings and machinery were put up. 
The company gives employment to about twenty hands. 

Garrettsville carriage shops were established in 1849. The shops are now 
conducted by Charles O. Foote. 

Garrettsville Savings and Loan Association was organized January 30, 
1869, with W. C. Thrasher, H. Mills, Charles Tinker, T. Robe, W. R. Knowl- 
ton, James Dunn, C. W. Goodsell, • James Norton, S. S. Beecher, John H. 
Beeeher, L. K. Raymond, H. C. Tilden, L. Ferry, Sr., L. D. Brown and O. A. 
Taylor. This company ceased business in 1877. 

First National Bank. — The Directors of this banking company are W. B. 
McConnell, E. C. Smith, and G. E. Crane. J. S. Tilden is Cashier. The 
resources as published December 20, 1884, are $237,350.42. 

The Cannon House, on East State, is the only hotel in the town, and the 
successor, so to speak, of the old hotel which was destroyed by fire. This build- 
ing was the residence of Dr. Manly, and after the Doctor's death was opened 
as a hotel by Mrs. Manly. Thomas Seymour operated it subsequently as the 
Washington Hotel; then in 1878 E. D. Wadsworth bought the house, and 
conducted it until March, 1879, when S. E. Wadsworth took possession, named 
the hotel the Cannon House in conjunction with the former Cannon House just 
south. This hotel is well managed and is certainly one of the most pleasant 
hostelries in the county. 

The statistics for 1884 are as follows: acres of wheat, 16, bushels, 98; oats, 
11 acres, bushels, 470; corn, 7 acres, bushels, 20; meadow, 52 acres, hay, 95 
tons; potatoes, 10 acres; milk sold for family use, 5,300 gallons; maple sugar, 
100 pounds from 500 trees; honey, 20 pounds from 5 hives; orchards, 3 acres; 
milch cows, 17; one stallion; 88 dogs; acres cultivated, 27; in pasture, 140; 
woodland, 35; waste, 62; total, 264 acres. This little township is occupied 
mainlv by the village of Garrettsville. Population in 1870, 658; in 1880, 
969; in 1884 (estimated) 1,100. 



CHAPTER XXIII. 
HIRAM TOWNSHIP. 

Who WAS the First Settler?— Honey and Williams— Mason and Tilden— 
Other Permanent Settlers — The Youngs, Benjamin Hinckley and 
Samuel Udall — Many First Events— Churches and Schools— Hiram 
College— President James A. Garfield— Organization and Origin of 
Name— The Mormons— Tarring and Feathering Smith and Rigdon— 
Rich Land, Beautiful Location and Business. 

HIRAM, the third township settled in the county, and known with its 
present limits as Town 5, Range 7, was originally the property of Col. 
Daniel Tilden, Daniel Green, Joseph Metcalf, Levi Case, John Fitch, Joseph 
Burnham and Joseph Perkins, all of Connecticut. Hiram then comprised the 
territory now known as Mantua, Shalersville, Freedom, Windham and Nelson. 
The early history of Hiram has been kept by several persons in the township, 
who have made special efforts in ascertaining the correct facts of those primi- 



^y 



X. 





-Ji3r^ 





HIRAM TOWNSHIP. 469 

five times, and among them Mr. Alva TJdall has been particularly active and 
careful in collecting these matters, and to him the writer is indebted for the 
most of the information contained in this chapter. 

There is some doubt respecting the first settler in Hiram. By some it is 
thought that Abraham S. Honey, who made the first settlement in Mantua, was 
the man, and that he came as early as 1799, but that cannot be, for he, with 
his brother-in-law, Rufus Edwards, settled in Mantua, or at least made some 
improvements there, in the fall of 1798. Mr. John Harmon, one of the first 
settlers in Mantua, was under the impression that a man named William W. 
Williams came in the spring of 1799, built a cabin and made a clearing, but 
that he soon after left and settled in Cuyahoga County, where, in 1800, he 
built the first mill in that county. The truth, possibly, of this matter is, that 
when Honey left Mantua, which he did about 1802, he stopped during the 
spring or summer in Hiram, made a small clearing and built a cabin, 
but getting tired of the country, went away in the fall to Cuyahoga, where it 
is known that he lived several years. 

In 1802 Elijah Mason, Elisha Hutchinson and Mason Tildeu came to the 
township and located their lands. Mason, who was from Lebanon, Conn. , 
selected the west half of Lot 23; Tilden, also from Connecticut, selected Lot 
22, and Hutchinson, who was from Herkimer County, N. Y., selected a portion 
of Lot 23. They then returned to their Eastern homes. A permanent settler, 
but whose actual residence was only about one year or less, came in during 
this spring also. He was John Flemings, who began improvements on the 
southeast corner of the west half of Lot 33. He girdled the timber on sixteen 
acres and built a cabin, also put out a crop of corn and potatoes, which was 
the first crop raised in the township. 

In the spring of 1803 Mason with his two sons, Roswell M. and Peleg S., 
lads of seventeen and nineteen, and Tilden and Hutchinson, came out, leaving 
their families at home, and made improvements on their lands, Mason clearing 
about 22 acres and putting it out in wheat, and building a cabin. Hutchinson 
also cleared twenty acres and built a cabin; Tilden, in like manner, clearing 
and building. Shortly after they came they discovered and named Silver 
Creek. They all then went back and were preparing to come out permanently 
the next spring, but the two sons of Mason refusing to again go into the wilds 
of the Reserve, the father was compelled to change his plans, and he purchased 
a farm in Vermont. This action of Mason induced the others to forego for the 
time emigrating Westward. Three of their hired men, however, were pleased 
with the country and concluded to settle here. They were Richard Redden, 
Jacob Wirt and Samuel Wirt, from Pennsylvania. Flemings, also becoming 
discouraged, concluded to leave when he found that Mason, Hutchinson and . 
Tilden were not coming, and he sold his place to Redden, the Wirts at the 
same time settling on the east half of Lot 38. Redden sent for his father and 
family, which was the first white family to winter in the township. Mason 
came in the summer of this year, 1804, and harvested his wheat, which was 
the first in the township, turning out well. His two companions disposed 
of their effects in Ohio as well as they could, and left the country. 

For several years after these first few settlers named came in but little pro- 
gress was made. In the fall of 1804 William Fenton began improvements on the 
east half of the west half of Lot 38, and Cornelius Baker on the west half of the 
same. In this year, also, came Col. John Garrett and Abraham Dyson, a black- 
smith, but fuller mention is made of these two settlers in the history of Nelson 
Township. 

In 1806 Roswell M. Mason had a change of heart in regard to the Western 

25 



470 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

country, and came from Vermont to settle on Lot 32, which had been given 
him by his father. His father owned considerable land here and Roswell was 
made agent for it, but instead of settling down to the life of a farmer, hired 
others to improve the land, and studied law. 

The most of the settlers, up to about 1807, were from Pennsylvania, and 
were poor, but generous and hospitable. They were usually squatters, and 
put such improvements on their land, as frequently, when the owner came 
around, to sell enough of it to pay for the whole and still retain a fair sized 
farm. From about 1809, however, the New England element largely predom- 
inated, but even at this date the number of inhabitants was only twenty. 
Thomas Johnson, an Irishman, came in this year. He had lived in Pennsyl- 
vania, but moved from Trumbull County to this township. Simon Babcock, 
of Connecticut, came in the fall of 1809, and settled on Lot 22. 

In 1810 Pasley Hughes with a yoke of oxen came in from Vermont, and 
settled on the property improved in 1803 by Elijah Mason, Hughes having 
purchased it before leaving his native State. In the fall of the same year 
Ephraim Hackett, son-in-law of Hughes, came in with his family and settled 
on the west part of the east half of Lot 22. The population was now about 
thirty. In June, Orrin Pitkin and wife came in and settled where Honey had 
improved on Lot 32, in 1802. 

In 1811, on the 16th day of August, George Young, James Young and 
Seth Cole, each with large families, came from Sterling, Conn. James Young, 
who was a tailor, settled on the west half of Lot 18; George, on the east half 
of the same lot, and the west part of Lot 25, and Cole bought the improve- 
ments on Lot 38. On the 2d of October Elisha Hutchinson, having changed 
his mind, also, in regard to the West, arrived with his family and settled upon 
the spot which he had cleared in 1803, the brush having been cleared off by 
Isaac Mills, of Nelson, whom he had employed. There were at this time, the 
fall of 1811, eleven families, embracing fifty-eight persons, in the township. 

In 1812 Thomas F. Young came with his family from Windham, Conn., 
and settled at the Center. He was the father of Clinton and Thomas Young, 
who still reside on the old place. In September, 1813, Benjamin Hinckley 
and family came in from Connecticut and settled on the west part of the west 
half of Lot 38, and purchased considerable land. 

In 1816 Symonds and Jason Ryder, with their father, mother and sisters 
arrived and settled on land previously located by Symonds. Aruna Tilden 
also came in this year, bringing his family, which included his brother-in-law, 
John Jennings, and settled on the west half of Lot 37. In the winter follow- 
ing Elijah Mason, fulfilling his intention of thirteen years before, brought 
his family and settled on the west half of Lot 43. 

In 1817 Gersham Judson came from Mantua and settled on Lot 31, but he 
afterward sold to Paul Pitkin and moved away. Stephen B. Pulsif er and family 
settled on Lot 19, and Ira Herrick with his father and mother began on the 
east end of Lot 33. Daniel Tilden, Benjamin Tilden, John Tilden and Polly 
Tilden also came in the spring. In October Ebenezer Pinney settled on Lot 
31, which afterward passed to Samuel Udall, and from him to others. These 
arrivals ran the population up to 120. 

In 1818, early in January, Daniel Hampton came from Trumbull County 
and settled on the west part of the east half of Lot 33, and about the 23d of 
the same month Samuel Udall, John Johnson, Martin Miller, Charles Loomis 
and Thomas Cowen left Pomfret and Hartford, Vt., with their families, which 
were all large, bound for Hiram. Udall had four yoke of oxen, three horses 
and a cow. The rest were also supplied well with oxen and horses. The 



HIRAM TOWNSHIP. 471 

weather was cold, the snow was deep, and they were six weeks on the road. 
Arriving in Hiram March 4, 1818, Udall settled on the west halves of Lots 24 
and 27, Johnson on the west ends of Lots 22 and 39, Miller on the west half 
of Lot 36, Loomis on the middle part of Lot 39, and Cowen moved into a cabin 
owned by Richard Kedden. In the following summer came Gideon Cbapin, 
Lemuel Herrick, Miles T. Norton, Joel Button, Elisha Taylor, Horace A. 
Loomis, Curtis Eggleston, Truman Brace, Capt. William Harris and Charles 
H. Paine, the last-named moving in the fall to Freedom, and becoming the 
first settler of that township. 

In March, 1819, John M. Tilden with his family came in and settled on 
the west part of the east half of Lot 25, and in June came Paul Pitkin. In 
1821 Col. Daniel Tilden, one of the original proprietors of the township, came 
in and lived in seclusion till 1S35, in which year he died at the age of 
ninety. He had been a man of great prominence in his native State, but the 
party in politics opposed to him so wronged him that he became soured and 
sought obscurity in the wilds of the West. About this time came Deacon John 
Rudolph, originally from Shenandoah County, Va., but who had resided in 
Nelson from 1806. One of his sons, Zeb Rudolph, married a daughter of 
Elijah Mason, and their daughter is the widow of the lamented President 
Garfield, who fell by the hand of the cowardly assassin, Guiteau. The popu- 
lation in 1820 was about 225. 

In the fall of 1807 Gersham Judson, a widower, residing in Mantua, was 
married to Miss Sarah Redden, and from that time there was not another 
wedding- in the township till 1817, when Charles H. Paine married a daughter 
of Elijah Mason, Parthenia Mason, who was Mrs. Garfield's aunt. 

The first birth was that of Edwin Babcoek, son of Simeon Babcock, on 
March 3, 1811. The second was that of John Fenton on the 11th day of the 
same month, the mother of the child dying at the same time; this was the 
first death in the township. 

The first blacksmith to open business was Abraham Dyson, who came in 
1804. The first mill in the township was built by Lemuel Punderson at the 
Rapids, in 1807, for Squire Law, of Connecticut, but a flood came in the fall 
and carried it off. In 1808 the dam was rebuilt and a saw-mill put in opera- 
tion. Several others followed. Elisha Taylor, a tanner, currier and shoe- 
maker came in 1818 and commenced business. In 1816 the first postoffice was 
opened at the Center, and Thomas F. Young was appointed Postmaster, an 
office which he held for thirty-six years, till the day of his death in November, 
1852. The first stock of goods and first store opened was in 1820, by Deacon 
John D. Hazen. The first frame dwelling-house was erected in 1819 by Jesse 
Bruce. It stood on the hill a few rods east of Alva Udall's barn on Lot 27. 
A few years previous to this Thomas Johnson and Elisha Hutchinson had 
erected frame barns, which were the first frame buildings in the township. A 
distillery was erected about 1820, as Hiram had to keep pace with Mantua and 
Nelson, each of which had two of these institutions in operation. The first road 
in the north part of the county was from Warren to Cleveland, built in 1800, 
and ran through the center of Hiram. James Young was the first tailor, and 
Seth Cole the first cooper to settle in the township; they came in 1811. 
The first military company was organized by the election of Symonds Ryder, 
Captain; Orrin Hutchinson, Lieutenant; Silas Raymond, Ensign; John Til- 
den, Orderly Sergeant; George Udall, Drummer; John M. Tilden, Fifer. 
Thomas F. Young was elected a Justice of the Peace in 1814, being the first 
Justice in the Township; he served three terms. 

Occasional sermons were delivered from a very early day, both by the Method- 



472 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

ists and Congregationalists or Presbyterians and among that number wereEev. 
Caleb Pitkin, Rev. Shadrach Bostwick and Rev. R. R. Roberts, vs^ho preached 
all over the Reserve, and in fact all over northern Ohio, but the Baptist 
denomination seems to have taken the lead up to along about the year 1830. 
They had a small church at the Rapids, and the Congregationalists had also a 
small church. In 1835 the Disciples of Christ organized a church at the south 
road schoolhouse, w^hich consisted of thirteen members. This congregation 
grew rapidly, and in 1844 they erected a church building, which about 1856 
was burned, vphen the present tasteful and commodious edifice was erected; 
the membership now runs into the hundreds. In 1844 the Methodists 
built a neat frame church just north of the Corners at the Center, but the 
society not being very prosperous, it was deemed advisable to dispose of the 
building and appropriate the proceeds otherwise. 

In the year 1813 Benjamin Hinckley arrived, and on December 13 he com- 
menced teaching school in a log-house that had been put up in the fall. He 
taught ten weeks ending February 22, 1814, and had twenty scholars. There 
were seven Youngs, three Johnsons, two Hutchinsons, two Dysons, two Hughes, 
two Hinckleys, a Hampton and a Judson. From about this time schools were 
maintained in the township, but there was but one school district. In 1816 
two districts were formed, each having its log-schoolhouse, and were known 
as the Center and South Districts respectively. During the year 1820 a frame 
schoolhouse was begun in the South District, and after much effort it was com- 
pleted. In the Center District some time afterward, a frame building was 
commenced for a schoolhouse, and to have a Masonic hall above, but it was 
never finished. 

The Western Reserve Eclectic Institute, formerly so well and favorably 
known throughout northern Ohio, was the parent of Hiram College. Previous 
to 1850 there had been a growing feeling among the Disciples of the West- 
ern Reserve that they needed an educational institution located somewhere in 
northern Ohio. Delegates from the prominent churches of the Disciples met 
to consider the matter. They were unanimous in the opinion that a school 
should be established, and after several meetings decided, November 7, 1849, 
to locate it at Hiram. Its charter was granted March 1, 1850. The same 
summer, near, but a little south of the crest of the water-shed dividing the 
waters of the lake from those of the Ohio, in the middle of an eight-acre 
enclosure that has since become one of the most beautiful campuses in the 
State, as it is by nature one of the most commanding, a substantial and com- 
modious brick building, three stories high, with a front of eighty-four feet, 
and a depth of sixty-four feet, was erected. 

In this building, November 27, 1850, the new school went into operation, 
under the name of the "Western Reserve Eclectic Institute," the name having 
been suggested by Isaac Errett, then pastor of the Church of the Disciples in 
Warren. 

The work done was substantially that of an academic school of high grade. 
The aims of the school may be stated as follows: 1. To provide a sound scien- 
tific and literary education. 2. To temper and sweeten such education with 
moral and scriptural knowledge. 

The popularity of the Institute was great from the beginning, and the 
annual attendance rose as high as five hundred. 

February 20, 1867, the Board decided to clothe the school with collegiate 
powers and responsibilities. As Hiram had become widely and favorably 
known as the seat of the Institute, the name now chosen was "Hiram College." 
The change in the name and rank of the institution did not essentially change 
its aims and spirit. 



HIRAM TOAVNSHIP. 478 

A. S. Hayden, a cultivated and well-known minister of the Disciples, was 
the first Principal. For seven years he served in this capacity with great 
acceptance. Associated with him much of the time were Thomas Munnell. 
Norman Dunshee and Almeda Booth. 

James A. Garfield, who had taught under Mr. Hayden's administration, 
succeeded to the Principalship. The Institute, which had been prosperous 
under Mr. Hayden's administration, now reached a still higher degree of pros- 
perity. Mr. Garfield was Principal from 1857 to 1861, and won a wide popu- 
larity as a teacher and manager, and as a lecturer on general and scientific 
topics. His associates were Norman Dunshee, Harvey W. Everest, J. H. 
Rhodes, Almeda Booth, J. M. Atwater and B. A. Hinsdale. 

From 1861 to 1867 there were frequent changes in the head of the school. 
H. W. Everest, C. W. Heywood, A. J. Thomson and J. M. Atwater served for 
brief periods, the name of James A. Garfield as Advising Principal appearing 
much of the time. This period was in some particulars Hiram's darkest day. 
Within this period came the Civil war, and many of Hiram's best workers 
were called to the battlefield. 

As a chartered college Hiram began its work August 31, 1867. Dr. Silas 
E. Shepai-d was its first President. He was succeeded by Prof. J. M. Atwater, 
who in 1871 was succeeded by Prof. B. A. Hinsdale. Prof. Hinsdale's admin- 
istration continued until June, 1882, when Vice-President Dean became Act- 
ing President. At the beginning of the collegiate year 1883-84 the Board of 
Trustees were called upon to choose some one to fill the vacancy caused by the 
resignation of President Hinsdale. After due deliberation their choice fell 
upon the present incumbent. President G. H. Laugh lin. President Laugh lin 
came from Oskaloosa College, Iowa, with which institiition he had been for 
nine years connected and of which he was the President. The experience of 
the year seems to have shown the wisdom of the choice. He has entered upon 
and pursued his labors like one schooled to the position, has proved himself a 
thorough teacher, and has won in a high degree the confidence and esteem of all. 

Hiram College is affiliated with the Ohio College Association, in accordance 
with the rules of which association the courses of study are arranged. The 
special departments comprise the Biblical, musical, normal and art. The 
degrees conferred are B. A., B. P., M. A. and M. P. On May 7, 1883, a Bible 
Chair was established. 

The first building continues in good repair. Six years ago the Ladies' 
Hall was erected. The tabernacle and the boys' dormitory complete the list of 
buildings, each one is well equipped, and admirably adapted to its purpose. 

There are five well-selected libraries, containing more than 3,000 volumes. 
These libraries are being constantly enlarged with the best publications of the 
day. One of the libraries belongs to the college; the others to the Olive 
Branch, Delphic and Hesperian Societies, and the Y. M. C. A., respectively. 

The college buildings, campus, libraries, apparatus, cabinet and furniture 
are worth $40,000; the productive endowment is estimated at $50,000; 
bequests, in the form of wills, are estimated at $100,000. 

In the following summary of the history of education in this township 
since 1850, the statistics of common schools and literary societies are given. 

Enrollment in 1884, nine boys and eighty-three girls; revenue, $3,824.68; 
expenditures, $1,932.38; seven schoolhouses valued at $4,200; average monthly 
pay of teachers, $26. 

The Olive Branch Society, a ladies' organization, was the first literary asso- 
ciation of ladies of the college, being founded in 1853. The Hesperian Lit- 
erary Society of Hiram was organized in 1855, and reorganized May 2, 1862, 
with D. D. Humeston, H B. Norton, C. A. Dudley, C. C. Smith and J. H. 



474 HISTORY OF rORTAGE COUNTY. 

Hogue, Trustees. C. F. Willcutt was Clerk. Delphic Literary Society in 
connection with the Eclectic Institute was organized in 1854, and reorganized 
April 18, 1862, with I. K. Davidson, Edgar Maxon and -T. C. Cannon, Trustees, 
and Lewis L. Campbell, Clerk. L. J. Adair presided. The Alpha Beta 
Delta Society of Hiram College was reorganized Feb. 14, 1870, and chartered 
subsequently. The Young Men's Christian Association was organized in 1868. 

Of the many who have taught at Hiram, mention may be made of the fol- 
lowing distinguished names: 

Munnell, Dunshee, Wilber, Hall, Hillier, Rhodes, Everest, J. M. Atwater, 
Amzi Atwater, Suliote, Thomson, Coffeen, Hill, Dr. Shepard, Lottie M. Sackett, 
Weston, Hinsdale, Demmon, Pardee. "Wakefield, Barber, Booth and Garfield. Al- 
meda Booth came to Hiram in the spring of 1851, and remained in service, except 
one year spent in Oberlin College, until commencement, 1866, in all fourteen 
years and one term. She began her work at Hiram as teacher of English 
studies, but soon became Principal of the ladies' department. Although 
excelling in teaching English studies, yet she taught with success in every 
department of the college. Her life and character formed the theme of an 
address by James A. Garfield at Hiram commencement in 1876. 

In the spring of 1816 Nelson was set oif from Hiram, and at the election 
in the following April Thomas F. Young was chosen Clerk: James Young, 
John Redden and Benjamin Hinckley, Trustees; and Richard Redden, Treas- 
urer. There are no records of the township earlier than 1820, and these offi- 
cers are given from memory. The name of the township. Hiram, was sug- 
gested by Col. Tilden, who proposed it to all the original proprietors, who 
were Freemasons, in honor of an Illustrious Ancient Master Workman well 
known to the fraternity. Owing to the carelessness of a surveyor, who was 
probably unskilled in his business, some of the lines of survey are very 
irregular, frequent cases of lots being several rods wider at one end than the 
other occurring. 

In 1820 there were four Revolutionai'y soldiers residing in Hiram — Col. 
Daniel Tilden, Christopher Redden, Elijah Mason and old Mr. Turner. Hiram 
did nobly in the war of the Rebellion, having been represented by two Major- 
Generals, two Captains and two Lieutenants, besides her full quota of men up 
to 1864. She sent to the front seventy-four men, thirteen of whom were 
killed or died in the service. 

In the winter of 1831 Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon came to Hiram, 
held meetings and made many converts to the then new faith of Latter Day 
Saints, or Mormonism, but after a time something leaked out in regai'd to the 
Saints having an eye on their neighbors' property, that it was their design to 
get into their possession all the lands of those whom they converted. Whether 
the charge was true or not cannot now be affirmed, but at any rate the good 
people of Hiram and some others went to the houses of Smith and Rigdon, 
took them out, stripped them to the bufif, and treated them to a coat of tar and 
feathers and a rail ride, which induced them to leave. 

Hiram occupies the highest elevation on the Reserve, being 1,300 feet above 
eea level, which gives it great salubrity and healthfulness. Its hills and 
dales are not only beautiful, but the land is excellent, being a clay loam, in 
Borne portions sandy, and at the same time it is well watered. It is well 
adapted to fruit and grazing, and in 1865 Ozias Allen made from the milk of 
twenty-one cows 12,600 pounds of cheese, which he sold for 15 cents per 
pound — S90 from each cow. There are in the township three cheese fac- 
tories, three steam saw-mills, two feed-mills and an apple jelly factory, besides 
two general stores at the Center and at Rapids Postoffice. 



MANTUA TOWNSHIP. 475 

The proposed railroad, called the Clinton Air Line, is treated of in the 
■" General History " at page 297. 

Toionship Officers. — Trustees, Homer Abbott, F. R. Freeman, James 
Young; Clerk, S. J. Young; Treasurer, C. L. P. Reno; Assessor, G. B. Mer- 
win; Constables, Joseph Hall, C. C. Sheldon; Justices of the Peace, Arvin 
Wilson, AyA. Turner. Postmaster at Hiram Center, D. H. Beaman; Post- 
master at Rapids, Taylor Wilcox. 

The statistics of this township for 188-4 are as follows: Acres of wheat, 
854, bushels, 8,294; bushels of rye, 40; of oats, 25,029; of corn, 6,489; tons 
of hay, 2,664; of clover hay, 140 tons; of seed, eight bushels; of potatoes, 
40,344; gallons of milk, 350; pounds of home-made butter, 51,738; of factory 
butter, 20,000; of cheese, 19,694; of maple sugar, 12,767; gallons of syrup, 
6,190 from 30,439 maples; of honey, 1,175 pounds from 81 hives; dozens 
of eggs, 25,328; 11,821 bushels of apples, 610 of peaches, and 13 of 
pears from 549 acres; 6,404 pounds of wool; 820 milch cows; 1 stallion; 87 
dogs (killed 8 sheep); died of disease, 7 hogs, 90 sheep, 19 cattle and 9 horses; 
acres cultivated, 4,493; under pasture, 5,657; woodland, 2,578; waste, 114; 
total, 12,842. Population in 1850 was 1,106, including 458 youth; in 1870, 
1,234; in 1880, 1,058; in 1884, 1,000 (estimated). 



CHAPTER XXIV. 
MANTUA TOWNSHIP. 



First Settler of Portage County — First Wheat— Amzi Atwater — Elias 
Harmon — Other Settlers— Organization— First Birth, Marriage and 
Death— Primitive Industries— A Peculiar Character— Another Queer 
One— Judge Atwater's Bear Fight— Churches and Schools— Business, 
Soil, etc.— Mantua Station — Mantua corners — Masonry— Statistics. 

MANTUA received the first settler that entered Portage County, anticipating 
four other townships by about six months. It was originally the property 
of the "SufiQeld, Cuyahoga & Big Beaver Laud Company," all the members of 
which, some sixteen in number, lived in Suffield, Conn. This company owned 
three other townships, but at the drawing the land now comprising Mantua fell 
to the lot of David, Fidelio and Ebenezer King, Jr., and Martin Sheldon, 
Gideon Granger, Thomas Sheldon and Oliver Phelps, also owned small par- 
cels of the land, and Ebenezer Sheldon afterward purchased a part of Martin 
Sheldon's interest. It was then known as Town 5, Range 8. The township 
was surveyed by David Abbott into tracts of 420 acres each, there being forty- 
two lots. Abbott took two quarter lots, northwest quarter of Lot 29 and 
southeast quarter of Lot 23. He was a member of the convention that formed 
the first constitution of Ohio. 

The first man to drive a stake, put up a cabin, make a clearing and settle 
down to business was Abraham L. Honey, which he did in the fall of 1798, 
and although it has been asserted that a man by the name of Peter French 
came in the fall of 1798, cleared off some land on the northwest quarter of Lot 
24 and put out a small patch of wheat, he also cleared some land on the south- 
west quarter of Lot 29. After making those improvements he moved to Men- 
tor. That a small crop of wheat was harvested the next season by Rufus 
Edwards, who came in and took possession of Lot 24, the lot settled upon by 
Honey, is beyond dispute. How he got possession of Lot 24 does not now 



476 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

appear. Honey remained only two or three years in Mantua, when he moved 
to Hiram and from there to Cuyahoga County. The wife of Honey was a sis- 
ter of Rufus Edwards, and it is possible that Honey made the improvements 
for his brother-in-law, himself settling on a portion of the land, there being 
plenty of room on 420 acres for three or four families in those times. At any 
rate Rufus Edwai-ds was the second settler, for in the notes keptby Elias Har- 
mon of those early days he says that just after he came in he chopped for 
Edwards and hewed for Crooks. Crooks by this appears to have been the third 
settler, though not a permanent one, as he only arrived at Mr. Honey's on 
the 12th of June, 1799. David Crooks, the person referred to, settled on 
the southwest part of Lot 29. He remained there until November, 1799, 
when he went for his family, who refused to return to Ohio with him. Will- 
iam Crooks died in Aurora, some time in the fifties at the age of eighty-five 
years. He located in Warren, then at Nelson, next at Parkman, and ultimately 
in Aurora. 

Elias Harmon, who can be set down as the fourth settler, was born in Suf- 
lield. Conn., in 1773, and started for the Reserve in February, 1799, in a two- 
horse sleigh, going as far as Pittston, N. Y., where he remained till May, 
when, in company with Benjamin Tappan, David Hudson and Jotham Atwa- 
ter, started for their future home — Ta,ppan for Ravenna, then Town 3, Range 
8; Hudson for what is now Summit County; Atwater for Euclid, and Harmon 
for Mantua. After a long, tiresome and perilous trip, partly by lake, partly 
by land and partly by river, Harmon landed at the clearing of Honey, as 
stated, on the 12th of June, where he stopped awhile, and then went to the 
place of Ebenezer Sheldon, who had engaged him before leaving home to help 
him in boarding and aiding the surveyors in their allotment of Aurora, after- 
ward returning to Mantua with his wife in September, 1799, and settling on 
Lot 18. One of two or three entries in his diary, shows that the erection of 
a habitation in those days was a matter to be accomplished in short order; 
he savs: "July 1, began to cut timber for our house. July 2, put up and 
moved into house. July 3, got timber for floor. July 4, laid thefloor." 

An entry under date July 15,1799, is as follows: 

Rufus Edwards, Dr. Rufus Edwards, Cr. 

June 15, half day chopping $ 37i Sept. 1799. By eight days working at 

Aug. i of a day stacking wheat 25 the mill (Cohand grist-mill). . . .$6 00 

Oct. To one day logging 75 Dec. 1799. By f of a day work 50 

To * pound of tobacco lent. " By 1^ day laying floor 1 12i 

Jan.' 7, 1800. To mending great coat 12 Jan. 1800. By putting a sight to my 

" 25. " To makeing a shirt — 37* gun 25 

Mar. 16, " To washing and bak- Ap. 19, 1800. By a day work at 

ing 251 burning 75 

April, isOO. To washing and bak- May 6. By'rolling logs aday 75 

ing 31-i "16. By cutting and splitting rails 

" 18. To chopping rail timber a day 75 

one day '" Miv 29 / 

" 20. To burning brush half day 37i juiie i; f By two days roll logs 150 

To lib. tobacco jen< May 3. By half day pick up brush. . 87i 

" 26 and 28. To drawing rails two g^ ^^ j of venison at 3c per lb 44 

half days 1 --5 j^jy 5 gy ^^ing to Mr. Delon mills 

" 30. To two-thirds of a day lay- after whisky 75 



ing fence 50 



July 15. By half day hoeing 37i 



May 12. To half day drawing rails.. 62i j^^j jg" -^qqq -\Vg ^his day Compared books 

" 19. To drawing logs a day 1 ^0 ^j^^j f^^^^ ^^^ to Harmon one dollar to bal- 

" 21 and 22. To oxen to drag two ^^j,^ 

<lay9 VA^-r^-W,--^ i • • • • ^ ^^ Rufus Edwards. 

" 26, 27 and 28. To 21 days plant- • ^lias Harmon. 

ing. . . . : 1 871 

July 8. By hoeing one day 75 

" 14. By hoeing five days 3 75 




^^..i^yfu^^ 



MANTUA TOWNSHIP. 479 

In ♦the fall of 1799 Paschal P. Mcintosh came in and settled on Lot 23. 
He was a half-brother to Gen. David Mcintosh, and came from Haverhill, 
N. H. The fact of his being here at that early date is shown by the notes 
kept by Elias Harmon, where he says: "October 21, 1799, helped Mcintosh to 
raise his house. " In this year also came Elisha Edwards and Samuel Bur- 
roughs. The next year, 1800, brought in a number of settlers, among whom 
were Moses Pond, who settled on Lot 35, and afterward moved to Mesopo- 
tamia; Jonathan Brooks also came, but soon went to Burton and settled. The 
Windsor family came in this year, Basil Windsor, Sr. , being the head. Sam- 
uel Pond, who also came at this time, shortly before they moved away, got 
lost on a trip to Burton and was almost without food for nine days. It was in 
the winter, and all his toes were frozen off, crippling him for life. Seth 
Harmon, John Blair and Jotham Atwater were among the settlers, but the man 
who more than any other left his impress on the township and county was 
Amzi Atwater. Jotham and Amzi Atwater came from Hamden, Conn. , in the 
spring of 1800, and settled on 200 acres of the west part of Lot 41, where 
now is Mantua Station. On the 21st of November, 1801, Amzi married, in 
Aurora, Huldah Sheldon, daughter of Ebenezer Sheldon, the couple being 
married by ihe father of the bride, which was the only official act performed 
by the old Squire during the first three years of his holding that position. At the 
first election, on the organization of the county, Atwater was one of the 
Judges, and the Legislatui'e appointed him one of the Judges of the Court of 
Common Pleas, which positicm he held for a long time, tilling it with marked 
ability, impartiality and dignity. He had received a liberal education in his 
native State, had selected civil engineering and surveying as his profes- 
sion, and, joining the party under Cleveland, came to the Western Reserve 
first in 1796. Being of a hardy constitution and determined will, combined 
with a buoyancy of disposition, he was specially adapted to the life of pioneer 
and surveyor. He was possessed of great versatility of talent, vigor of intel- 
lect, having withal a genial temperament and a fund of quiet humor that 
made him popular. He was courageous rather than daring, persevering, reso- 
lute and of sound judgment, qualities which rendered him useful in those 
early times. He was very ready with his pen, and wrote many letters to his 
relatives in the East, entirely in rhyme, covering ten or a dozen pages of fools- 
cap, several of which were published some years ago, but which are too long 
for reproduction here. 

Joseph Skinner and W'illiam Skinner came at an early day: also Samuel 
Moore and his son, who killed the last wild deer in the township in 1845; Moore 
came with an ox-team from Southwick, Mass., in 1806, bringing his wife and 
six children; a family of Rays came in at the same time. Quite a noted 
character in his way came in December, 1812, from Windham, whence he had 
moved from Nelson, coming originally from Massachusetts. This was 
Wareham Loomis. He brought his wife and family, and worked afterward 
for Judge Atwater. During a couple of years, covering the period of the 
war of 1812-14, there was a comparative stoppage of immigration, but in 
1815 and 1816 a large number came in. Chester Reed, with his wife and 
four children, and three other families came in 1815, and in 1816 Sylvester 
Reed, in company with twelve other young men, came and settled in different 
localities; also the Frosts, Marvin and James, the latter walking the entire 
distance from the East, with an ax on his shoulder, Capt. William Messenger, 
with his wife and six children, Jonathan Foster, the Roots, the Sanfords, the 
Ladds, the Judsons and others. Peter Carlton came in 1811. 

March 5, 1810, the County Commissioners issued an order creating the 



480 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

township, and shortly afterward an election was held, but the records of the 
township were destroyed in a lire which occurred in 1815, and the names of 
the officers elected cannot now be ascertained. At this time Shalersville was 
included in Mantua, but in 1812 Shalersville was erected into a separate town- 
ship, and cut oflf. The name Mantua was given by John Leavitt, in honor of 
Napoleon, who had in 1796 captured the city by that name in Italy. In 
1806 there were but twenty-seven men in the township, but in 1810, at the 
organization, there was a population of 234. Elias Harmon was appointed 
United States Marshal in 1810, and took the census of that year. In his 
enumeration of Mantua he gives the following names of heads of families and 
the number of each family: Rufus Edwards, 6; Samuel Moore, 8; Silas 
Penney, 8; Moses Pond, 5; Thomas Bright, 6; Franklin Snow, 5; Virgil 
Moore, 3; Silas Tinker, 5; Elias Harmon, 6; Gersham Judson, 5; James Ray, 
10; David Pond, 5; Jotham Atwater, 5; Amzi Atwater, 6; Oliver Snow, 6; 
Paschal P. Mcintosh, 7; Enoch Judson, 5; Samuel Judson, 5; William Rus- 
sel, 7; John Blair, 9; William Johnson, 9; Ella Wilmot, 2; Basil Windsor, 
7; William Skinner, 6, and Seth Harmon 6. The total population was 152 in 
the fall of 1810; a great decrease within that year. Dr. Jason Moore and Mrs. 
(Blair) Patterson are the only persons now living in the township who were 
enumerated in this township. Orrin Harmon resides at Ravenna. 

Simeon Sheldon, Lister, in 1825, stated in the Western Courier that up to 
June 11, 1825, there had been 38 mai'riages, 369 births, and 22 deaths of three 
years old and upward, and 45 deaths under three years. They took 41 news- 
papers from 11 different^presses, and 10 religious periodicals from 5 different 
presses. In the earliest days, when there was no mill nearer than Burton, the 
little crop of wheat raised had to be husbanded with great care, and there was 
so little of it that it could all be sent off to mill at once. Rufus Edwards on 
one occasion collected all the grain and took it in a canoe to Burton, and had 
it ground, bat arriving late at night he left it in the boat, intending to get it 
as soon as daylight appeared, but when he went for it the next morning he 
found that some prowling Indians had carried it all off. It was all the flour 
there was in the township. 

In 1803 the men of Mantua, Hiram, Aurora and Nelson Townships were 
organized into a militia company, with Ezra Wyatt, Captain, and Rufus 
Edwards, First Lieutenant. On his removal to Hudson, Edwards was elected 
Captain. He began the erection of a distillery on the Honey farm, but never 
opened one there. 

The enlisted and drafted men from Mantua in the war of 1812 were Enos, 
Zacheas and John Harmon; James Ray, Mark Moore, John A. Smyth and 
Zenas Judson's substitute were in Campbell's company. The drafted men 
were Eleazer Ladd, David Pond, Horace Ladd, John Gardner and Virgil 
Moore. During this troublous time the "Fourth" was celebrated with eclat at 
Rufus Edwards' house. This was the first regular celebration here. The first 
child born in the township was Eunice, a daughter of Elias Harmon, who made 
her first appearance in this world of trouble July 16, 1800, being the second 
child born in the county. She married Simeon Sheldon, and raised a family. 
The first male child was Horace, born to Moses Pond in 1803. The first wed- 
ding took place also in 1803, when Rufus Edwards married Letitia Windsor, 
Amzi Atwater, at that time Justice of the Peace of Hudson, performing the 
ceremony. The first death was that of Mrs. Anna Judson, who had but recently 
been married, and just moved in with her husband. She had arsenic given to 
her through mistake, which caused death in a short time. This occun-ed July 
2, 1804, and the next was during the winter of 1806, when Jacob Blair was 
killed while assisting in the raising of a house. 



MANTUA TOWNSHIP. 481 

The deaths in Mantua from 1799 to January 1, 1825, were as follows: Enoch 
Judson's first wife in 1804; Wareham Loomis' child, two years old, in 1805; 
Jacob Blair, killed at a "raising" in 1807; Mark Moore died in 1812; Samuel 
Judson's wife in 1813; IchaHod Payne in 1813; Melissa Reed in 181G; Enoch 
Judson's second wife died in 1816; Amzi Atwater, son of Amzi, Sr. , in 1810; 
Caleb, son of Rufus Edwards, about 1817; Leonard, son of Lorenzo Chapin, 
in 1818; wife of Basil "Windsor, Sr., in 1818; Martha, daughter of Seth Har- 
mon, in 1820; Franklin Snow's first wife in 1820; Lorenzo Chapin's second 
son, Leonard M., in 1820; Persis, daughter of Dan Ladd, Jr., in 1822; Eze- 
kiel Ladd in 1822; Ezekiel Squires in 1822; Zenas Kent, Sr., in 1822; Caleb 
Carlton, Sr., in 1823; Thomas Mayfield, Sr., in 1823; Basil Windsor, Sr., in 
1823; Polly, daughter of Sila« Penney, in 1823; Mr. Bacon in 1821; and 
Harvey, son of Jotham Atwater, in 1824. 

In 1799 Rufus Edwards constructed a hand grist-mill, which he opened in 
October of that year. A small building called the tannery was established by 
Moses Pond in 1802, and continued until 1812, when Dan Ladd, Jr., built a 
house and established a regular tannery. Pond, having no tools, had the 
hides finished at Burton. It was he who brought the first sheep into the 
township, and also apple seeds. 

In 1810 William Russell purchased the distillery apparatus of Gersham 
and Samuel Judson, and erected a building in which he made whisky until 
the spring of 1817, when he sold the farm, cabin and distillery to George and 
William P. Young. Orrin Harmon remembers Russell's whisky in connection 
with sheep-washing days, before the manufacturer moved to Pennsylvania. In 
1818 Young failed, and Russell then re-purchased his property, which he sold 
to Ezekiel Ladd in 1821. In 1822 Ladd died, when Russell resumed posses- 
sion, and ultimately sold it to Patrick Ray. This Ray was one of the seven 
sons of James Ray. In 1819 Hezekiah Mooney and Dr. Ezekiel Squires 
■erected a distillery. In 1819 Joseph Skinner built a distillery for which he 
made the machinery himself. This was biarned in 1824, and the same year he 
erected a new distillery near his grist-mill, on the northwest corner of east 
half of Lot 30. This grist-mill was built in 1820. 

Thomas G. Washburn established an ashery, near the public square at 
Mantua Center, in 1818, and continued it for about ten years. 

The first saw-mill was erected by the Dresser family in 1818, on the north 
line of the county, and the next mill, a grist, was erected by Joseph and W^ill- 
iam Skinner, shortly after 1820. It was on the Cuyahoga, where the diag- 
onal road to Garrettsville crosses that stream. 

In 1821 David Ladd built a brick kiln; but in the fall he secured a glass- 
blower named Jonathan Tinker, rented his brother Daniel's tannery (erected 
in 1812), and began the manufacture of bottle glass December 1, 1821, under 
the title of the Mantua Glass Company, C9ntinuing here until 1823, when he 
moved the plant to Kent, where he built a factory. Noah and Noble Rogers 
settled south of Mantua Center in 1825, and erected a tannery on a lot bought 
of Oliver Snow. In 1829 they sold to Elias Converse, whose sons now oper- 
ate it. 

The first tavern was built and kept by Jotham Atwater, about one mile 
north of Mantua Station. It was a log building, and was for years a noted 
tavern stand. A brick building was afterward erected at the same spot, but 
has since bfeen modeled into a dwelling, and is now occupied by Lewis Turner. 
There were two pail factories, one owned by Charles Bates, and the other by 
Joseph Skinner, and the ware made by Skinner was first class. It is claimed 
that he invented the process of turning pails and other hollow ware. The 



482 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

manufacture of cheese from the earliest times has been a source of great rev- 
enue to the township, and the i-aising of fine potatoes has also been an indus- 
try that has grown to large proportions. 

Dr. Ezekiel Squires was the first physician in*the township, having, with 
his ^ family, settled there in 1815. Subsequently Drs. Whipple and Pierce 
came in, the latter leaving the medical field open to Whipple until 1828, when 
Dr. Edwin Cowles came. In 1825 Dr. Whipple lost all his children during 
the epidemic of that year. 

Daniel Bidlake was the first blacksmith, early in 1815. The people bought 
him an outfit, for which he paid by easy installments. 

Alonzo Delano opened out at Mantua Corners in 1829, as successor to 
Joseph Skinner. In 1826-27 Childs had a store at the Corners, while Orrin 
Harmon taught school there. 

Calvin White opened the first store at the Center in June, 1835. His wife 
was Sabrina Harmon. Mr. White died in January, 1848, and his wife died 
in October, 1849. 

In 1814 the first bridge over the Cuyahoga on the Center road from Man- 
tua to Hiram, was built by Rufus Edwards, the county contributing $100. 
That bridge is standing still. Orrin Harmon states " it's the same old jack- 
knife, with a number of new handles and new blades." 

In the spring of 1816 the first colored people came to Mantua. They were 
Benjamin Sharpe and wife, Lucy and Thomas Hughes. Flora, a colored 
woman in the employ of the Garretts, formerly a slave of Mrs. Garrett, mar- 
ried Hughes, also colored, in 1818. 

Samuel Sanford, who settled in Mantua in 1817, and died September 27, 
1858, was the last survivor of the Revolutionary war veterans who settled in 
this county. 

Mark Moore suffered so much while in the hands of the British in 1812, 
that on his return to Mantua he died, and was the fourth person buried in the 
cemetery one mile and a half south of Mantua Center. 

Elizabeth Kent taught the first school at Mantua Center in the winter of 
1815-16. 

W. A. Smith established the manufacture of pails, butter-tubs and cheese- 
boxes, besides operating a saw-mill and planing-mill at Shalersville. On remov- 
ing this industry to Mantua he erected the buildings now devoted to the several 
branches of his manufactory. The capacity of the saw-mill is 10,000 feet; 
the machinery is valued at about $8,000. The works stand on six acres of 
land just east of the railroad station at Mantua. This industry gives employ- 
ment the year round. A portable steam saw-mill is also operated. H. A. Tar-- 
ner is in charge of the saw-mill, and F. H. Hains in charge of the pail fac- 
tory. 

The building known as the Goddard Foundry is one of the old industrial 
structures of this portion of the township. It is now operated by Ed. God- 
dard as a foundry and cider-mill. 

The Centennial Mills were founded by John Frost and Peter Kines in 
1876, in buildings where the Hancock Basket Factory was carried on pi-oviously. 
There were three run of buhrs in use until 1881, when ten sets of rollers were 
introduced. The capacity is seventy-five barrels per day, employing four men 
annually. The value of buildings and machinery is $10,000. John Frost & Co. 
are the present owners. The mill does custom and merchant w^Yk. H. O. 
Kitselman has been the miller in charge since 1880. 

National Transit Company of Bradford, Penn. , established pumping works 
at Mantua, with Fred. Tinker in charge. C. H. Rider is the present Super- 



MANTUA TOWNSHIP. 483 

iBtendent. There are two powerful engines; the line of five-inch pipe from 
Hilliard, Butler County, Penn., to Cleveland is about 104 miles. At the Man- 
tua works the oil is contained in a large reservoir, of 12,000 gallons capacity, 
from which it is pumped into the reservoir at Cleveland, thirty-one miles dis- 
tant. A. P. Carlton's carriage and wagon shop was established in 1880; 
the present shop was erected in 1884. The work of the shop is mainly 
I'epairs, giving employment to two men. 

George Allen was engaged in wagon and carriage work for a number of 
years prior to 1880. His shops have been rented since that time, and are now 
occupied by Emery Simpson as a horse- shoeing establishment. 

The first hotel was built by Amzi Atwater, and first estabJished as a hotel by 
Lewis Turner about the time the Cleveland & Mahoning Valley Kailroad was 
completed to this point. Shortly after this Homer Frost purchased the house, 
then sold to Austin S. Beecher, who built the present Cuyahoga House in 
front of the old Atwater House, now conducted by H. T. Barnum. The house 
is the property of J. T. Spink. 

The Mantua House was built by D. Santori, who conducted it as a hotel 
until rented to H. S. Sage about a year ago. 

L. S. Turner established a livery at Mantua Station in January, 1885. The 
buildings cost about $2,000. In this building is Russell's photograph gallery 
and G. W. Franklin's harness shop. 

Theo. Burnett, who was the pioneer of livery business here, died about two 
years ago, since which time the business has been carried on by J. H. Ditto 
& Sons. 

Mantua Station. — This flourishing little town has about 700 population, 
and is on the site of an old settlement, but was laid out more extensively about 
the time the Cleveland & Mahoning Valley Railroad, now a branch of the New 
York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Railroad, was built by Darwin Atwater. It grew 
rapidly, and is^now an exceedingly live village, having a good class of build- 
ings and progressive citizens. It is a large shipping point for potatoes, cheese, 
onions, some cattle and sheep, and considerable garden truck. There are large 
shipments of potatoes, one dealer alone handling about 50,000 bushels during 
the season. Another provision shipper placed upon the cars during last spring 
an average of 300 calves per week. Great quantities of pails and other 
wooden-ware are also shipped, and in the matter of cheese Mantua stands as 
one of the leading points on the Reserve, there being three large factories for 
that product in the township, besides being the shipping point for the greater 
part of three other townships. 

The business at the Station is as follows: Smith's pail and wood work fac- 
tory, which employs about twelve hands; Smith's lumber yard; Centennial Flour- 
ing-Mills, Frost & Knowles; general stores, Bowen & Sons, A. A. Gilbreath; 
drugs, O. P. Hays, C. W. Brainerd; groceries, S. Beecher, Kyle & Davis, 
Ditto & Sons; livery stable. Ditto & Sons; hardware, A. Barber; tinware, W. 
Westpeaker; millinery, Mrs. Mattie Smith; furniture. F. Bard; clothing, 
Choeker & Muncy; dealer in hides, pelts, etc.. Will Croft; dealer in produce, 
W. H. Bradley; shoes, Philip Baldinger; foundry, Ed. Goddard; cider-mill, Ed. 
Goddard; Mantua House, C. H. Sage; Cuyahoga Hotel, H. T. Barnum; Tay- 
lor House, A. H. Taylor; carpenters; blacksmiths; restaurant; barber shop; 
physicians, Dr. George C. Way, Dr. Erwin; dentist, Dr. A. A. Carlton; 
lawyer, Cheny Ingle; Postmaster, Cheny Ingle; there is a fine Opera Hoiise. 

Mantua Corners. — General stores, C. H. Ray, J. W. Foster & Co; grocery 
and notions, Mrs. Frazier; Postmaster, C. H. Ray; Dr. S. K. Wilcox. 

The township is high and rolling, especially in the southern portion, and 
unsurpassed for fruit-raising and dairying, it standing next to Aurora in the 



484 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

manufacture of cheese. It is well watered, and the soil is a sandy loam, mak- 
ing it splendidly adapted to the production of potatoes, where the finest in 
the world are raised. 

Methodist Episcopal Church of Mantua was organized in September, 1807, 
by Rev. R. R. Roberts, with Paschal P. Mcintosh and wife, Basil Windsor, 
Rufus Edwards and Asahel Mills. The first building was erected in 1820-21 
at the Center, 24x32 feet. This log- house was used for eighteen years, when a 
new meeting-house was erected. This house was burned, and the same year a 
third Methodist Church building was erected. The old pastors were Joshua 
"Windsor, 1810, Henry Ferris, John L. Ferris and Joseph Ferris, William 
Bump, Milton M. Moore, H. H. Moore and Albert Reed. In 1825 Paschal 
Mcintosh, one of the founders, was dismissed, owing partly to his hostility to 
the United States. In 1815 he returned to Mantua, and his children were 
the first who had the whooping-cough in the county. 

The Congregational Church of Mantua was organized by Revs. Seward and 
Darragh, May 31, 1812. The first members were Daniel Ladd and wife, Joel 
Walter and wife, of Shalersville, William Russell and wife, Daniel Ladd, Jr., 
and wife, Eleazer Ladd and wife. Eunice Harmon, the grandmother of Orrin 
Harmon, Lois Atwater, mother of Judge Amzi Atwater, Mrs. Eunice Moore 
and Mrs. Sally Pond. 

In 1816 a brick church was erected at Aurora Center for this society. Jus- 
tus Parrish and others supplied the brick. Previous to 1816 this society held 
meetings in the first schoolhouse. 

The Baptist Church was founded at Mantua in 1809 by Elder Jones, the 
meeting being held near the Judson cabin. The first persons baptized were 
Oliver Snow and wife, Jotham Atwater and wife, and Rufus Edwards and 
wife, Mr. Edwards leaving the Methodist Church. Those persons were bap- 
tized in the Cuyahoga near Judson's. John Rudolph and William West were 
also members. In 1826 Sidney Rigdon, subsequently Joe Smith's Lieutenant, 
was preacher to this society. In 1827 Sidney Rigdon left the Baptist 
Church and organized a Campbellite or Disciples Church, and succeeded in 
taking almost all the members of the old Baptist Church with him. 

Disciples Church of Mantua was reorganized July 6, 1850, P. N. Jen- 
nings, D. Atwater and Edwin Sandford were elected Trustees, and C, D. Wil- 
ber. Secretary. 

The Universalist doctrine was preached at Mantua by Rev. Reuben Jones, 
from 1815 to 1831, when he died. 

Mantua Association of Spiritualists was incorporated July 9, 1881; Sam- 
uel S. Russell, Joel B. Gilbert, Reuben O. Halsted, David M. King and Henry 
Cobb, members. 

Camp-meeting Association of Spiritualists of northern Ohio was organ- 
ized October 2, 1881, with Ira. Lake, President; A. Underbill and Mrs. Amon, 
Vice-Presidents; Mrs. Sarah Rockhill, Alliance, Mrs. M. A. Merrill. Record- 
ing Sec; Silas Crocker, Treasurer; Samuel Fish, Melon; Reuben Hal- 
stead, Mantua; Mrs. Mercy Lane, Braceville; Frank Maloy, Hudson; Jesse 
Erwin, Alliance; Frank Rily, W^arren; M. V. Meller, New Lynn, and 
Lewis King, Cleveland. 

The Catholic Church was built at Mantua Station in 1872-73, under con- 
tract with the congregation, by Squire Fair. The building cost about $1,000, 
and the altar, pews and furnishing, about $1, 500. The congregation numbers 
about 150 members. 

Union Church. — The first Protestant Church building at Mantua Station is 
that now known as the Union Church, which is open to all Christian denom- 
inations for religious service. 



MANTUA TOWNSHIP. 485 

The first school was taught in the winter of 1806-07, at the house of 
Amzi Atwater, by John Harmon, and the next one was in the summer of 1807 
the teacher being Patty Cochran, from Aurora, who afterward became the wife 
of Ebenezer Sheldon. The school was near where Rufus Edwards had form 
erly lived. In 1808 John Harmon opened a school in Amzi Atwater's house 
There is at present a fine graded school at the Station, in charge of Prof. Will 
iam Thomas, in addition to the district schools in various parts of the township 

Mantua Township Schools. — Revenue in 1884, 13,225.83; expenditures 
$1,916.37; eight school buildings valued at $3,600; average pay of teachers 
$34 and $26; enrollment, 96 boys and 73 girls. 

Mantua Special District.— Revenue, $4,650.33; expenditures, $1,281.39, 
one schoolhouse valued at $2,500; average pay of teachers, $60 and $37; enroll- 
ment, 43 boys and 57 girls. 

Mantua Lodge, No. 533, A. F. & A. M. —There is a very flourishing lodge 
of the brothers of the "mystic tie," and although of but recent organization 
has a membership of over fifty. The lodge was chartered and organized in 
the fall of 1883, and the following were the charter olficers and members: G. 
D. Smith, W. M. ; E. M. Frost, S. W. ; G. W. Franklin, J. W. ; A. A. Barber, 
C. H. Thompson, C. E. Ryder, Edgar Chapman, C. H. Bowen, A. H. Kyle, 
G. T. Mattison, S. P. Vaughn, L. L. Reed, S. E. Coit, C. H Ray, R. O. Hal- 
stead, G. F. Hinckley, A. S. Beecher, E. L. Hine, Myron Richards, M. B. San- 
ford, C. W. Brainerd, D. Washburn, J. Byron, James and William Bowen. 
A. A. Barber is the present Master. 

Bentley Post, 294, G. A. R., named in honor of one of the soldiers of Man- 
tua, was organized February 21, 1883, with the following members: C. H. 
Ray, Myron Richards, N. A. Curtiss, A. M. Bishop, M. E. Haskin, G. W. 
Flemming, M. W\ Chapman, H. M. Murry, A. C. Fish, J. B. Hinman, Warren 
Bowers, C. M. Stroud, George Yeagley, T. M. Esty, A. M. Erwin, M. D., G. 
G. Striker, M. C. Sweet, C. A. White, F. H. Adams, Edward Stiverson, James 
Flemming, C. A. Bartholomew, S. C. Rice, F. P. Bard, George Hurlbut, Charles 
Crawford, Henry Briggs, H. F. Smith, S. C, Crane, C. S. Steward and O. W. 
Folsom. The members who have joined since that time are S. A. Udall, Robert 
Crawford, Edgar Chapman, W. H. H. Wheeler, Nelson S. Bartholomew, J. 
F. Schoville, L. Winchell, W. C. Ensign, C. H. Maggs, A. B. Crane, A. H. 
Button, T. W, Anderson, William Ferrall, Edwin Smith, Henry Langston, 
Henry Barthold, H. S. Sheldon, John Hass, F. A. Derthick, Merrit Dutton, J. 
T. Spink, A. R. Houghton, H. O. Snedeker, Henry Green, A. W. Mills, O. 
W. Truman, Charles Duncan, Sylvester Force and J. B. Shaffer. The first 
Commander was A. M. Erwin, who served until succeeded by F. A. Derthick 
in 1885. G. G. Striker is Adjutant, and Edgar Chapman, Quartermaster. 

The statistics of Mantua for 1884 pi-esent the following figures: Acres of 
wheat, 923; bushels, 7,128; of buckwheat, 29 acres and 60 bushels; of oats, 
677 acres and 24,132 bushels; of corn, 512 acres and 2,161 bushels; of meadow, 
2,228 acres and 3,288 tons of hay; of clover. 65 acres and 93 tons of hay and 6 
bushels of seed; of potatoes 383 acres, yielding 42,637 bushels; pounds of 
home-made butter, 40,065; pounds of cheese, 476,450; pounds of maple sugar, 
17,957, and gallons of syrup, 3,385 from 20,155 trees; pounds of honey, 1,727 
from 98 hives; dozens of eggs. 16,591; 5,889 bushels of apples, 12 of 
peaches, 1 of cherries, and 3 of pears, from 323 acres of orchai'd; 4,164 
pounds of wool; 1,233 milch cows; 1 stallion; 87 dogs; animals died of 
disease, 7 hogs; 48 sheep, 17 cattle and 4 horses; acres cultivated, 5,734: 
pasture, 6,345; wood-land, 2,972; waste, 281; total, 15,332. Population in 
1850, 1,383, including 436 youth; 1870, 1,126; in 1880, 1,150; in 1884 (esti- 
mated), 1,200. 



486 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 



CHAPTER XXV. 
NELSON TOWNSHIP. 

Coming of the Pioxeers— The Mills Brothers— Two Lonesome Families- 
Important Arrivals— Heads of Families in 1815— First Bl'ildings— 
First Arrivals and Departures— Churches and Schools— Taverns, 
Mills and HoADs—Fiot Justitia, Ruat Ccehim —Ex^pi^oits of Capt. Mills- 
Summary— Tom'nship Officers— The Ledges— Statistics. 

"^TELSON, when the first settler arrived in it, and for seventeen years 
_L^ thereafter, was included in the territory comprised in several of the 
adjoining townships under the name of Hiram, but in the surveys was laid o£f 
as Town 5, Range 6. The original proprietors, who purchased from the Con- 
necticut Land Company were Urial Holmes, Ephraim Root, Timothy Burr 
and Appolos Hitchcock, Holmes being the principal owner. 

In the spring of ISOO, three sons of Deacon Ezekiel Mills, of Becket, 
Mass., started out to seek their fortunes in the "Western Reserve. They were 
Delaun, aged twenty-four, who had married at the age of sixteen, and 
had three children; Asahel, who had been married two years, and had one 
child; and Isaac, nineteen years of age and single. These three men with 
the two wives and four children started out in two covered wagons, each drawn 
by a yoke of oxen. Several weeks elapsed before they reached Youngstown, 
then a very diminutive hamlet, containing only a few log-cabins. By this 
time the money of the brothers had dwindled down to less than 25 cents, so 
they had to seek employment, and, as luck would have it, Urial Holmes, the 
principal proprietor of Nelson, happened to be on his way to his land for the 
purpose of having it surveyed, so the brothers were engaged as ax-men to the 
surveyors, who were led by Amzi Atwater, afterward one of the most noted 
citizens of the county, and Roger Cook. Leaving their families at Youngs- 
town, the brothers went forward to their work, and returned in the following 
September. Delaun immediately removed his family to a cabin on 100 acres 
of land given to him by Holmes as a reward for his settling thereon, which 
land was on the north side of the road, just west of the Center; Asahel 
remained in Y'oungstown till the following spring (1801), and then settled on 
100 acres on the north and south road, which, it is thought, was also a gift 
from Holmes; Isaac returned to the East. Asahel in after years became a 
Methodist preacher and died in Deerfield. Delaun had an extremely adven- 
turous life, and some of his exploits and experiences will be given in this 
sketch further along. He was a man of not only great physical strength, but 
of unusual sturdiness of character, as brave as a lion, and perfectly fearless 
of consequences, having withal a coolness of temper that to a foe was exas- 
perating. It is said that one of the blandest of smiles would overspread his 
features when drawing a bead on some cowardly savage who had waylaid and 
missed him. He was a man of little education, but possessed of extraordi- 
nary common sense and correctness of judgment. 

Delaun and Asahel Mills and their families were the only inhabitants of 
the township till the spring of 1803, when quite a number arrived from Mas- 






iP 







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IN ♦ 




(^'^^^^^^i^^^^?^^^ (^;;^>^^*^ 



NELSON TOWNSHIP. 489 

sachusetts and Connecticut and made settlement. Among those were Stephen 
Baldwin, Benjamin Stow and his two sons, Daniel and Caleb, John Bancroft 
with four sons, Rudolphus, JohD, Artemus and David, Daniel Owen, two 
brothers, Stiles and William, Thomas Kennedy and Asa Truesdale, making 
seven families in all, which constituted the entire population of Nelson in 
1804. In this year came Isaac Mills, the father of Mr. Albert Mills, of the 
Center, who is now seventy-eight years of age, and well preserved in all his 
faculties. The old gentleman has been a great singer in his day, and led the 
sieging in bis church for over forty years, having only within the past two or 
three years ceased to do so. Isaac, in company with a friend, Origen Adams, 
both being single men, made the journey on foot from Connecticut, but the 
former, doing quite well the first year, returned to Connecticut and on Novem- 
ber 27, 1805, married his pretty little sweetheart. Miss Polly Adams, a dam- 
sel of only fifteen years. It was a fearful undertaking for the child-wife to 
come to this far-distant wilderness, but of such stuff were some of the women 
of those days made, that the little girl became a splendid pioneer wife, equal 
to all emergencies, content and happy, a blessing to all who knew her, and 
the mother of stalwart sons and buxom daughters. 

In July, 1804, also settled Col. John Garrett, from Delaware, for whom was 
named Garrettsville. A German from Delaware, named Johann Noah, came 
about the same time as Col. Garrett; also Abraham Dyson, from Delaware, 
who settled near Col. Garrett, on the spot that afterward became the village 
of Garrettsville. In 1805 came John Tinker and Nathaniel Bancroft, sons- 
in-law of Benjamin and Daniel Stow, Martin Manly and Daniel Wood. 

In 1806 Asahel Mills, having fitted up accommodations for his aged 
father and mother, brought the old couple out, but the Deacon died in 1809 
and his widow followed him several years later. Oliver Mills, a brother of the 
above, also settled in the township about 1809, and aboat the same time came 
Charles May, the Rudolphs and Rev. William West, a Baptist minister. 

In 1810 or thereabouts came Charles Johnson, from Connecticut, bringing 
three sons, Erastus, Alanson aod Charles, Jr. 

In 1811-12 a large company, mostly Presbyterians, came in from Connec- 
ticut, prominent among whom were Deacon Joshua B. Sherwood, Wells Clark, 
Bridsey Clark, Theron Colton, David Beardsley, Titus Bonney, Hezekiah 
Bonney, John Hannah, David Goodsell and a large connection of the Hopkins 
family. Emigration then ceased almost entirely till the close of the war, 
1812-14. 

In 1815 an enumeration of the settlers of the township resulted in a show- 
ing of thirty -three heads of families, as follows: Hezekiah Higley, John 
Bancroft, Jr., Adolphus Bancroft, Titus Bonney, Benjamin Stow, John Ban- 
croft, Sr., William Kennedy, Thomas Kennedy, John Hannah, Rossitter Hop- 
kins, Stephen Baldwin, Delaun Mills, John Tinker, Alanson Johnson, David 
Beardsley, Benjamin Pritchard, Theron Colton, Rev. William West, John 
Rudolph, Widow Gan-ett, Joshua B. Sherwood, Isaac Mills, Robert C. Ben- 
nett, Sylvanus Hewlett, Elisha Taylor, Sr., Martin Manly, David Stow, / 
Johann Noah, Asa Truesdale, Erastus Johnson, Bridsey Clark and Wells 
Clark. 

From the date of the above enumeration till 1820, the township rapidly 
settled up, and among those who came in were, to give a good heading to the 
list, Jeremiah Earl Fuller, who was six feet four inches in height, bringing two 
sons; Charles Whiting, Charles Hewlett, Marcus and David Morris, Thomas 
Barber, Thomas Perry, Benjamin Brown, one of whose sons was Probate Judge, 
another a prominent lawyer, and another a well-known physician; also, came 

26 



490 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

the Merwins, Batons, Merritts and others. From 1820 onward, emigrants from 
the East still came in till the price of land began materially to advance. Among 
those coming about this time were Harry Spencer, Jacob and Ashbel Haskins, 
Jr., sons of Ashbel Haskins, Sr. , Jared W. Knowlton and family, Ira Fuller, 
who lived to be ninety-four years of age, and a number of the Pritchards and 
Taylors. 

As soon as the surveying party under Atwater arrived in Nelson, they set 
to work and erected a log-cabin for their use whilst in the township. It was, 
of course, a rude affair, built of unhewn logs, and stood just east of the pres- 
ent house on the land afterward donated to Capt. Mills. This was the first 
human habitation in Nelson, and was erected in the early spring of 1800. 
"When Delaun returned with his family in the fall, he made considerable 
improvements in the surveyors' cabin, and put it in the best condition pos- 
sible for wintering his wife and her three young children. Capt. Mills 
afterward erected a double log-cabin, quite a commodious affair, and it was the 
admiration of the whole settlement. Asahel Mills erected the next cabin after 
his brother, and was soon followed by many others. But one of the most 
noted events of the time was the erection by Thomas Kennedy, about 1811, of 
a frame house. It was located about three-fourths of a mile north of the Cen- 
ter, and when it was finished some of his neighbors 'said that Thomas was get- 
ting too proud. The father of Thomas Kennedy was William Kennedy, who 
was ninety years of age when he came. The old gentleman was considerable 
of a drinker, and on one occasion came to his son and told him that the spring 
back of the bouse was not water but Santa Cruz rum. 

In the spring of 1804 Enoch Judson, of Mantua, married Anne Kennedy, 
this being the first marriage in the township, but the married life of the unfor- 
tunate lady was short, for in June following she became slightly sick, and 
applying to Mrs. Rufus Edwards for an emetic, was given, through mistake, 
arsenic, which caused her death. The second marriage was that of a sister of 
Anne Kennedy, Mrs. Norton, to Joseph Nourse, a lawyer of Burton. 

It has been generally supposed that Harmon Mills, son of Delaun Mills, 
born in November, 1801, was the first child born in the township, but we are 
sorry to annul that claim by stating that the reputed " previous " Harmon had 
a little girl cousin named Dianthea, who antedated him by almost a month, 
she having made her appearance on the 14th day of October, 1801. She was 
the daughter of Asahel Mills. 

The first death in the township, like the first birth, has been wrongly 
stated. A son of Col. Garrett died in September, 1804, and to this youth has 
usually been given the honor of departing the earliest, but an infant of 
Asahel Mills died a year or two before the date of young Garrett's death, as 
is proven by the Mills' family record. The first man to die in the township 
was Col. John Garrett, who departed this life in January, 1806, at the age 
of forty- six years, after a career of usefulness to his fellow-men and honor 
to himself. He left a widow, who survived him forty years, and four children 
who became honored and distinguished citizens. 

About the first preaching ever listened to in Nelson fell from the lips of 
Asahel Mills, who at the time he settled in the township had made up his 
mind to be a Methodist preacher. His sermons may have simply been exhorta- 
tions in the Methodist sense, but we have the word of Albert Mills that he 
was the earliest preacher who lifted up his voice in the township. Rev. Will- 
iam West, a Baptist minister, came in very early, probably 1807 or 1809, and 
of course delivered a sermon to the settlers occasionally, but the first church 
organization occurred in 1807, at the house of Johann Noah, the services 



NELSON TOWNSHIP. 491 

being coDclueted by Rev. Thomas G. Jones, of the Baptist denomination. Mr. 
Jones was afterward a member of the Ohio Legislature, and President of a 
bank in Wooster. Rev. R. R. Roberts, afterward a leading Bishop in the 
Methodist Episcopal Church, was a circuit rider in those early days, and 
preached every two weeks at the cabin of Capt. Mills. A preacher by the 
name of George Lane, a noted singer, came in an early day. He had a powerful 
voice and always led the singing. William West, the minister spoken of 
above, became the first settled pastor in 1809 or 1810, he having preached 
irregularly for the settlers some time before. The original proprietors donated 
him fifty acres of land. Mr. West was an excellent man and much beloved. 
He has no descendants in the township, but one of his daughters married 
Prof. Brainard, of Cleveland. The large company that came from Connecti- 
cut in lSll-12, organized a Congregational Church in 1813, all of the mem- 
bers having belonged to the same church before they came West. In 1822 the 
Presbyterians erected a very tine church at the Center, and it stands there 
to-day. Rev. Benjamin Fenn was the first regular preacher to occupy the 
pulpit, he coming there in 1823. The first Methodist Church was built in 
1832, and the first minister to preach in it was Rev. J. W. Davis. The church 
still stands in good condition at the Center. 

The first school opened in the township was taught by Hannah Baldwin, 
at the Center, in 1804. Not one of those who attended this primitive educa- 
tional institution is now alive. The next school was taught by Oliver Mills, in 
1806. He was a brother of the famous Captain, and is said to have monopo- 
lized all the "school larnin'" of the early Mills family; he was a farmer, 
mechanic, teacher and doctor, ail combined. Nelson Academy Association 
was permanently organized January 6, 1852; Charles Goodsell, D. Everest, 
David Hanners, Josiah Talbot, C. C. Fuller, Silas Clark, John Martin, A. J. 
Eldred and Albert Mills were elected Trustees. At the annual meeting, Jan- 
uary 3, 1853, W. R. Knowlton, J. W. Spencer and G. B. Stow were elected 
Trustees. C. C. Fuller was Clerk of the first annual meeting. The condi- 
tion of the township schools at the close of 1884 is shown by the following 
statistics: Revenue in 1884, $3,947.10; expenditures, $2,344.62; eight school 
buildings valued at $5,000; average pay of teachers, $36 and $22; enroll- 
ment, 88 boys and 91 girls. 

Capt. Mills for many years kept his house as a stopping-place or tavern. 
It being located on the route to the farther western country, it was very con- 
venient, especially as he always had on hand a supply of whisky and rum. 
Another tavern was kept on the road north of the Center by Artemus Bancroft. 

The first mill was erected by Col. Gari'ett, at Garrettsville, and it was the 
greatest convenience with which the settlers had been supplied, as previous to 
its erection long journeys had to be made to get their little grists ground. 
The mill was both saw and grist, and was built in 1805. 

This same year Amzi Atwater surveyed a road from his place in Mantua, 
along the south line of Hiram Township, to Col. Garrett's mill, and in 1806 
another was cut out to Aurora, westward, and one through Windham and 
Braceville, to Warren. Abraham Dyson, who came in at the time Col. Gar- 
rett did, was the first blacksmith, and had more than he could do repairing- 
guns for the Indians. The fii'st wheat raised was forty-three bushels, from 
three pecks of seed, sown in the turnip patch of Capt. Mills in 1801. It was 
threshed oiit on a sheet in the wind. An epidemic of a fearful nature pre- 
vailed in 1842, and carried off many persons. The patient would be taken 
with something like the ague, after which a peculiar fever would set in, when 
death would shortly ensue. It baffled the skill of some of the best physicians. 



492 HISTORY OF rORTAGE COUN'IY. 

Mr. Pike, the oldest man in the township, now ninety-one years, was in the 
war of 1812. Capt. Mills commanded a company at the battle of Mackinaw 
under Col. Croghatt. He was the first militia Captain, also. 

The township was organized in September, 1817, and named Nelson. 
The first Justices of the Peace elected were Daniel Stow and Elisha Taylor, 
Jr., the latter declining to serve. One of the first cases was Delaan Mills 
vs. James Knowlton, action to recover the price of a bear. Mills had a bear 
trap, Knowlton baited it, caught a bear and took it home. Mills claimed the 
bear, as it was caught in his trap. Judgment, 25 cents, awarded Mills for 
the use of trap; plaintiff and defendant to divide costs. 

Before the township was regularly organized, and while Benjamin Stow 
was Magistrate, Thomas Kennedy and Wareham Loomis got into a fight, and 
the one who was whipped had the other arrested. When the case came up for 
trial, the prosecuting witness, defendant and spectators were all greatly sur- 
prised at the decision of the Judge. He fined both parties $5 apiece, and 
made each pay half the costs. Being remonstrated with by a fi'iend of the 
prosecuting witness at the apparent irregularity of the proceeding — that it 
was not law — he replied, " I am Chief Justice of this domain, and am here to 
deal ont justice; I don't care a fig for the law." 

Another case, showing that in those early times justice, rather than the 
strict technicalities of the law, prevailed, occurred during the time Capt. Mills 
had his tavern. The accommodating Captain, as has been stated, sold whisky, 
but he forgot to get out a license. He was arraigned before the Trumbull 
County Court for selling liquor without a license, and plead guilty to the 
charge. Judge Kirtland, who had often been refreshed at the hostelry of 
Mills, remarked to Judge Pease that he did not think the defendant guilty 
within the meaning of the statute, whereupon Pease asked Mills if he could 
not change his plea. | " May it please the Court, your Honor, I am not guilty," 
promptly replied the accommodating Captain, and he was as promptly dis- 
charged. 

Many stories have not only been told orally, but have found their way into 
print, about Capt. Delaun Mills and the Indians; they have been added 
to from time to time so abundantly that one would be led to believe that the 
exclusive business of the redoubtable Captain was to hunt and kill Indians. 
According to some authorities he would shoot a couple of redskins and throw 
them on his burning log-pile, just as be would perform any other ordinary 
work; then he pursues a party of them into a swamp and dispatches half a 
dozen or so, before breakfast; again, he would kill one, put him under the 
upturned root of a tree, cut the top of the tree off, and let the balance fly 
back and thus effectually bury the brave; or again, he would stick the carcass 
of one of his wily foes into a spring, and ram and jam it down with his rifle. 
There is no doubt about the extraordinary bravery of this pioneer, no doubt 
about his skill with the rifle, and no doubt about his hatred of the red sav- 
ages, but ho was a humane man, with a loving wife and a number of children 
at his fireside, which prevented his being an Indian-slayer by profession, as 
a man of his good common sense would know that such careers are short. 
Notwithstanding the many accounts of his deeds of blood, the only really 
authentic one is that written by his son Urial, of Salem, 111., who in a letter 
dated August 22, 1879, states: "About 1803 an Indian got mad at my father 
and said he would kill him. Father was in the habit of hunting through the 
fall. One day in crossing the trail made in the snow the day before, he found 
the track of an Indian following him; this put him on his guard. He soon 
saw the Indian. They both sheltered themselves behind trees. Father put 



NELSON TOWNSHIP. 493 

his hatou his gun stock and stuck it out so that the Indian could see it. The 
Indian shot a hole through the hat, and when it fell he ran toward father with 
his tomahawk in his hand; father stepped from behind the tree, shot him and 
buried him. He told my mother and she told me. About the same time the 
Indians were in camp near the cranberry -marsh, afterward owned by Benjamin 
Stow, Asahel Mills was hunting cattle and came past their camp; an Indian 
snapped a gun at him, but the Indian's squaw took the gun away from him. 
Asahel came home badly scared and told his story. We soon saw ten Indians 
coming painted for war. They came into the house; all shook hands with 
father but the last, who uttered an oath and seized him by the throat. Father 
caught him by the shoulders, jerked him oflf the floor, and swung him around. 
The calves of his legs hit the sharp leg of a heavy table; he then dragged 
him out doors, took him by the hair and pounded his head on a big rock and 
left him. The Indians scarified the bruised parts by cutting the skin into 
strips about one inch wide; they then tied a blanket around him, put a pole 
through the blanket, took the pole on their shoulders and carried him to 
camp. They said that if he died they would kill father. While he was con- 
fined they shot Diver of Deerfield. This created quite an excitement, and the 
Indians all left for Sandusky, leaving the crippled one in camp. Some time 
after, when father was away, he came to the house in the dusk of the evening 
and asked if he could stay. Mother told him he could. She did not sleep 
any that night, believing he had come to kill us. In the morning he got up, 
built a tire and cooked his breakfast of bear's meat; he then went out and 
soon returned with the hind-quarters of a tine bear which he gave to mother, 
then bade her good-by and left. She was as glad to see him go as any visi- 
tor she ever had." He was appointed Captain of the Big Hunt in 1818. 
Capt. Mills was bitten by a rattlesnake in the summer of 1812, and it very 
nearly ended his career. Soon after being bitten the blood began to flow from 
his nose and eyes, and he became partially paralyzed. The usual remedy, 
filling the patient with whisky, saved him, but he always felt the effects of the 
terrible virus. He died April 20, 1824. 

The township is strictly agricultural, and cheese making is one of the 
principal industries. The country is rolling throughout its whole extent, but 
the land is excellent. Considerable fine stock is raised and handled, and some 
sheep and their product marketed. Originally the entire face of the country 
was covered with a heavy growth of the finest timber, and game being plenti- 
ful it was really one of the best hunting-gi'ounds for the Indians, and some 
of the Avell-known chiefs often hunted here. Big Cayuga, Snip Nose Cay- 
uga, both of whom Capt. Mills is said to have killed, Seneca, Nickshaw and 
John IMohawk, who shot Diver, were among the more noted. White hunters, 
also, more skilled with the rifle than the Indians, stalked those old woods, and 
many an adventure with bears and wolves is told of the grandfathers and 
fathers of the present inhabitants. 

A beautiful monument stands in the square at the Center, erected to the 
memory of the brave boys who so nobly laid their lives down on the altar 
of their country, and it is an honor to the patriotic citizens who thus remem- 
ber the martyrs who died that they might enjoy the benefits and glory of an 
undivided country. It cost $1,225, and was made at Ravenna. Nelson fur- 
nished 109 soldiers; twenty died and eight were disabled. 

The township is well watered with several small streams, and an excellent 
market and shipping point is afforded in Garrettsville. 

There are eight good schoolhouses in the township, besides a fine academy 
at the Center; also one Congregational Church, Rev. Fowler, pastor; one 



494 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

Methodist Episcopal Church, Eev. E. B. Wilson, pastor, and a small church 
in southeast corner of township. 

Three cheese factories are nearly all the time in operation. There are 
two general stores, one blacksmith shop and postoffice at the Center, S. M. 
Alger, Postmaster. 

Township Officers. — Trustees, A. J. Paine, A. F. Hannah, Edwin Taylor; 
Clerk, W. W. McCall; Treasurer, William J. Fuller; Assessor, Charles Allen; 
Constables, Leon Bancroft, Benjamin Paine; Justices of the Peace, L. S. 
Nicholson, Benjamin Knowlton. 

The " Ledges," as they are called, in the northern part of the township, 
have always been a noted place of report for pleasure-seekers and curiosity- 
hunters, and there is a good hotel at one of the principal points of interest 
for their accommodation. This singular freak of nature is attributed to vari- 
ous causes, but there is no doubt of their being the result of some terrific 
internal upheaval, when the fierce volcanic fires burst forth, and possibly shot 
out through the crevices that now appear in all directions, but which through 
the lapse of unnumbered ages have been mostly filled with rock and lava debris, 
pulverized in after ages to ordinary soil and sand. Curious upheavals of this 
character are to be found all over the world, but they generally occur on mount- 
ain tops, and are called in two or three localities '' the devil's back bone." 
The Nelson Ledges are well worth a visit. 

The general statistics of this township for 1884 are: Acres of wheat, 607, 
bushels, 8,802; bushels of rye, 88^from 7 acres; of buckwheat, 32 fi'om 3 acres; 
of oats, 20,155 from 603 acres; of corn, 7,603 from 605 acres; of meadow, 
3,237 tons of hay from 2,050 acres; of clover hay, 209 tons and 23 bushels 
of seed from 127 acres; of flax, 61 bushels of seed from 5 acres; of potatoes, 
11,035 from 85 acres; of butter, 67,855 pounds home-made; of cheese, 131,710 
pounds; of maple sugar, 32,222 pounds, and 7,361 gallons of syrup from 
34,402 trees; of honey, 2,115 pounds from 69 hives; of eggs, 23,862 dozens; 
of apples, 10,605 bushels; peaches, 995 bushels; pears, 44 bushels; cherries, 
6 bushels from 370 acres of orchard; pounds of wool, 11,074; milch cows, 
781; stallions, 1; dogs, 111; animals died of disease, 100 sheep, 11 cattle 
and 2 horses; acres cultivated, 4,228; pasture, 7,339; woodland, 2,621; waste, 
108; total, 14,296 acres. Population in 1850 was 1,383, including 561 youth; 
in 1870, 1,355; in 1880, 890; in 1884 (estimated), 950. 



PALMYRA TOWNSHIP. 495 



CHAPTER XXVI. 
PALMYRA TOWNSHIP. 

The Vanguard— Pioneer Daniels— Capt. Baldwin, Truman Gilbert, Arte- 
Mus RuGGLES— The Great Trail— A Noted Character— Pioneer Den- 
tistry—A Famous Trapper— An Irate F. F. Y.— "Moses Jabe" Gil- 
bert, THE Contractor — Numerous First Events — Preacher and 
Churches— Schools and Teachers— Organization— Palmyra Center- 
Diamond— Coal Banks— Business, Societies and Statistics. 

PALMYRA is one of the townships that received its first settler in June, 
1799, there being three others, Ravenna, Aurora and Atwater, with Deerfield 
following in July. It was known in the original surveys simply as Town 2, 
Range 6, and in the general drawing of the shares of the Connecticut Land 
Company fell to the lot of Elijah, Homer, and David E. Boardman, Elijah 
Wadsworth, Jonathan Giddings, Zephaniah Briggs, Stanley Griswold and 
Roderick Wolcott. The Boardmans were brothers, Elijah being the princi- 
pal owner of the township. He was one of the surveying party that came to 
the township in 1797 with Amzi Atwater and Wareham Shepherd. 

David Daniels, the leader in the vanguard of the little band of soldiers of 
civilization who settled and helped make habitable this tine township of Pal- 
myra, arrived on the scene of action June 4, 1799, and settling on Lot 21, one 
mile and a half south of the Center. This hardy pioneer was born in Grat- 
ton, Conn., and as a reward for his daring and determination in venturing into 
a country that had hardly felt the tread of a white man, and when everything 
was as wild as nature had originally formed it, was given 100 acres of land 
by the proprietors. Soon after he had made a small clearing and thrown 
together a rude cabin, he put out an acre and a half of wheat, which he cut 
the following season, and carried one bushel of the grain on his back to 
Poland, thirty miles distant, had it ground and brought it back. His wife 
was Lucinda Meigs, cousin of Gov. Meigs, of Ohio. Daniels died July 
13, 1813, highly respected by all, and much honored as the first Justice of 
the Peace of the township. He had also been a gallant soldier of the Revo- 
lutionary Army. His widow survived him till 1849, having lived to the advanced 
age of eighty-three years. They had six children: Electa, Frederick, Horace, 
Orville, Harvey W. and Almira. The first two were born in Connecticut, the 
third in Mahoning County, and the last three in Palmyra. 

Shortly after Daniels made his clearing, in the fall of the same year, 
Ethelbert Baker came in and settled about half a mile south of the Center, 
on the west side of the road, but after a few years sold out to John Tuttle, 
who came in 1805. The next spring, 1800, William Bacon came in and set- 
tled one mile and a quarter south of the Center. In 1802 Baker and Bacon 
brought out their families, and at the same time came E. Cutler, who had 
married a daughter of Nehemiah Bacon, and located two miles south of the 
Center. In 1803 Baker cleared a piece of land on the southeast corner at 
the Center, which was the first improvement in that locality. 

In 1804 James McKelvey came from Pennsylvania. Amasa Preston and 
several others came during this year. Amasa Preston was a great snake 



496 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

hunter, and it seemed to be a hereditary ambition, as his mother, it is said, 
eve a after she got too old to see them, used to hunt the " varmints " down on 
all occasions. There was an immense den of yellow " rattlers" at the " Ledge," 
in the western part of the township, and much sport was had and a great 
deal of satisfaction afforded in getting rid of the dangerous reptiles. 

In 1805 many immigrants from Connecticut arrived, among whom were several 
families who became prominent in after years, and whose descendants are 
to-day the leading people of the township. David Waller, Silas Waller, Asa- 
hel Waller and John Tuttle, Jr. , came in. The Wallers began making improve- 
ments on the southeast corner at the Center, and put up a log-house there. 
The same year they cleared a piece of land half a mile north of the Center. 
David Waller brought a number of fruit trees from Deeriield on his back and set 
them out, which was the starting of the old orchard that afterward afforded such 
fine fruit. He afterward cleared and lived on one or two other places, but 
finally lost all his property by having too much confidence in depraved human 
nature. He could never refuse going upon the bond or note of friends, and 
so lost all by their ungratefulness or inability to pay. He died in 1840. Asa- 
hel Waller lived only seven years after he settled here, dying in the great 
epidemic that prevailed in 1812. This visitation was in the form of a very 
malignant fever, and was so virulent as to bafHe the skill of the physicians 
in nearly every case. Silas Waller died in Poland. 

In this year, 1805, also came Capt. John T. Baldwin from Warren, Litch- 
field Co., Conn., bringing his wife and three sons, Alva, John and Tibbals. 
They arrived July 7, and their wagon was the second that came through by 
the " Old Palmyra Eoad," there being at the time not a single house between 
Canfield and Campbellsport. They camped at what is now the Square at the 
Center, along side of a post that had been erected to designate where the Cen- 
ter was. They then moved into a small log-house that had been built by Ba- 
ker, where they lived two months, when they moved to the farm where his son, 
Squire Alva Baldwin, now lives. Two years afterward the Captain opened a 
tavern, and in 1825 moved to Toledo, where he died. He and David Waller 
brought the first load of salt from Cleveland, the trip occupying five days, but 
the salt was worth $20 per barrel, which paid them a handsome profit, having 
cost them about $12. The old gentleman was a kind and generous man, and 
had a fund of wit and humor that always made his tavern a great place of 
resort. Many stories are told of his playful jokes, one of which is how he 
shaved a vain young fellow who had no beard, with the back of a razor, having 
lathered him carefully, and the primitive "dude" never knew any better. His 
son Alva still occupies the old homestead, and is as hearty and genial an old 
gentleman, apparently, as his father. ^ He is now eighty-nine years of age, hav- 
ing been born in 1795. He was in the war of 1812-14, although only seven- 
teen or eighteen years of age. His father, the Captain, served with Gen. Har- 
rison in the position of Commissary, which gave him his title. There is a 
rose bush in the front yard of Squire Alva Baldwin's residence that was planted 
by his mother in 1805, and it still blooms. Capt. Baldwin was one of the first 
Commissioners of the county. John Baldwin was for many years a steamboat 
Captain on the lakes. John McArthur, a brother of the wife of Capt. Bald- 
win, came in at the time the Baldwins did, and settled on a piece of land in 
the southwest portion of the township. He was a Justice of the Peace, and 
died in 1818. 

In 1806 there arrived from Litchfield, Conn., Truman Gilbert, Sr., his 
wife, seven sons and one daughter: Charles, Truman, Jr., Lyman, Mar- 
vin, Dr. Ezra, Walter, Champion and Rebecca, the latter being now the 





c 




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C^^^-5^ t// d^$U/^t^>^5^ 



PALMYRA TOWNSHIP. 501 

widow of Ebenezer Buckley, and is eighty-five years of age, remarkably well 
preserved in mind and health, and as genial, social, kind-hearted and even 
jolly, as, possibly, she was half a century ago. Her husband was in the war 
of 1812, and the old lady, some years ago, had a pension almost forced upon 
her. She retains a vivid recollection of the past, and can tell as good a snake 
story as any of her neighbors, for she lives not far from the "Ledge," and has 
seen many of the old-time yellow reptiles. Charles Gilbert, the eldest son, 
had a family of nine, and forty-five years elapsed before a single death 
occurred among them, a remarkable instance, and a fact tolerably discouraging 
to any undertaker to settle among such undying families. There is an apple 
tree on the place of Warner Gilbert that was planted in 1806. When Truman 
Gilbert was raising his house in 1806, and was being assisted by the neighbors, 
as usual, and some Indians, an eclipse of the sun occurred, which badly 
frightened the latter. They left the work, got out their bows and arrows and 
began firing their arrows up into the heavens in the direction of the slowly 
darkening sun, to scare off the evil spirit. 

In this year, 1806, also came Noah Smith, from Connecticut, who brought 
with him a colored girl, but the following year the Legislature of the State 
passed a law making it a penal offence to bring a negro into the State, where- 
upon the vigilant Trustees of the township had the audacious Smith arrested, 
and after due trial, fined; but Smith appealed his case to the Common Pleas 
Court, which reversed the decision of the eminent Judges of the lower tribu- 
nal, the court holding that laws in general, and this law in particular, under 
the circumstances, were not retroacting. 

The great Indian trail from Fort Mcintosh on the Ohio to Sandusky passed 
through this township, and it was along this trail, just north of the Center, 
that the Indians and their pursuers went after the shooting of Diver, in Deer- 
field. Brady, of "Leap" notoriety, also took this trail in his excursions 
against the savages. Nickshaw's cabin was on this trail, in this township, not 
far from Baldwin's and near a spring. 

^;. The year 1807 brought in quite a number of settlers to different parts of 
the township, but there was one man who was, possibly, more of an acquisi- 
tion in a utilitarian sense, than any who had preceded him. This was Artemus 
Ruggles, a native of Connecticut, and a large-hearted, sturdy, honest, coura- 
geous and ready-witted man, whose services in a new country were just exactly 
what were needed and desired. He was a blacksmith by trade, and as the say- 
ing goes, could make almost anything out of iron, besides being handy in 
many other ways. He made all the traps for all this section of country, includ- 
ing two or three townships, and literally every "bull plow" that the settlers 
used for years. In addition to his many other useful qualities, he combined 
that of dentistry in a primitive way. Mr. Alva Baldwin says it seemed to do 
Ruggles good to get an opportunity to extract a tooth. He would take 
hold of a fine large molar with his "turnikey, " as he called it, give the 
instrument a "yank," and sit down and laugh at the suffering patient, holding , 
up at the same time the captured tooth. He was a noted trapper, and he and 
his sons caught numbers of wolves, bears and small game. Being a strong, 
compact and active man, with the endurance of an Indian, very few could 
throw, or "out-do" him, and very few ventured to try it. He died in 1854. 

This same year, 1807, came in David Gano, a Virginian, from Hampshire 
County, and settled two and a half miles north of the Center. He was in 
character somewhat like Ruggles, sturdy and honest and as hardy as he was 
brave. He was anything but a quarrelsome man, and his motto was, "Never 
give an insult nor take one. " He was a great wolf killer and bear hunter, 



502 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

and held his native State in profound reverence. To such extent was he sen- 
sitive on this latter point that he whipped half a dozen men from " Jarse^' " 
who had dared to speak lightly of the Old Dominion. He lived to a ripe old 
age, highly respected for his many good qualities. 

The first improvements on the southwest corner of the Center were made 
by James Briggs, who came in 1807. In 1808 James Boles, from Beaver 
County, Penn., came in and made a settlement where he lived till 1813, when 
he moved to Trumbull County. His daughter Kate is said to have killed a 
bear in a fair and square fight with an ax, the wives of Ben and Gib McDaniels 
acting as umpires. In ISl-l Dr. Ezra Chaflfee settled in the township, and 
kept a tavern at the Center, where he lived till 1830, then moved to Paris. 
In 1811 came Jemima Palmer, and her two sons, Jesse and Samuel. One of 
the daughters of Samuel died of fright. As she and her father and others 
were going to church, some young cattle jumped suddenly out from the 
bushes, when the girl fell to the ground, dead. Zuhariac Fisher came also in 
this year from Pennsylvania. He was a large, muscular maa, of great 
strength of character. He died in 1834, leaving a large family. 

Jabez Gilbert, a man who was noted not only for his iron will and 
unflinching determination, but for his seemingly unlimited resources in 
accomplishing anything he undertook, came in 1811. He was a bridge 
builder as well as mail contractor and general teamster. He built nearly all 
the early bridges of the township, and hauled all the steam boilers and 
machinery for steamboats fi*om Pittsburgh to Cleveland. No one else could be 
obtained who had the courage to undertake jobs of the character that Jabez 
considered only ordinary hauling. It must be remembered that in that early 
time roads were in terribly poor condition, where they existed at all, and 
to undertake to haul by ox-team one of those immense boilers was no child's 
play. He was also engaged to carry the mail once a week in a two-horse coach 
from Pittsburgh to Cleveland. The contract was afterward raised to twice a 
week in a four-horse coach, then to three times a week, and finally a daily 
line. He was known as "Moses Jabe," from the fact that he swore "by 
Moses," and there being two other Jabes among the Gilberts. No obstacles 
could stop this old contractor from delivering his mail accoi'ding to specifica- 
tions, and when streams were swollen he would take the mail on his back, with an 
ax in hand, and go through "or die in the attempt," as he would say. His 
contract was finally transferred to the hands of others, and he left the township. 

The first white child born in the township was Emeline, a daughter to E. 
Cutler, born in 1802. The first marriage took place in 1805, and Benjamin 
McDaniels and Betsey Stevens joined their fortunes with the assistance of 
Squire Lewis Day, of Deerfield. In this year occurred the first two deaths. A 
son of John Tuttle, Sr., went down into a well to recover a cup that had fallen 
in, when he was overpowered by carbonic acid gas, and died before he could be 
brought to the surface. David Waller lost a child in August. E. Cutler was the 
first blacksmith, and opened shop in 1802 two miles south of the Center. The 
first frame house was built in 1807 by David Daniels; in the same year the 
first tavern was opened by Capt. Baldwin at the Center, and the first postofiice 
established, with David Waller as Postmaster. The first distillery was started 
in 1808 by John Tuttle, and William McKibbey, a brother of James, officiated 
as distiller, and here they turned out a fine brand of primitive " tangle- foot. " 
The first tannery was established in 1810 by Parrott Hadley, a short distance 
south of the Center. The first physician. Dr. Ezra Chaffee, came in 1810. 
The first stock of goods opened in the township was brought by Walker Can- 
field and David Waller, who occupied a building on the southeast corner of 



PALMYRA TOWNSHIP. 503 

the Center, in 1813. Joseph Tuttle, in 1820, built the first house on the 
southwest corner, and in 1824 the first frame building was put up at the 
Center, by a man with the honored name of "William Shakespeare. The first 
saw-mill was built in this same year by Parker Calvin, and a grist-mill was 
afterward added to it, in ]828, by Henry Kibler, who was then owner. An 
ashery was operated ab an early day by Jabez and Ezra Gilbert near the 
Center, and another in the northwestern part of the township by Horace Hol- 
lister. 

One of the first preachers to expound the Word of God to the settlers in 
Palmyra was Rev. Shewell, a Methodist Episcopal circuit rider, who, 
although a man of no extraordinary culture, yet had those qualities that amply 
make up for any lack of scholastic attainments. He was a man of exemplary 
piety, honest and earnest in all his works, and who left an impress for good 
wherever he went. He was very zealous, sometimes terribly emphatic in his 
gesticulation, bringing his fist down upon the Bible at eveiy word with a force 
that would make everything around rattle. It is said that on one occasion he 
told the people who were listening to him that if they did not repent they 
"could go to hell and be damned!" Several other early ministers preached 
occasionally, but it was not till October 10, 1813, that a church was organ- 
ized. At that date Rev. Nathan Darrow, a Presbyterian minister, formed into 
a congregation Noah and Hannah Smith, Jemima, Jesse and Samuel Palmer. 
In 1818 another church was organized by Rev. Andrew Clarke, a Baptist min- 
ister of Pennsylvania, and the members were William Brown and wife, Ben- 
jamin McDaniels and wife, George Pownell and wife, and Abigail Tuttle. 

The Welsh Regular Baptist Church at Palmyra was reorganized May 23, 
1862, when W. W. Davis, Morgan Reese and James Davis were elected Trust- 
ees; Shadrach James was elected Clerk. The location of the church was 
known as Soar, but commonly called Stone Chapel. 

The members of the Methodist Episcopal society met at Deerfield June 7, 
1879, when Daniel Collins, Hiram G. Spooner, T. W. Edwards, Otis Davis 
and Enoch Morgan were elected Trustees. 

The first school is said to have been taught by Miss Betsey Diver, a daugh- 
ter of Daniel Diver, and the first schoolhouse was located in the south part of 
the township. Another very early teacher was Sophia Hubbard. Another was 
John Barr, who taught the first school at the Center. Nathan Boice, or Boys, 
Mattie Ruggles and Lewis Ely were also teachers. The statistics of the 
schools of this township are given as follows: 

Palmyra Township Schools. — Revenue in 1884, $3,767; expenditures, 
^2,916; 7 schoolhouses valued at $7,000; average pay of teachers, $32 and 
$26; enrollment, 132 boys and 151 girls. 

Palmyra Special District. — Revenue in 1884, $1,454; expenditures, $851; 
1 school-building valued at $3,000; average pay of teachers, $27 and $45; 
enrollment, 55 boys and 55 girls. 

March 6, 1810, the County Commissioners issued an order setting off from 
Deerfield Township, Towns 2 and 3, with the name of Palmyra, and on 
April 2, 1810, the first election was held, resulting in the selection of the fol- 
lowing officers, in part: Amos Thurber, William Bacon, David Calvin, Trust- 
ees; David Waller, Clerk; David Daniels, Treasurer; Silas Waller, Appraiser; 
Jabez Gilbert, John Mc Arthur, Overseers; Charles Gilbert, Constable; James 
McKelvey, Lister; Truman Gilbert, J. T. Baldwin, Fence Viewers; John 
Stevens, Zebulon AValker, Artemus Ruggles, Gibson McDaniels, Supervisors. 
May 21, 1810, David Daniels and Joseph Fisher were elected Justices of the 
Peace. 



504 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

Palmyra Center. — General stores, Carson & Diver, W. W. Bigelow, W. B. 
Wilson; drag store, E. M. Evans; carriage and wagon-shop, Edgar Tuttle; 
undertaker, David C. Davis; saddle and harness, John Humes, Charles Brown; 
hotel, Bidlake House, Ira Bidlake & Son; shingle factory and tow-mill, D. C. 
Davis; steam saw-mill, W. E. Steveson; three blacksmith shops; three saloons; 
two sboe-shops; one milliner; one barber; physicians, Dr. W. G. Smith, Dr. 
L. C. Rose, Dr. B. B. Davis; veterinary surgeon. Dr. William Davis. 

Diamo/id. —General store, O. B. Mason; hardware, Johnson & Shively; 
drug and grocery, Rose & Carson; shoe store, Ralph Stevens; lumber yard, 
O. B. Mason; hotel, Harris House; Postmaster, O. B. Mason; physician. 
Dr. William Jenkins; Palmyra Coal Company, W. B. Wilson, manager, 
one shaft open; Black Diamond Coal Company, proprietor, Samuel Kim- 
berly, one shaft open; Scott Coal Company, proprietor, Enoch Filer, one shaft 
open; Hutson Coal Company, proprietor, H. D. Hutson, one shaft open. Com- 
bined output of the four shafts about 550 tons per day. It ranks with the 
well-known Briar Hill coal and was first operated in 1865. 

At the Center there is a Methodist Episcopal Church, Pastor, Rev. Joseph 
Gledhill; Congregational Church (Welsh), Rev. John J. Jenkins; Baptist 
Church (Welsh), Pastor, Rev. Edward Jenkins; Welsh Methodist Church, 
Pastor, Rev. David Evans. Also, a Disciples Church, one and a half miles 
northwest of the Center, Pastor, Rev. Linas Rogers. At the Center there is a 
fine graded school with good attendance, and seven other schools in the town- 
ship. 

A. F. & A. M.— Charity Lodge, A. F. & A. M., No. 530, was chartered in 
1883. Acting W. M., Del Ray Thomas; S. W., Del Ray Thomas: J. W., 
Charles Merwin; Secretary, W. D. Edwards; Treasurer, D. D. Carson; mem- 
bership, thirty. 

K. of P. — Diamond Lodge, K. of P., No. 136, was organized Januarv 26, 
1882. P. C. C, David Joseph; C. C, Stephen Davis; V. C. C, William 
Barkley; Prelate, Arthur Johns; M. A., Richard Davis; M. E., James Jones; 
M. F.,^B. J. Morris; K. R. S., J. C. Buckley; L G., Richard Wells; O. G., 
Davis; membership sixty-eight. 

For over fifty years thei-e has been held annually what is termed the Welsh 
Horse Fair, at which ai'e exhibited on the first Monday in May fine horses of 
all kinds. It is as much for the purpose of affording an opportunity to buy- 
ers and sellers, as for show. There are usually fifteen or twenty of the finest 
stallions on exhibition. 

Palmyra Agricultural Fair is held for two days in the fall. The present 
officers are: President, Isaac Tuttle; Vice-President, D. D. Carson; Secretary, 
S. A. Church; Treasurer, Jacob Scott. 

A good deal of fine stock is raised in the township, and the land is highly 
productive, though hilly in some portions. The Welsh, who form a large 
proportion of the population, are generally a frugal and industrious class of 
citizens. Palmyra furnished thirty-seven soldiers for the Union in the late 
war, eleven of whom fell in the service. The Cleveland, Youngstown & Pitts- 
burgh Railroad touches at Diamond. 

The general statistics of this division of the county for 1884 are: Acres of 
wheat, 857. bushels 10,-481; no rye; of oats 375 acres, 16,478 bushels; 3 bushels 
of barley: 180 acres of corn produced 1,857 bushels; 2,404 acres of meadow gave 
2,942 tons of hay; 45 acres of clover yielded 67 tons of hay and 8 bushels of 
seed; 4 acres of flax gave 32 bushels of seed; 15 acres of potatoes produced 
2,221 bushels; home-made butter, 24, 118 pounds; 9,335 maple trees yielded 
1,521 pounds of sugar and 2,498 gallons of syrup; 26 hives produced 440 



PARIS TOWNSHIP. 505 

pounds of honey; dozens of eggs, 2,298; 301 acres of orchard produced 1,073 
bushels of apples; pounds of wool, 25,476; milch cows, 333; stallion, 1; dogs, 
106; killed, 17 sheep; died of disease, 5 hogs, 39 sheep, 7 cattle and 6 horses; 
acres cultivated, 1,913; pasture, 8,756; woodland, 2,782; total 13,451 acres. 
Population in 1850 was 1,093, including 642 youth; in 1870, 848, in 1880, 
1,105; in 1884 (estimated), 1,300. 

The number of bushels of coal mined in 1883 was 1,081,101, valued at 
$91,419. During the year ending May, 1880, there were only 471,200 bush- 
els mined by sixty-six men, valued at $37,780. 



CHAPTER XXVII. 
PARIS TOWNSHIP. 



Good Land with a Bad Xame— Slow Settlement— Organization— Ciicrches 
AND Schools — Some First Events — Notable Happenings — McClin- 

TOCKSBURG AND NEWPORT— OFFICERS, BUSINESS, RESOURCES AND STATISTICS. 

PARIS was originally the property of Lemuel Gr. Storrs, Henry Champion, 
Grideou Granger and Thomas Bull, members of the Connecticut Land Com- 
pany, and is Town 3, Range 6, of the surveys. Up to 1810 it was a portion of 
Deerfield, but at that time it was placed with Palmyra and formed a portion of 
that township, so remaining till 1820, when Paris cut adrift and has since been 
sailing along smoothly on the sea of progress without her convoy. 

For many years before the truth was ascertained, Paris, or rather Storrsboro, 
as it was formerly called, had a wretched reputation, and a passage over it was 
avoided by persons ignorant of the real state of affairs, in many instances set- 
tlers to other portions of the Reserve going many miles out of their way in order 
to give the " swamps " of Paris a wide berth. It was commonly reported and 
believed by many that the entire township was one vast mud-hole, and that to get 
into it was sure destruction to wagon and team. As the country is level and the 
soil chiefly claj, in those early days, when scarcely a foot had trodden the soil, 
water would naturally accumulate in the lower sections, and it icoidd get muddy, 
the mud being tolerably deep and sticky, too ; so sticky that, as an old settler 
remarked, one had to go home and get a shovel to dig himself out of the mud 
when he got " stalled." He meant his team, possibly. It was pretty bad, and no 
mistake, but cultivation and drainage have made it second to none on the Reserve 
as grazing land, whilst all other crops are produced easily. The soil, from the 
very fact of its original damp nature, is excellent, as it is composed in part of clay 
and the residue of decayed vegetable matter. 

One hardy old Pennsylvanian, from Woodbury, Huntingdon County, ventured 
into the badly abused township, bringing his family and settling on Lot 21, on the 
20th of June, 1811. This was Richard Hudson, and he resided where he settled 
till his death, which occurred June 27, 1819, his wife having preceded him one 
month, she dying May 28, 1819. 

The old couple and their family were the only settlers till the following spring 
of 1812, when their son-in-law, John Bridges, arrived and built a house on the 
farm of Mr. Hudson. The next year John Young and John Cox, with their fami- 
lies, came in from Huntingdon County, Penn., and located on Lot 13, making four 
families in two years. 



506 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

In April, 1815, a valuable addition was made to the little settlement by the 
arrival of Chauncy Hawley and William Selby and their families from Sanders- 
field, Berkshire Co., Mass., who located on Lots 27 and 33. In the fall of the same 
year came Calvin Holcomb and family from Granby, Hartford Co., Conn., and set- 
tled on Lot 21. 

In December, 1816, Brainard Selby, Sr., Newton Selby and wife, Thomas B. 
Selby and Austin Wilson arrived from Sandersfield, Mass. Brainard Selby took 
up his residence with his son William, who had come the year before. Newton 
Selby located on Lot 40, and Wilson on Lot 39. 

In the summer of 1817 John Smith and family arrived and settled on Lot 27, 
and in the fall of the same year Justus Wilson and famil}', from Sandersfield, 
Mass., and Rufus Smith from Whitestown, N. Y., came in. Wilson stayed with 
his son, Austin, and Smith built on the southwest part of Lot 39. 

In February, 1818, Stephen Bingham, Sr., Stephen Bingham, Jr., and John W. 
Whiting came in from Whitestown, N. Y., with their families, and located on the 
northwest part of Lot 34. 

A petition being presented to the County Commissioners, and granted in the 
fall of 1820, for a separation from Palmyra and its erection into a township, 
Storrsboro became such on the 10th of November, when the first election for 
oflScers was held. Justus Wilson, Stephen Bingham and William Selb}'^ were the 
Judges, and Rufus Smith and Stephen Bingham, Jr., Clerks. The following were 
the oflScers elected : Trustees, Rufus Smith, Justus Wilson, John Smith ; Clerk, 
Chene}' V. Senter ; Overseers of the Poor, John W. Whiting, Titus Stanley ; 
Fence Viewers, iVustin Wilson, Calvin Holcomb, Jr. ; Lister, Bidwell Pinney ; 
Appraiser, Newton Selby ; Treasurer, Stephen Bingham, Jr.; Constables, Chauncy 
Hawle}', Luther Wilson ; Supervisors of Highways, Newton Selby, John 
Smith ; Justices of the Peace, Stephen Bingham, Calvin Holcomb. At this elec- 
tion there were twenty-five votes polled, and the name of the township was 
changed to Paris. 

Calvin Holcomb refused to accept the office of Justice with its multiplicity of 
duties and heavy emoluments, preferring to attend to his farm, and Squire Bing- 
ham, therefore, had it all his own way. In 1822 a suit was brought for assault 
and battery against Samuel Hudson by Jarvis Holcomb. 

In 1817 a religious event of much importance for that early day occurred. 
Richard Hudson, who was a Methodist, in connection with some others of the same 
denomination, assisted in a camp-meeting held upon his place. Quite a large 
number of persons were present, and several ministers conducted the services. It 
might be more properly termed a " bush meeting," as they are called in some 
sections, and lasted onl}' a couple of daj's. 

In 1835 the first church, the Welsh Congregational, was organized by Rev. 
David Jenkins, and consisted of the following persons : Richard Morris, Mary 
Morris, Robert Roberts, Elizabeth Roberts, William Probert, Maria Probert, 
Edward Morris, Ann Morris, John Morris, Mary Williams and Widow Probert. The 
organization has remained intact ever since, and the}^ now have a tasteful and 
commodious church edifice at the Center, which has been erected forty years. 
The congregation is large and composed almost entirely of Welsh, the services 
being mostly conducted in that language. There is a fine Sunday-school also 
connected with the church. Rev. David Davis has been pastor for over thirty 
years. Welsh Independent Congregational Church of Paris Township, at New- 
port, was reorganized and elected D. N. Evans, John Rees andfSamuel JonesNTrust- 
ees February 8, 1 850. ^ ^ 

There is a Baptist Church with a large Sunday-school, of which Rev. A. J. 
Morton is pastor. 

At McClintocksburg there was formerl}' a LTnited Brethren Church, but with 
the deca}- of that embryo city it disappeared in the general wreck, and now there 
is no society of that kind in the township. 



PARIS TOWNSHIP. 50T 

Of the early ministers who preached for the settlers may be mentioned Revs. 
Joseph Treat, Nathan Darrow, Congregational, and Revs. Robert Roberts and 
Shadrach Bostwick, Methodist. 

The first school taught in the township was at the house of Richard Hudson 
in the summer of 1819 by Miss Betsey North. It was entirely a private school 
for the benefit of the children of " Uncle " Richard, but a couple of the boys of 
Chaunc}" Hawley were admitted. The first public school was taught in the winter 
of 1819-20 by Daniel Leavitt, of Trumbull County, in a log-schoolhouse erected 
on the northwest corner of Lot 34. It commenced with twenty-five scholars. 
The present condition of the schools is shown by the following statistics : Revenue 
in 1884, $2,669; expenditure, $1,447.48; six schoolhouses valued at $3,600; 
average pay of teachers S30 and $23 ; enrollment, eighty-four boys and seventy- 
six girls. 

In 1812 Richard Hudson set out the first orchard in the township, and in 1814 
gathered some apples from it, which was the first cultivated fruit grown here. In 
March, 1813, William Bradford, of Braceville, Trumbull Count}-, married Betsey 
Hudson, daughter of •' Uncle " Richard Hudson, and Squire John McArthur tied the 
knot. In the spring of 1814 Mrs. Susan Cox, wife of John Cox, died. The first 
child born in the township was Elijah Hawle}-, which event occurred October 11, 
1815. This gentleman, who is still living, was the fourth son of Chaunc}' Haw- 
ley, who first settled with William Selby on Lot 33, but afterward moved to Lot 
27, where he lived till he died June 14, 1846. His son, Elijah, still occupies the 
homestead. The first roads established through the township were laid out in 
June, 1817, one from Palmyra, and one from Charlestown, through to Newton 
Falls. The first saw-mill was erected by Alexander and Titus Stanle}', on the 
Mahoning River, near where the road crosses it at McClintocksburg. The first 
frame building, a barn, was erected in 1819, by Calvin Holcomb, on the southern 
part of Lot 21, and the first frame dwelling-house was erected in 1823 by Gains 
A. H. Case, at the Center, and it still stands there, but was removed from its orig- 
inal place some years ago. In 1827 William Case commenced keeping tavern at 
the Center, but he died the following year, when the business was continued by 
his widow, who, in 1 832, married again. "Aunt Cretia," as she was called, was a 
very strong-minded woman, and a zealous champion of G-en. Jackson and Dem- 
ocracy. She used to say that, "Although my husband is dead, thank God he lived 
to vote for 'Old Hickory.'" In 1828 a postofflce was established and Thomas B. 
Selby appointed Postmaster. The office was in the house of William Selby, on 
the northeast corner of Lot 33. A weekl}' mail was run to Warren. A tannery 
was operated in the early times in the south part of the township by Patrick 
Davidson, and hats were manufactured by Chauncy Hawle}'. There was also a 
chair factory, a basket and pail factory, and a small foundry for making hand 
irons, flat irons, etc. 

In the year 1831 John Morgan, of Wales, came into the township, purchased 
a part of Lot 32, and erected a log-cabin. From this humble beginnrng the 
countrymen of Morgan have come in from time to time, and have so increased 
that the population is now about two-thirds Welsh. Through the inducements of 
the first settler, who wrote to the old country about the cheap lands in Paris 
Township, these thrifty people have come and gradually drained and improved the 
country till it is now one of the finest grazing spots in the count}-. There is not 
an acre that cannot be cultivated, and whilst wheat does not do very well, corn 
can be raised in abundance, but dairying is the main resource. Some of the 
finest cattle are raised here. The people are noted for their honesty, industry, 
economy and religious devotion. 

In 1835 a man named McClintock started a town on the east and west road 
near the crossing of the Mahoning, which bid fair to become a fine little town 
during the canal days, but when that water-way began to run down so did the 



508 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

town, and now, in these post-canal days, desolation reigns supreme in McClintocks- 
burg. 

Newport was also laid out on the canal about the same time as McClintocks- 
burg, flourished for a while and then retrograded, but since the building of the 
Pittsburgh, Cleveland & Toledo Railroad, in the bed of the old canal, it has taken 
an onward move, several buildings having lately gone up, and a store is about to 
be opened. 

In this year, 1835^ Isaac Hopkins came from Pittsburgh and opened the first 
store at the Center, ran it one year, and then sold out and left. In 1839 the first 
grist-mill was erected bj' two Englishmen, tWilliam Philpot/and Philip Price, on 
Lot 24, where Newport now is. ^ 

Townsliip Officers. — Trustees, H. A. Chapman, Smith Busey ; Clerk, Joseph 
W. Jones ; Treasurer, Richard Morris ; Assessor, William B. Phillips ; Constables, 
John A. Evans, T. C. George ; Justices of the Peace, \^Iichael Jones,) Edward 
Roberts. 

At the Center there is a general store kept by Samuel Evans. Miss Winnie 
Morton is Postmistress. There is a cheese factor}' near the Center, operated by 
John R. Thomas. 

The P., C. <fc T. R. R. runs across the township, and affords shipping facilities 
for the various products. Paris will be found to possess considerable mineral 
resources after the proper development has been effected. Alread}^, and in fact 
for many years past, fine quarries of freestone have been opened, fui'nishing an 
almost unlimited supply of material for building and flagging. It can also be 
used for grindstones. The township is well watered by the Mahoning River and 
its tributaries. Paris furnished forty-nine soldiers to the war for the Union, ten 
of whom lost their lives in the service. 

The present statistics of Paris Township are as follows : Acres of wheat, 
659, bushels, 7,658 ; buckwheat, 11 acres, bushels 30; oats, 69-4 acres, 21,291 
bushels ; corn, 494 acres, 2,088 bushels ; meadow, 2,188 acres, 2,860 tons of hay ; 
clover, 2 acres, 2 tons of hay and 4 bushels of seed ; flax, 3 acres, 20 bushels of 
seed and 1,000 pounds of fiber ; potatoes, 16 acres, 839 bushels ; butter, 51,011 
pounds ; maple sugar, 2,134 pounds and 1,517 gallons of syrup from 8.037 trees ; 
375 pounds honey from 32 hives ; 14,687 dozen of eggs ; 5,057 bushels of apples, 

21 of peaches and 1 of pears from 209 acres of orchard (1883) ; 16,279 pounds 
of wool ; 598 milch cows ; 4 stallions ; 88 dogs ; killed, 13 sheep, and injured, 

22 ; died of disease, 11 hogs, 274 sheep, 24 cattle and 8 horses ; acres cultivated, 
4,223 ; in pasture, 6,806 ; in woodland, 2,339 ; waste land, 65 ; total, 13,433 
acres. Population in 1850 was 1,019, including 470 youth; in 1870, 691; in 
1880, 666; in 1884 (estimated), 650. 



r-.^ 




^ -w - -*.T-*,-- V ^- 



RANDOLPH TOWNSHIP. 511 



CHAPTER XXVIII. 
RANDOLPH TOWNSHIP. 

FiKST Two Settlers— Bela Hubbard and Salmon Ward— The Tide Flows 
ON— Ward's Four Trips— Oliver Dickinson— First Deaths, Births and 
Marriages— Initial Industries— A Few Early Facts— Organization 
AND Officers— Churches and Schools— Old and Xew Incidents— The 
Hubbard Squash— Randolph Fair — Underground Railroad— Soil, 
Streams and Statistics. 

RANDOLPH, which is Town 1, Range 8, originally- fell to the lot of Col. Lem- 
uel Storrs, of Connecticut, Heniy Champion and others. Some time after 
the drawing, however, Col. Storrs purchased the interests of the other holders of 
the lots in the township, and became sole owner, he being the proprietor of con- 
siderable other property on the Reserve. Storrs was in eveiy sense a self-made 
man, having been born of humble parentage, but he had that within him which to 
so many men has been better than wealth — integrity, perseverance and fine bus- 
iness qualities. 

The first persons, other than Indians, to enter the township were the surve\-or, 
Amzi Atwater, and his assistant, Wareham Shephard. They came to run "the 
lines in the summer of 1797, and camped on a small stream in the southern part 
of the township, where the}' made their headquarters. 

Among the number of first settlers were Bela Hubbard, Salmon Ward and 
others, of Middletown, Conn. The two named, in the early part of 1797, I'emoved 
from their native State to Jefferson Count}', N. Y., where they remained till 1802, 
but not being satisfied with their first location started for New Connecticut in the 
early part of March, that year, with an ox-team and a cart loaded with flour, bacon, 
tools, etc., and landed in Randolph about the last da}- of the month named. They 
halted at a spot about half a mile west of the present Center, and made prepara- 
tions for establishing a home. The first night they encamped under a large tree 
that stood for years afterward, it being held sacred as the abiding place of the first 
settlers. Here the two pioneers made a small clearing, and with the timber thus 
cut built a cabin, finishing it the day after their arrival. This old cabin was for 
inany years a land-mark where it stood, but A-enerable things must, or rather do, 
give way before the chariot of progress. The day after finishing their cabin Ward 
was taken sick, and when he recovered sufficiently to travel he made as straight a 
streak for the East as circumstances and the roads would permit, having had quite 
enough of life in the wilderness, yet, as the sequel will show, retaining a hanker- 
ing after the fine lands of Randolph. Hubbard continued to reside where he set- 
tled for many years, but some time before his death he removed to Mogadore, on 
the Summit side of that duplex village, having attained a very advanced ao-e. 
From the time Ward left till July, about six weeks, the only white inhabitant was 
Bela Hubbard, and he used to say that it was awful lonesome to be far away from 
any habitation of his fellow man, and when the only sounds of the night would 
be the howling of the wolves, the hootings of the owls and the soughing of the 
winds through the almost interminable forests. Yet, had it not been for such 
heroic men and their heroic wives, what would this beautiful Western country now 
be? 

In July of the same year came Arad Upson from Atwater, where he had been 

27 



512 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

living a short time, he having gone there from New Durham, N. Y., but originally 
came from Plymouth, Conn. At the same time came Joseph Harris, afterward a 
prominent citizen of the county. He came direct from Middletown, Conn., and 
settled here, but removed some years afterward to Medina County. Late in the 
summer Salmon Ward, accompanied by Calvin Ward and John Ludington, arrived 
in the township after a journe}' of many hardships, having been on the ragged 
edge of starvation several days before reaching the county. They came by the 
lake shore, and after leaving the water had to almost cut their way to the section 
they had in view, the}' having chosen a route that was very little frequented. 
The following winter, 1802-03, there were but six persons in the township. 

Early in 1803 Salmon Ward returned to New York and brought back with him 
his elder brother, Josiah Ward, wife and six children. They came in an open boat 
up the lake, and suffered greatly from cold and man}' privations. During the 
summer Jehial Savage and Timothy Culver came in from Atwater, where they 
at first located. Savage was from Connecticut, and settled on the northwest cor- 
ner of Lot 57. He had a wife and five children. Culver soon after locating went 
to Canada and brought out his brother Daniel. In the fall of the same year our 
old friend, Salmon Ward, for the third time made the trip to New York, and 
brought back Aaron Weston, Levi Davis and two men named Carey and Smith, 
the latter two coming to trade with the Indians. They only remained through the 
following winter. 

In the spring of 1804 Salmon Ward started for the fourth time to New York, 
but was never afterward heard from. It is supposed that he was either drowned 
in the lake, having no papers about him to show his identity, or was murdered. 
June 13, of the same year, Ebenezer Goss left Plymouth, Conn., and came by way 
of Pittsburgh to Mahoning Count}-, arriving at Canfield July 29, having been forty- 
six days on the road. From there he went to Atwater, and in November came ta 
Randolph. He brought a wife and four children, and when he arrived had only $1 
in money. In December Eliakim Merriman, from Wallingford, Conn., came in. 
He originally, in 1802, settled in Atwater, removing afterward to Suffield and 
thence to Randolph. 

July 17, 1805, Oliver Dickinson came into the township with his family 
and purchased the improvements made by Timothy Culver. Mr. Dickinson 
came from East Gi'anville, Mass., and was one of the most useful of the early set- 
tlers. • He was a blacksmith by trade and worked at first in the shop of Ebenezer 
Goss, who had set up business shortly after coming. There were now six families 
in the township, but a number of unmarried men were also here. During this 
year Isaac Merriman, from Connecticut, x\rchibald Coon, from Pennsylvania, and 
Abisha Chapman, son-in-law of Ebenezer Goss, came in. Coon, however, soon 
moved away, but he left his name in Coon Hill. Chapman, also, afterward moved 
away. October 23, John Goss, from Connecticut, ax'rived with his family, and 
about the same time Jeremiah Sabin and his son, Abel Sabin, from Poughkeepsie, 
N. Y., located in the township. 

In 1806 Hiram Raymond and Thomas Miller, from Connecticut, William 
Thornton, from Pennsylvania, and Daniel Cross, from Vermont, came in. Ray- 
mond was a tailor, and many anecdotes are told of him and a fellow whom the 
settlers called " Bag " Jones, from the fact that he had stolen a bag. Miller became 
a Baptist preacher and Thornton went into the war of 1812, contracted disease 
and died from its effects, i^lso, came this year, Nathan Sears and his son, Elisha, 
and Rev. Henry Ely, all from Connecticut, and at the same time a queer character, 
Nathan Muzzy, from Worcester, Mass., of whom more will be found in the sketches 
on Shalersville and Rootstown. 

In 1807 Deacon Stephen Butler and Caleb Wetmore moved in from Connecti- 
cut, but in a few years left and settled in Stowe Township. Nehemiah Bacon and 
his son-in-law, Ethelbert Baker, with their families came in from Palmyra. Dr. 



RANDOLPH TOWNSHIP. 513 

Hufus Belding, from Cattaraugus County, N. Y., arrived with his family in this 
year, and remained till his death in 1854. For nearly thirty years he was the 
only physician in the township and had a very lucrative practice. From this year 
till the war of 1812, many settlers came in, among whom may be mentioned 
Nathaniel Bancroft in 1810, and Sylvester Tinker and Deacon James Coe in 1811. 
The latter was a prominent and useful man in his church, and in the affairs of his 
township and county. After the war a sort of boom struck Randolph and the 
country rapidly filled up. Some -of the best citizens of the county came in at that 
time, and their descendants are among the leading people in its affairs to-dav. 

The first death in the township was that of a man, name unknown, an assist- 
ant to the surveyors, Atwater and Shephard, who died in July, 1797. It is said 
that he imbibed rather too strongly of '• tangle foot " whiskyj and that, together 
with the heat, killed him. He died on the southern line of the township and 
was there buried. Mrs. Clarissa Ward, wife of Josiah Ward, was the second per- 
son, and the first inhabitant to die. This was in February, 1804, and there being 
no lumber in Randolph, suitable boards for acoflSn had to be procured in Ravenna 
from Robert Easton. 

The first white child born in the towriship was Sophronia. a daughter of Arad 
Upson, in the spring of 1803. The second birth was Amanda, a daughter of Tim- 
othy Culver, in the spring of 18(16. The first white male child bon°in the town- 
ship was Elisaph R., son of P]liakim Merriman, April 23, 1807. 

The first marriage was that of Bela Hubbard, the first settler, with Clarissa 
Ward. This happened in April, 180G. Mrs. Hubbard used to tell her husband 
that he had to marry her, or none, as no other girl in the township would have 
him, simply because there was no other girl there at the time. They were first 
married by a minister, but to make the knot sure, were remarried bva Justice. 
The second wedding took place June 16, 1806, and the parties thereto were Eli- 
akim Merriman and Hannah Bassett. 

In the spring of 1801 Timothy Culver took out a license to keep tavern, and 
keeping tavern in those days meant selling whisky. The Indians were large consum- 
ers of the stuff. Ebenezer Goss started and carried on the first blacksmith shop in 
1804; Eliakim Merriman opened a cooper shop in the latter part of 1804, and 
ran it for fifty years. A barrel that he made in 1815 was still in use a few years 
ago. In 1805 the first mill was constructed. It consisted of a hollowed stump 
and a pestle six feet long attached to a pole, nature's winnowing machine, the 
wind, being used to clean the flour of the chaff. Hiram Raymond was about the 
first tailor, and Thomas Miller the first shoe-maker, to settle in the township. 
Raymond invented the first washing machine that was used in Randolph. It was 
a pole suspended in a stream of water, creek or branch, upon the end of which 
pole the clothes were fastened and washed as the sailors at sea wash their clothins, 
by the action of the water. Calvin Ward and Timothy Culver in the year 1808 
erected. the first distillery. Whisky at this time was worth, or rather sold at, $1 
per gallon, and it therefore was profitable to use the grain in that way instead of 
selling it at the low price it would bring. A grist-mill and saw-mill were also 
built this j'ear, a great accommodation to the settlers, and they did a fine business, 
Josiah Ward was the proprietor, and the mills stood where Hines' mill was 
afterward built. Nathan Sears had commenced a mill on the same spot, but had 
to abandon it, as that portion of the township was not yet on sale. Josiah Ward 
also erected the first cider-mill in 1809. It was a very rude affair, beino- simply 
a trough in which was a block of wood with short poles or handspikes attached. 
The apples were placed in the trough, and the block pressed down upon the fruit 
The cider brought more per gallon In Cleveland at that time than whisky. In 
1811 Sylvester Tinker put up a tannery west of the Center. He also started a 
tavern at the same place, to which he added a stock of goods. These various 
businesses of Tinker, together with his general usefulness to the early settlers, 



514 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

made his death, which occurred in 1818, veiy much lamented. In 1817 Samuel and 
Hiram Webster erected a cloth-dressing establishment, on the creek west of the 
Center, but in a few years it was destroyed by fire. 

In the summer of 1803 the first crop of wheat was raised by Bela Hubbard 
on the northwest corner of Lot 57. He obtained his seed-wheat at Little Beaver, 
Penn., and he went ten miles to borrow a plow which he brought home on his back. 
But he was well repaid, as four acres of this new land among the stumps turned 
him out 100 bushel. He lost a valuable horse bv it, however, as the animal got 
access to one of the barrels in which the wheat was placed, and ate so much that 
he died. Milling at this time was not a ver}' " numerous " business, and the set- 
tlers had to take their wheat to Chrisraan's mill, on the Ohio, a trip occupying 
about seven days. A bachelor's club was formed about this time, the members 
of which were Hubbard, Harris, Weston, Davis and Calvin Ward. Sally Bacon 
kept house for them. There were now fifteen able-bodied men in the township, so 
they formed a military company with Bela Hubbai'd, Captain ; Ariel Bradley, 
Lieutenant ; and Aaron Weston, Ensign. In 1805 the first sheep were owned in 
the township. The wife of Josiah Ward bought nine with money she had brought 
from Connecticut. This year Hubbard and Harris raised about 1,500 bushels of 
corn, about a mile west of the Center. In 1806 three orchards were set out, one 
by Oliver Dickinson, one by Bela Hubbard, and one by Josiah Ward. Dr. Rufus 
Belding was the first physician ; he came with his family in 1807. In 1808 the 
first frame building was erected by Oliver Dickinson. A portion of the timbers 
are now in the barn of W. J. Dodge. In 1820 the first postofflce was established, 
with a weekly mail to and from, and Oliver Dickinson was appointed Postmaster. 

The petition to set off Randolph as a township was considered bj- the Com- 
missioners December 3, 1810, and authority granted to organize the towns of 
Suffield and Randolph under the latter name in honor of the son of Mr. Storrs. 

The following is the record of the first business of the new township : 

Be it remembered that on the 12th day of January, A. D. 1811, the electors of Ran- 
dolph Township assembled agreeable to public notice for the purpose of electing township 
officers. John Goss was chosen Chairman of said meeting, and Rufus Belding and Reuben 
Upson, Judges; Jonathan Foster, Clerk; Abel Sabin, Clerk, %^ro tern. 

The following are the names of the persons elected : Samuel Hale, Reuben 
Upson and Rufus Belding, Trustees ; Nehemiah Bacon and Raphael Hurlburt. 
Overseers of the Poor ; Joshua Hollister and Abel Sabin, Fence Viewers ; Thomas 
Hale, Appraiser, and Timothy Culver, Lister of Taxable Property ; Arad 
Upson, Constable ; Martin Kent, Ezekiel Tupper, Ebenezer Cutler, E. Merriman, 
A. Upson, Supervisors. Moses Adams, Thomas Hale, John Goss, E. Cutler, John 
Sabin, Bradford Waldo, E. Merriman, T. Culver, J. Hollister, Ephraim Sabin, A. 
Upson, Schoby Outcalt, David Ticknor were returned as jurors. At the same 
time Jonathan Foster was elected Justice, but did not receive his commission 
until October 10. Every person taking part in the election has been dead 
several years. The last one, Ephraim Sabin, died in 1870. Suffield was set off 
from Randolph in 1818. 

The main business of the township was transacted at an early day at the set- 
tlement of Gren. Campbell, Campbellsport, Ravenna Village not yet being laid off, 
and Akron unknown for twent}- 3'ears afterward. The road from Randolph Cen- 
ter to Campbellsport ran from the creek west of the Center to a point on the line 
between Rootstown and Edinburg, then northward. There was a horse-path to 
Canton and a trail to Atwater. There was not a bridge in the whole of what is 
now Portage County. 

The " Hubbard squash " so noted not only in the West but eastern sections of 
the country, is said to have originated in the Hubbard family of this township. 
Bela Hubbard produced from some seeds obtained in the southern part of the 
State this most desirable variet}' of winter squash. In 1805 land was worth $2.50 
per acre in the northern part of the township. 



RANDOLPH TOWNSHIP. 515 

In 1818 an epidemic prevailed in tlie form of a fever, and tlie mortality was 
so great that tlie township obtained a very bad name — '• the sickly township " — 
which retarded immigration man}- j-ears. 

When the war of 1812 broke out there were forty-four males in the township 
over twenty-one years of age. Four of Randolph's boys were in the service — 
David James, Samuel Redfield, William Thornton and Elisha Ward. Bela Hub- 
bard, who had removed to New York, was Captain of a company of men who were 
exempt from service b}' age, but they went in nevertheless. They were called 
" Silver Grays," and went out three times to protect the lake shore. Hubbard had 
six teams, also, in the service. 

The township sent 1 80 soldiers to the defense of the Union, and thirt}- of that 
number died or were killed in the service. 

Randolph was a station on the " Underground Railroad." In October, 1846, Gen. 
William Steadman, late U. S. Consul to Santiago de Cuba, made a visit to Gran- 
ville, Licking Co , Ohio. There he overtook John and Harriet, two colored fugi- 
tives, who, having bid defiance to their bonds, were cautiously threading their way 
to Canada. The General assisted them in getting to Randolph, a flag-station on 
the "Underground Railroad," Mead & Brainerd, who were carrying on steam flour- 
ing and saw-mills one and one-half miles southeast from the Center, in a secluded 
locality, employing these runawa3's, who were subsequently claimed to be the prop- 
erty of one Mitchell, in Western Virginia. The alleged owner, receiving informa- 
tion of their whereabouts, sought to recover his property. On a rainy Saturday 
evening early in Ma}^, 18-17, two men with teams and heavy wagons drove up. to 
the Randolph Hotel and engaged lodgings. Soon after were seen ten Ohio River 
boatmen in sailor dress and two gentlemanly looking young men making their 
way east on the steam-mill road. The news of their approach was quickl}' con- 
veyed to Mead & Brainerd, who at once secreted the fugitives in the attic of Mead's 
house, to which the kidnappers soon arrived. W^ith axes in hand Messrs. Mead and 
Brainerd kept the party at bay during a parley, until the citizens came in large 
numbers from all directions, surrounded the rescuing party and conducted them 
back to the hotel, where they were guarded till eai'ly morn, when they were escorted 
by the Randolph citizens to Deerfield, thence by two trusty spies across the Ohio 
River. The fugitives remained secreted, and a week later a long-to-be-remem- 
bered wedding took place, attended by scores of the best citizens of Randolph. 
After being made one these fugitives were taken to Painesville and subsequently 
landed. The two gentlemanly young men mentioned in the kidnapping party, 
proved to be the sons of the claimant. They returned home from their fruitless 
journey more than ever disgusted with Ohio abolitionists, and with exaggerated 
ideas of the vigilance and militar}- skill of the citizens of the quiet town of 
Randolph. 

The following history of the Congregational, Methodist and Baptist Churches 
is summarized from Walter S. Dickinson's reminiscences of early da3's in Randolph : 
" Before the arrival of Rev. Henry Ely no religious meetings had been held. In 
1806 meetings were held at the house of Oliver Dickinson. In 1807 Rev. Ely 
removed to Stowe, and meetings of a religious nature were discontinued in this 
part of the town. The families of Nathan Sears, who were Methodists, and 
Oliver Dickinson, who were Congregationalists, were all that were connected with 
a church until the arrival of the Bacons, E. Cutler and E. Baker in the southwest 
part of the township. Soon afterward there was considerable religious excite- 
ment in that neighborhood, and a Methodist class was formed. It was broken up 
by the removal of these families from town, and no record remains, so far as is 
known, of this organization. At the organization of the Congregational Church 
in Rootstown, Oliver Dickinson and wife joined by letter from the church in East 
Granville, Mass. Sylvester Tinker, although not a member of any church, was 
pained by the absence of the religious privileges of the East, and seeing the effect 



516 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

of such a condition of affairs, said to himself ' I cannot bear it,' and appointed 
a religious meeting in the old log-schoolhouse which was near the Little Cu3'ahoga 
River. It was well attended. Mr. Tinker opened the meeting, led in the singing, 
led in prayer and read a sermon. The meeting was so successful that another 
was appointed. In 1811 there was a revival and a number of conversions, and 
finally a church was organized. At one time, when holding a meeting in the house 
of Oliver Dickinson, the room being crowded, the floOr gave wa}', scaring a good 
many and injuring, slightl}-, but few. The Congregational Church was organized 
July 5, 1812. The meeting was held at the house of Oliver Dickinson in the 
forenoon and in the barn in the afternoon. Rev. John Seward officiated. The 
following persons were members of the church at the organization : Deacon 
James Coe, Oliver Dickinson and wife, Richard Rogers and wife, Mrs. Eunice 
Culver, Mrs. Alvira Dickinson, Sylvester Tinker, Walter Dickinson, Jesse Dick- 
inson, Miss Betsy Stow and Mrs. Statira Bancroft. In November Mrs. Louisa 
Dickinson, Mrs. Charit}' Bancroft and 0. C. Dickinson united with the church, 
making a membership of fifteen at the close of the year. There were no more 
additions to the church until 1818, when Deacon Festus Spellman and wdfe, Mrs. 
Roxy Dickinson and William Jones united with it. The death of Mr. Tinker and 
Deacon Spellman was a severe blow to this weak church, which within eighteen 
da3-s lost three of its members, two of them being its active workers. For a time 
Rev. Caleb Pitkin, of Charlestown, preached for the church once in four weeks. 
After the completion of the frame schoolhouse at the Center meetings were held 
in it. In 1814 a Methodist class was farmed by Rev. Ira Edd}-, of persons living 
in the southeast part of Rootstown and the north part of this township. They 
met on week da3'S, when supplied b}' circuit preachers, at private dwelling-houses. 
Nathan Sears and wife, Samuel Redfield and wife, Grandison Ferris and wife and 
Mrs. Nancy Coe, wife of Deacon James Coe, were the members of the class that 
lived in this township. 

In 1819 the Baptist Church was organized with twelve members. Deacon 
William Churchill and wife, Deacon Calvin Rawson and wife, Eben Smith and 
wife, Mrs. Josiah Ward and Philo Beach were the onl}- members living in this 
township at the time of the organization. Whenever any one of the religious 
societies held a meeting at the schoolhouse it was attended b}' the members of the 
other religious denominations as well as by its own members. If no minister was 
there, some one read a sermon. In consequence of a revival in December, 1821, 
there was an addition to the Congregational Church of eleven members ; four by 
letter and seven by profession. One who then joined b}' profession (Alpheus 
Dickinson) is still a member. Soon after the revival a Sabbath-school was organ- 
ized by members of the Congregational and Baptist Churches. Deacon Churchill 
and 0. C. Dickinson were active workers in its organization." 

In 1832 the Congregationalists erected a church, and the year following the 
Methodists built their first house of worship. 

The Disciples Church was organized in 1828 out of the Methodist, Baptist 
and Congregational societies, and in 1860 erected a house of woi'ship. Their 
new church at Randolph Center was erected in 188-1 and completed in the spring 
of 1885. This is a neat edifice among the neat homes of this pretty village. 

The German Reformed Church was founded in the township at an early day, 
and in 1857 the memliers of this societ}- erected a house of woi'ship. 

St. Joseph's Catholic Church of Randolph, founded in 1829 by the Germans, 
was regularly organized by Rev. Victor Housner in 1865, and a church building was 
erected the same year. Rev. Matthias Wertz was the first priest, in 1838, and took 
charge of the mission, its log church and parochial houses. Rev. B. A. Shorb 
succeeded. Bishop Henni was here as a priest from 1840 to 1844. John Nepo- 
muck was also here in 1841, then Rev. Father Hoffman in 1844. Dr. Joseph 
Sadoc, a Spaniard, came in 1850 ; he was afterward Archbishop of California. 



RANDOLPH TOWNSHIP. 517 

Kev. Jos. Cheney and Rev. McGrlogan followed. Rev. Salasius Bruner came in 
August, 1844, then Father Howard pro tern., then Peter Anton Capedes. Rev. 
John Vanderbrock and Rev. John Witmer came in 1845. Jacob Ruigley came in 
1847. Rev. John Hackspill came in 1857 and remained until 1861, when Father 
Housner and Father Herbstrick came. Father Kahn came in 1869, and was suc- 
ceeded by Father Nicholas Kirch in March, 1875. The congregation numbers 900 
souls, of whom 700 were communicants in 1884. This parish supports a large 
school of seventy- children, and another school southeast of Randolph Center of 
twenty children. The value of property is $22,000. 

In the summer of 1805 the members of the Bachelors' Club, some six or seven 
young men, built a schoolbouse, a small building of logs, with " puncheon 
floor, slab seats and greased paper windows," and engaged Miss Laura Ely as 
teacher. The house stood west of the bridge over the creek, on the north side of 
the road. As part pay for Miss Ely's services they made her a large rocking chair. 
This was the first school and schoolhouse in the township. In the winter of 1807- 
08 a school was taught by Abel Sabin, from Poughkeepsie, N. Y., and in 1810 
Dr. Belding and Samuel Redfield taught school during the winter season. In 
1812-13 a frame schoolhouse was erected at the Center. The condition of the 
schools at present is given in the following statistical review : 

Township Schools. — Revenue in 1884, $2,860 ; expenditures, $1,904 ; ten 
•schoolhouses valued at $7,000 ; pay of teachers, $37 and $22 per month ; enroll- 
ment, 146 boys and 120 girls. 

Randolph Special District. — Revenue in 1884, $2,677 ; expenditures, $2,266 ; 
one schoolhouse valued at $5,000 ; average pay of teachers, $24 and $55 ; enroll- 
ment, 54 boys and 70 girls. 

Randolph Agricultural Society was reorganized September 21, 1871, with W. 
H. Bettes. H. D. Smalle}-, A. L. Breach, H. B. Fenton, Simon Perkins, Alvah Upson, 
W. Brockett, George Brockett, H. Morse, C. W. Barton, D. Dibble, Frank S. 
Myers, G. W. Bettes, Thomas Gorby and George Austin. The object was the 
■encouragement of agriculture. 

Randolph sustains a fair that would be a credit to the county. It is largely 
attended, and its exhibits are numerous and fine, very liberal premiums being 
offered for the best of everything raised on a farm, whilst its sporting events are 
looked forward to with much interest. The season of 1884 the twenty-second 
annual fair of the society was held, and the attendance was extremely large. The 
oflBcers were : S. Perkins, President; A. Bancroft, Vice-President; Dr. G. 0. Frazer 
Secretary ; W. Bettes, Treasurer ; J. C. Brainerd, Superintendent of Grounds ; C. 
Bettes, Superintendent of Buildings ; B. F. W. Price, Marshal ; J. Y. Johnson, 
€hief of Police. 

The Randolph Mill Company's flouring and feed mills were founded about 
sixteen years ago. The present owners are Dr. Bettes, James Sabin and George 
Dodge. This is the same mill which was moved from Campbellsport, extended, 
new machinery added, and rendered of a capacit}^ of fifty barrels per day and 
16,000 bushels of chop -feed. The water-power is taken from Congress, seven 
miles distant. This, together with a thirty horse-power engine, insures a motive 
power at all times. Three turbine wheels, four run of buhrs, etc., form the machinery. 
This industry employ's five men the 3'ear round. The Randolph cider-mills are 
carried on by Adelman 0. Keller, just south of the Center. A saw-mill is operated 
by the same machinery. A planing-mill is owned b}- Bentley & Simmerson. Its 
location is near the saw-mill. A cheese factory east of the Center forms an 
important industry. 

Randolph filled up rapidly after the war of 1812-14, the soil being very pro- 
ductive and finely adapted to wheat ; that on the west side of the Little Cuyahoga 
River, which flows into the township on the southern border and passes northwardly 
entirely across the county, being of a sandy nature, while that 'on the east of 



518 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

this stream is loamy and well adapted to gi-ass ; on the west oak timber abounds, 
and on the east beech and maple. 

The citizens of Randolph have always been noted for their progressive spirit, 
and have taken front rank in temperance, moralit}', education and religion. Origi- 
nally the population was almost exclusively from the New England States, but 
about 1850 a number of French and Grermans came in, and they have so steadily 
increased that at the present time the population of the west half is largely for- 
eign, contrasting strongl}'^ with the eastern. Together, these two varieties make 
up the most populous spot in the county, with two exceptions. 

The statistics of Randolph are as follows: Acres of wheat, 2,419, bushels, 
41,466 ; of buckwheat, 3, bushels, 48 ; oats, 1,220, bushels, 49,069 ; barley, 7, 
bushels, 113 ; corn, 747, bushels, 19,082 ; meadow, 1,700, tons of hay, 2,529 ; 
clover, 638 ; tons of hay, 772 ; bushels of seed, 806 ; flax, 3 acres, bushels of 
seed, 3; potatoes, 191 acres, 21,647 bushels; pounds of butter, 64,391 home- 
made, and 15,500 factory ; maple sugar, 1,347 pounds, and 4,563 gallons syrup 
from 19,471 trees ; 2,500 pounds honey from 102 hives; 32,424 dozens of eggs ; 
500 pounds of grapes and 20 gallons of wine from ^ acre vineyard ; 21,014 bush- 
els of apples, 258 of peaches, 68 of pears and one of cherries from 552 acres of 
orchard; 13,041 pounds of wool ; 731 milch cows; 1 stallion; 121 dogs; died 
of disease, 21 hogs, 155 sheep, 25 cattle and 17 horses ; acres under cultivation, 
10,407 ; in pasture, 2,645 ; woodland, 2,488 ; waste, 103 ; total, 15,643 acres. 
Population in 1850 was 1,736, including 845 youth; in 1870, 1,564; in 1880, 
1,684 ; in 1884 (estimated), 1,750. 



CHAPTER XXIX. 
RAVENNA TOWNSHIP AND CITY 

Original Propkietoes — The Pioneers — First Cabin— Benjamin Tappan — 
First Birth and Death— Primitive Mills— The Village Site in 1806— A 
Threshing Machine— Laying Out of the Village— First Building— Old 
Burying Ground— Schools and Scholars— First Court House and Jail 
— Becipe for Clearing off Stumps— Two Old Structures— An Incident 
OF 1812 — Pen Picture of Primitive Ravenna— John Brown's Father 
—Jesse Grant's Tannery— Some Noted Settlers— Some Early Facts— 
T"\vo Notable Raisings— First Sunday-School— Sundry Items— Early 
Merchants— A School Needed— First School Meeting— Growth of the 
City — Incorporation — Industries — Banks and Bankers — Pioneer 
Preachers on Religion— First Congregational Church, and Rev. C. B. 
Storrs— Methodist Episcopal Church— Disciples Church — Universalist 
Church— Church of the Immaculate Conception— Episcopal Church- 
Secret AND OTHER SOCIETIES— STATISTICS. 

RAVENNA, Town 3, Range 8, at the original drawing of the lands of the 
Connecticut Land Company, fell to the lot of the following parties : The 
south two-thirds to a compan}^ at Suffleld, Conn., composed of Luther Loomis, 
Ephraim Robbins and Calvin Austin ; the northern third to Stephen W. Jones, of 
Stockbridge, and Nathaniel Patch, of Boston. September 2, 1798, Loomis & Co. 
sold their interest to Benjamin Tappan; November 1, 1798, Patch sold to John 
Buell, of Hebron, Conn., and October 31, 1799, Jones sold to Ephraim Starr and 
Stanley Griswold. 

In June, 1799, Benjamin Tappan, Jr., son of the principal proprietor, came to 
Ravenna as agent for his father, and to make a settlement. He located in the 
southeast part pf the township, and built a cabin of unhewn logs, which was fin- 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 521 

ished by the following January, 1800. This was the first cabin built in the town- 
ship and stood near the southeast corner on the farm now owned by Capt. J. Q. 
King. His second house stood on the fai"m of Marcus Heath, about one mile 
east of Ravenna. The following summer he went to Connecticut and married the 
sister of Hon. John C. Wright, and returned with his bride to the unbroken wil- 
derness to build up a home. After the State was admitted he served in the Second 
Legislature of Ohio, but in 1809, at the urgent solicitations of poli.tical friends in 
Jefferson County, he settled at Steubenville. where he remained till his death on 
the 19th of April, 1857. Judge Tappan was a remarkable man in many respects, 
being one of the most thorough scholars of his da}- ; he was considerable of a lin- 
guist, an eminent lawj'er. He was Aid-de-camp to Gren. Wadsworth in the war of 
1812; Judge of the Fifth Ohio Circuit; United States Judge for Ohio; was the 
compiler of " Tappan's Reports," and United States Senator from 1835 to 1845. 

A man by the name of Benjamin Bigsby and his family came in at the time 
Tappan came, and assisted him in clearing his place and building his cabin. He 
remained only a few months, but during this time he lost a son about twelve or 
fourteen years of age, who died from the bite of a rattlesnake, and was buried in 
the eastern part of the township, this being the first death. There not being any 
sawed timber at hand, a log of the proper length was cut and trimmed, and split 
through the center, then both halves hollowed out. and the corpse placed therein, 
forming a coffin, rude but secure. 

In the spring of 1800 William Chard located on Lot 33, and in August, Con- 
rad Boosinger, with his wife, sons George and John, and daughter Polly, came in 
and settled on the Mahoning about one mile and a half southeast of Ravenna 
Center. He purchased 200 acres of land from Tappan, cleared five or six acres 
and sowed it to wheat. Shortly after his settlement, he being a tanner by trade, 
constructed a couple of vats, and as fast as he could obtain hides, tanned them. 
This was the first tanner3^ John Boosinger, his son, then a lad of fifteen years, 
moved to Brimfield in 1816, being the first settler in that township. He lived to 
be over ninety years of age, and left a numerous progeny, his descendants now 
numbering up into the hundreds. 

In the spring of 1801 John Ward and his step-son, John McManus, came in 
from Pennsylvania, and in the following fall Alexander 3IcWhorter settled on the 
west side of Breakneck Creek, where, the following year, 1802, he erected a mill, 
which was the first grist-mill in the township, and was for a long time a great con- 
venience to the settlers, who had, otherwise, to go long distances to get their little 
grists ground. There were two other mills in the county, one built in 1799 by 
Rufus Edwards in Mantua, a hand-mill, and one in Deerfield, built by James 
Laughlin in 1801. 

In 1802 David Jennings, Sr., father of Daniel and David Jennings, came in 
from Bradford, Mass., and settled on Lot 24, and about the same time came 
Robert Eaton. Jennings and Eaton, in 1805, erected a mill on the Mahoning, 
which was the second grist-mill in the township. In this 3^ear also came David 
Moore, William Simcox, one of the Boszors, who afterward removed to Brimfield, 
and several others. 

In 1803 Henry Sapp located on the north half of Lot 21, where he lived till his 
death, at an advanced age. His wife attained the age of over one hundred years, 
when she died. About this time a daughter was born to the Mr. Boszor men- 
tioned above, and she is believed to have been the first white child born in the 
township. It is said, also, that the first wedding in the township occurred in this 
year, the parties being Charles Van Home and Phoebe Herrimon. The first school 
was opened this year, it being held in a little log-house near Tappan's settlement, 
and the teacher was his sister-in-law, Miss Sarah Wright. The pupils were children 
of Boosinger, Ward and Eaton. The school cabin belonged to Conrad Boosinger. 
The next teacher was David Root, who taught at the house of Robert Eaton in 
1806. 



522 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

In 1806 Erastus Carter moved into the township from Johnson, Trnmbull 
County, and settled on Lot 16 with his wife and three children: Ruthalia, Lois 
and Howard. The latter was born in December, 1799, and is yet living, remarka- 
bly well preserved in all his faculties, and having quite a vivid recollection of 
earl}' events. To this old gentleman we are indebted for much of the information 
herein contained, and who has set right many disputed facts in regard to the da^'s 
now remembered by scarcely any one else in the count}'. Where Erastus Carter 
settled was in the upper part of the township, on the third owned by Ephraim 
Starr and Stanley Griswold, about two miles north of Ravenna Center. Moses 
Smith came with Carter to help him put up his cabin, and was so well pleased 
with the county that he purchased 100 acres of land and moved in the following 
year, althoi^gh he had bought 400 acres in Trumbull at the time he and Carter 
settled there in 1804. In this year, 1807, Howard Fuller, the father-in-law of 
Erastus Carter, with Anson Beeman, moved in. Fuller buying Jotham Blakesle^-'s 
place, about a mile southeast of Carter's land. 

Not long after their arrival Mr. Carter and his little son, Howard, then about 
seven years old, came down to the grist-mill on the Breakneck to get a grist 
ground. They passed over what is now Ravenna City, blazing their way as they 
went, in order to get back over the same track. The old grist-mill was run by a 
man named Coosard. The mill had been erected by McWhorter in 1802. This 
old miller. Coosard, lived till he was nearl}' one hundred and two yeai's old. The 
mill-stones rested upon cob-work, and a sort of bai'k canop}', upheld by crotched 
poles, formed a roof. 

RAVENNA CITY. 

Early in 1808 Benjamin Tappan commenced the foundation of the village of 
Ravenna. He laid off a plat of land containing 192 lots, the boundaries of which 
.at present are Bowery Street on the north. Oak Street on the south, Walnut Street 
on the east and Sycamore Street on the west. The center of this plat is at the 
intersection of Main and Chestnut Streets. John Boosinger, then quite a young 
man, the fall previously " underbrushed " about two and one-half acres, the clear- 
ing comprising the present Court House square and a small space"surrounding it. 
The first building of any kind on the original town plat is thought by many to 
have been erected by Henry Sapp for William Tappan on a spot now covered by 
the west end of Mechanics Block, but Mr. Howard Carter, who is, possibly, the 
best living authority as to the original settlement of Ravenna, saj's the building was 
erected by Joshua Woodard about the spring of 1808. At any rate the little 
log building stood on the spot indicated, and a well dug at the time is now under 
the building, just a little east of the east foundation of Homer C. Frazer's store. 
The birth of the first child on the town plat, or rather who the first child was, is 
also matter of dispute. James Woodard, son of Joshua Woodard, is thought by 
many to have the honor of first appearing in the embryo town, but Mr. Carter 
says that David Jennings contended and often told him that David Thompson 
had a son born before Woodard, and as proof cites the fact that Thompson's 
son won the prize offered to the first child born on the town plat. * The prize was 
a lot offered by Tappan, and 3'oung Thompson came into possession of it at twen- 
ty-one years of age. His father built a cabin upon it soon after the child was 
born. It is the lot where the old water-cure used to be. David Thompson came 
here from Pennsylvania with his brother and married shortly afterward. His son 
was born about the spring of 1810. 

The first grave-j-ard was donated by Tappan, and was located at the southwest 
corner of the town plat, where Mr. William Holcomb's garden now is, and most 
of the graves were in the southeast corner. Here were buried David Moore, the 
first Ravenna blacksmith; Mrs. Ruggles and her son; Mrs. Smith, the mother of 
Mrs. Frederick Wadsworth ; Mrs. Patterson, the mother of Mrs. Tappan ; Jared 
Mason, the first tanner in the town plat ; Epaphras Mathews, who was murdered 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 523 

by Henry Aungst, in August, 181-i, and Robert Campbell, who returned from the 
war sick and died shortly afterward. He was the last one buried in this grave- 
yard, and a singular circumstance is connected therewith: The grave-digger dug 
the grave so that the head lay to the east, but as it was so constructed they would 
not alter it when the funeral took place. This circumstance served to identify his 
grave many years afterward, when his relatives sought the spot for the purpose of 
■disinterring the remains and removing them to Campbellsport. Cobble-stones onl}' 
being placed at the heads of the graves, and no inscriptions, the remains of 
Campbell could never have been selected from out the others, had the corpse been 
laid in the usual manner, with head to the west. 

The present cemeter}- was laid off in part in 1813, a plat of land being donated 
for that purpose by Howard Fuller, Erastus Carter, Moses Smith and Anson Bee- 
man. Fuller made the suggestion of laying out another cemetery, as the one in 
the village plat seemed to him to be too close to the dail}- walks of man. Sluman 
Smith, a lad of seventeen, son of Moses Smith, was the first person buried in this 
cemetery. He died June 9, 1813. His grave, being the first in the new ground, 
was of universal intei'est, it standing alone for some time. In 1815 Zenas Carter 
was drowned in Muddy Lake, one-half mile south of Ravenna, and was among 
the first buried in the new cemetery. Carter and Grear, both heav}' men, were 
trying the floating qualities of a new dug-out canoe, when the vessel capsized, and 
as Carter could not swim, he sank to the bottom and was drowned. 

In 1809 David Jennings, Sr., Erastus Carter and Moses Smith erected a log- 
schoolhouse about opposite where the residence of the late Mrs. Lois Judd after- 
ward stood, and they engaged Miss Achsah Eggleston, of Aurora, to teach the 
■children of the three families mentioned. Her scholars were eight in number : 
Daniel and David Jennings, Howard, Ruthalia and Lois Carter, and Samantha and 
Lucina Smith. Ruthalia Carter married Howard Judd, Lois married Lester Judd, 
Samantha Smith married Richard McBride, and Lucina married Charles Judd. The 
teacher married Mr. Kent. Miss Eggleston was very tall and stately, and the door 
■of the little schoolhouse was very low, so that, when she entered it for the first 
time, stooping, she remarked to the proprietors, "I see you have built this for 
small people, so I will have to bring myself down to their level, or them up to 
mine, which?" "Up to yours. Miss Eggleston, and we will be satisfied," was the 
gallant reply. Of all those interested in that school, fathers, mothers, teacher 
and scholars, there are but two living: Mrs. Lucina Judd, aged eighty-seven, and 
Howard Carter, aged eighty-four. This school being a success, others wished to 
share in its benefits, and accordingly a meeting was held which resulted in enlarg- 
ing the attendance, at the same time deciding by vote that grammar and geogra- 
phy were unnecessary studies. Another school was taught in the unfinished 
Court House some time during 1810 or 1811, by Thaddeus Bradley. 

In 1814, when Maj. Stephen Mason was Sheriff, he taught a school in a room 
in the Court House, and when he was off on oflBcial business the school was closed. 
The Major was a man of very versatile talents, and peculiarly- well adapted to 
the times, for in addition to filling one of the highest offices in the county, he 
■could "train" as a Major of Militia, and teach the youth. 

The school statistics for 1884 are as follows: Ravenna Township schools — 
revenue in 1884, $4,451; expenditures, $3,334; nine schoolhouses, valued at 
$8,000; average pa}- of teachers, $36 and $27; enrollment, 162 boys and 126 girls. 
Ravenna Village schools— revenue in 1884, $27,047; expenditures, $20,161 ; three 
schoolhouses valued at $50,000; average pay of teachers, $79 and $72; enroll- 
ment, 346 boys and 408 girls; number of teachers employed, 15. 

In 1810 William and John Tappan completed the building of first Court House 
and Jail. During this year a number of boys playing ball around the new Court 
House, discovered a fine buck in the underbrush, when all hands, headed by David 
Oreer, surrounded the deer and captured him alive — the last deer caught or killed 
on the town plat. 



524 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

la 1811 Joshua Woodard, who had come in from Geneva, N. Y., constructed 
a dam about a mile below the old Coosard mill which had then disappeared, at a 
point on the Breakneck Creek where the stream was wider. Here he erected a 
saw-mill, grist-mill and fulling establishment. The water set back about two miles, 
nearl}' to Ravenna Village, causing much sickness and many deaths. This state of 
affairs went on for several years, when Woodard was expostulated with by citi- 
zens, notified by the lawyers, Messrs. Sloane and Lyman, and threatened b}' every- 
bod}', but all to no avail. Heavy damages were even offered him, yet he persisted 
in keeping his disease-dealing dam intact, when one night a party went with axes 
and crow bars and destroyed the dam. He moved to Franklin. There was no 
more malaria after the dam went. 

William Tappan had a frame house put up at about where the middle of the 
Phoenix Block now is. Now, this building was erected before Mr. Tappan came 
to Ravenna, and as he was here December 5, 1809, when he signed the agreement 
to erect the Court House and Jail, it looks very much as if his house was erected 
before the one claimed to be the first, yet it is generally supposed that the house 
that stood on the Mechanics' Block lot was the first. It is x'easonable to presume 
that the way these buildings came to be in dispute is that one was a frame, the 
other a log structure, each being the first of its class. 

The first frame building iu the north part of the township was a barn erected in 
1810 by Moses Smith. Over sixty years afterward the same barn was moved by 
the grandson of the original owner, and it still stands. They put up buildings in 
those days to last. A little later Erastus Skinner, father of John N. Skinner, the 
first resident carpenter, raised a barn on the Hotchkise place, on which occasion 
Skinner made a brief speech in honor of the important event. Tom Smith and 
family came in at an early date, and occupied a small building where now stands 
the First National Bank. He was a hatter b}' trade, and the hunters would come 
into his little shop and unload their bundles of coon and other skins. A hat that 
he made nearly seventy years ago, and worn at a school exhibition, is still in the 
possession of one of the oldest citizens of the township. 

The oldest building in Ravenna City is the one on the southeast corner of Main 
and Chestnut Streets, and the next oldest is the yellow barn standing on the alley 
in the rear of Mr. Kinney's house on the corner of Main and Meridian Streets. 
The first was built by David Grreer, who came to the town from Pennsylvania about 
the time the Court House was erected, put up this building and opened the first 
tavern. He also opened a small stock of goods, and the writer hereof obtained 
this- information from an old gentleman who in 1812 watched the members of 
Capt. John Campbell's company purchase powder from G-reer, pour it into their 
horns and march away toward the seat of war on the lakes. This venerable struct- 
ure stands to-day as staunch, apparently, as any of its more modern companions. 
The other building was erected by (len. John Campbell, who at the time was keep- 
ing a tavern that stood on the four corners of Ravenna, Rootstown, Edinburg and 
Charlestown. This frame building, afterward painted a peculiar yellow, which 
made it distinctively known as the " old yellow house," originall}' stood about 
where the barber shop now is on the eastern front of the Etna House, and was. 
built with the intention of opening a tavern in it, but, soon after it was completed 
in 1812, James Haslip, from near Pittsburgh, Penn., rented it and put in a stock 
of goods, this being the first regular store opened in the township. Greer, also, as 
has been stated, kept a small stock of goods, but he made no pretensions to being 
a merchant — his business was tavern keeping. The building stood upon a ridge 
running east and west, upon which the Court House, also stood. This ridge fell off 
abruptly to the north and more gently to the south, and down its northern slope 
the boys coasted many a winter day. In 182Jr the " old 3'ellow house " was moved 
away and now is used as a barn. It was a grand building in its day, as it stood 
proudly in front of the Court House, where the county magnates would ride in and 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 525 

hitch their steeds around it and across the way at Grreer's Tavern ; for a full- 
fledged store, where 3-ou could exchange two bushels of wheat for a yard of cotton 
cloth, was of no small consequence. 

In 1812 a volunteer company was formed in this vicinity, with John Campbell 
as Captain ; Alva Day, First Lieutenant ; John Caris, Second Lieutenant, and 
Aaron Weston, Ensign. A more extended recital of Portage County in the war 
of 1812 will be found in the general history of the county, the following incidents 
being only given as illustrations of the times. The company raised by Gen. 
Campbell pitched their tents of homespun linen sheets near the house of their 
commander, and went into training for a week, the strictest military discipline 
being maintained.. They had no uniform, very poor clothing, and very bad shoes, 
but every man managed to get a rifle, a tomahawk and a butcher knife. Thus, 
with their powder horns and their bullet pouches slung about them, they tramped 
ofl" to meet the highly disciplined and well accoutred regulars of the British. 
This company was included in the cowardly surrender of Hull, but the following 
year, one day when George Barnes had a raising, Horace Burroughs suddenly made 
his appearance among the men, and gave them orders for marching to Cleveland 
in the morning. They began to make preparations, and the next day left for the 
scene of war, leaving Erastus Carter, who had a lame arm, to look after the women 
and children, and to prepare for retreat to Pittsburgh. Then came an alarm 
greater than the first. The cannonading between Commodore Perry and the 
British vessels on the lake was heard, and soon a night messenger came riding 
down through Portage, warning the people to fl}' for their lives, as the Indians 
were about swooping down upon the defenseless settlers of this section. All the 
next day preparations were going on for flight, and still another messenger arrived, 
warning the people to lose no time in retreating, but during the following night a 
horn was heard in the direction of Shalersville, and soon a horseman came dash- 
ing along the road, shouting at the top of his voice, " Hurrah, hurrah ! Perry is 
victorious ! " and the dread of a moment before fled amidst the rejoicings of the 
happ3' settlers, who made the welkin ring with their shouts of gladness. 

Mrs. Betsy (Eatinger) "Ward, widow of William Ward, states that Jacob Eat- 
inger, her father, came to Ravenna in the spring of 1804, from Poland, Ohio, 
when Mrs. Ward was thirteen years old. There were here at that time David 
Jennings, Benjamin Tappan, Robert Eaton, William Chard, Samuel Simcox, the 
first settler in Brimfield, and his son Benjamin, Conrad Boosinger and son, John 
Boosinger, John and Robert Campbell, John McMannus, John Ward, Henry Buz- 
zard, Moses Bradford, Charles Van Home (son-in-law of Chard), William Lyons, 
Jack and Thomas Wright. Henry Sapp, Alexander Walker, Robert Bell, David 
Moore, Jotham Blakesley, David Haines, son-in-law of Simcox, and Polly Boos- 
inger. Sally Wright taught the first school. 

Ten or twelve j-ears later Ravenna presents a village appearance. A man steps 
into the Seth Day store with wheat, and what does he receive for his twenty bush- 
els of golden grain ? A package containing ten yards of cotton cloth ! Dr. Isaac 
Swift is behind the counter compounding a prescription, for on one side of this 
store of Day & Swift is kept a general stock of goods and on the other, drugs. Mr. 
Day had moved in from Deerfield, and Dr. Swift, then a fine-looking single gentleman, 
of twenty-six years, had ccmein from Connecticut in June, 1815. He married in 
1818, and one of his sons, Henry A. Swift, became Governor of Minnesota, besides 
occupying other important positions. Mr. Day filled many public positions also. 

Step out into the road again. There is another store, just opened by Zenas 
Kent, on the spot now occupied b}' the Second National Bank. Of this gentleman 
it is needless to make only mention, as he is so well known that nothing here can 
add to his fame as a splendid business man and good citizen. Now from your 
position in the road look across to the southeast corner of Main and Chestnut 
Streets, and you will see a building that still stands there. It is Greer's old tav- 



526 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

ern, long known as " King's Tavern." A little east of this spot you will notice a 
loo--builcling that was put up by Joshua Woodard. Turn plumb around and 
you will see a little one-storied building, facing you. This is the law office of a 
man who was afterward known not only in Ohio, but throughout the land. Jon- 
athan Sloane occupies this unpretentious little building. Darius Lyman, another 
noted lawyer, has an office hei'e, too. Look up the street, eastward, and you will 
see the house of Almon Babcock about a block distant on the north side of the 
way, and a little westward from that point a two-storied frame house painted red, 
looms up. It was built for Mr. Tappan, by Henr}- Sapp. But here is a building 
going up. It is on the spot now occupied b}- the Empire Block. Salmon Carter, 
or "Papa " Carter, as he was familiarly known, is building this structure for a tav- 
ern ; so the one diagonally across is going to have competition. Turn partly 
around again and look westwai'd and j'ou will see a hat shop on the corner, now 
occupied by the First National Bank. It was the shop of " Uncle " Tom Smith, 
and not far from this was where Alexander and William Frazer made harness and 
saddles. 

Face again to the south ; look across the Court House ground to the southeast 
and 3-ou will see a man getting on his horse, evidently in a hurry, in front of a 
building, a frame, that stands half a block or so south of Main Street. This gen- 
tleman, a physician and surgeon, who has just been summoned ten miles away to 
see a patient who had been injured by a falling tree, a few years later performed 
a surgical operation in Ravenna, which for boldness, skill and success stands 
unsurpassed, if not unequaled, even to this day, and was considered of so much 
importance that a scientific record was made of it in the French surgical journals. 
This was Dr. Joseph DeWolf, and the operation referred to is described in the 
Western Courier of November 12,1825. It was a ca.se of strangulated hernia; 
the patient, William McLaughlin The Doctor opened the abdomen, found a por- 
tion of the intestines gangrenous, cut off eight or nine inches of the same, stitched 
together the several pai'ts, sewed up the abdomen, and the man was as sound as 
ever in a couple of weeks. 

But, take another look in the same direction you were, when Dr. DeWolf rode 
off, and 3'ou will see two men lifting something from a rude wagon. One of the 
men is a farmer and he has just sold a couple of ox hides to the other. The 
buyer is a sturdy looking young man of about twenty-three years, whose sleeves 
are rolled up, and who has on a leather apron, for he is a tanner. He will have a 
son after a while, however, who will carry his name ringing down the ages, for it 
is Jesse R. Grant, who had just gone into business with John F. Wells, on the 
now Gretzinger lots. A few years ago the vats of this old tannery were taken 
up, and a walking stick made from a portion of them now awaits the illustrious 
General at the home of E. P. Brainerd, in Ravenna. Jared Mason, who came 
from Beaver County, Penn., in 1810, started this tannery and did a lucrative 
business for three years, dying in 1813. In 1815 John F. Wells married the 
widow, and thus came into possession of the tannery. Mr. Mason put up the 
building now standing in the rear of the Mechanics' Block, which was for a long 
time the residence of Hon. Seth Day, while it stood on Main Street. 

Take another look around you and you will see a blacksmith shop some little 
distance to the east, and a few cabins dotted here and there. These are all the 
buildings in sight, with the exception of one or two other residences on Main Street. 
Keep this picture in your minds eye, and notice who now are in sight. There comes 
Amzi Atwater, one of the County Commissioners, just crossing over to Greer's 
Tavern, and there comes Owen Brown, the father of John Brown, of Harper's 
Ferry renown. Owen Brown is, also, one of the County Commissioners, 
and there is going to be a meeting here to-da}'. Here he comes on his old 
bay horse along the road from Franklin, making for the hitching rack in front 
of Zenas Kent's store, in the doorway of which stands Capt. Heman Oviatt, 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 527 

who had furnished 3'oung Kent the means to start in business. Near the Court 
House stand Sheriff Asa K. Burroughs, Darius Lyman, Prosecuting Attorney, 
William Wetmore, County Treasurer, and Ira Hudson, Clerk. A little further 
ofiF is another group, consisting of Rial MciVrthur, William Coolman, William Fra- 
zer, Orvill Crane and Calvin Pease. These groups are discussing some public 
measure, and, while they talk, cross over to G-reer's Tavern. Capt. Delaun Mills has 
just dismounted from his horse, and, cane in hand, is shaking hands with G-en. 
Campbell, while Lewis Ely, John Diver and Capt. John T. Baldwin, with Artemus 
Buggies, are discussing politics, but as they all think the same way there is not 
much disputation. Passing along the road, some toward the Court House and 
some toward the hat shop and stores, ma}^ be seen Capt. Joseph Eggleston, Elias 
Harmon, x\lpheus Streator, Col. Benjamin Higley, Daniel Dawley and Christian 
Cackler, who has been married only a year or two, Bela Hubbard, Oliver Dickin- 
son, and -but what is all that noise about among the boys down Main Street, 

near the eastern edge of the village ? Why, a cow belonging to Ira Hudson, the late 
Clerk, has mired just opposite the frog-pond in the lot attached to the residence 
of Mrs. Skinner, on the corner of Main and AValnut Streets. The cow stumbled 
off the corduroy road just about where Mr. Mertz's beautiful front yard now is, 
and the boys, who were stoning the frogs in the pond, raised the alarm. It took 
nearly all the men in the village to get the poor brute safely out. 

Ravenna was reall}' growing into importance, foi', in 1825, they had two mails 
per week from Pittsburgh, and two from Clev^eland, and one each week from New 
Lisbon, 3Iedina, Burton and Warren. James Belden came from Wells ville and 
took charge of the old tavern opposite the Court House, the one " Papa " Carter 
ran so long and so well, and named it the " Clinton Tavern." This was in May, 
1825, and Belden improved the house ver}^ much. In this same month occurred 
one of the most terrific hail storms on record. On May 18, during the afternoon, a 
rain and wind storm blew up from the southwest, which shortly turned into hail, 
and such stones fell as never had been seen here before. One of the stones that 
fell in the village measured nine inches in diameter, according to the Western Cour- 
ier, published here at the time. Many windows were broken, dwellings, barns and 
orchards destroyed, and not a fence was left standing in the path of the cyclone ; 
for cyclone it evidentl}' was. but they had not got to calling these visitations by 
that high sounding title, as yet. William McLaughlin gave notice, May 2], that 
he had leased the carding works of Stoddard & Wads worth, and was prepared 
for business. He also stated that children sent to his establishment with wool, 
should be " allowed to take their turn, and be treated like anybody else." It 
evidently had been the habit of the men to crowd out the little ones. Gen. La 
Fayette, who was in this countiy at the time, had been invited to Ravenna, and was 
expected to honor the count}' with his presence at a Fourth of July celebration at 
the Portage Summit, but he could not come — had a previous engagment for 
Bunker Hill and Boston. 

The second day-book used by Oviatt & Kent, of Ravenna, was opened March 
2, 1818, with the following entries : 

Almon Babcock. To 37 lbs. iron, at 14c $5 18 

Alanson Eddy, To 7 dollars of New Philadelphia money 

Sam'I D. Harris, To I quire of paper, at 31c 15^ 

A. Baldwin, To i lb. tea, at $2.00, 50c.; 1 pipe, 3c.; and 3 nut- 

raegs, 25c 

Giles Sutliff, To 1 lb. sugar, 18fc., and 1 pipe, 3c 

Almon Babcock, To 12 lbs. sugar 2 25 

Joseph Torrey, To 1 cake of soap, 12|c., and 1 sheet of sand paper, 

6J 18f 

William Veon, To J lb. ginger 12i 

Nathaniel Austin, To i lb. coffee, 22c.; 1 pipe, 3c.; snuff, 6c 

Joshua Woodard, To 6 yds. shirting, $3; k skeins of thread, 12^c. . 
Joshua AVoodard, To 1 pair shoes, $2.25, delivered to E. Baldwin. . 
Almon Babcock, To 1 qt. brandy 1 25 



528 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

Hezekiah Hine, To 1 almanac 06 

Joseph Torrey, To 1 pt. of oil 18| 

William Coleman, To 4 lbs. 15 oz. hops 2 46 

Jacob Stough, To i lb. tobacco, 18Jc., and spirits turpentine, 25c. 

By credit, deerskin, 99c 

Giles Woodruff, To 1 thimble '. 06i 

A barn was raised in Ravenna for Lyman Hotchkiss, June 8, 1825, in three 
hours, and notice the dimensions : It was eighty-five feet long b}' fort^-two feet 
broad, with ten bents, one of which was eighty-five feet long, the height of the 
building being in proportion. The ridge-pole of the barn was a solid and whole 
piece of timber, eighty-five feet long, a size unprecedented in the annals of barn 
raising up to that time. It still stands, one mile east of Ravenna, a little back 
from the road. 

Another and still greater undertaking was the erection on June 23, 1825, of a 
building for Cyrus Prentiss and William Coolman, but let the editor of the West- 
ern Coiirier tell it in his way : " We witnessed such a scene on Thursday last. The 
frame, timbers, etc., of a ver}^ large brick building, belonging to Messrs. Prentiss 
and Coolman, were raised. The building is three stories high, eighty-six feet long 
and thirty-two feet in width. The timbers were very heavj-, and in the morning 
lay scattered on the ground, but under the direction of the master-builder, Mr. 
Hills, the different pieces were collected, put in proper place, and now assist in 
forming by far the largest building in this place." 

In 1825 Perry & Prentiss had a fine store for the times, where the}' kept ever}'- 
thing " from a needle to a hay-stack "; so had Zenas Kent and Isaac Swift fine 
stores. Joseph Carroll made and sold fashionable boots and shoes a few doors 
east of the Court House, and Alonzo Bristol made and sold fashionable hats for 
men, but alas ! there was not a milliner in the village, and the ladies had to wear 
sun-bonnets, or their mother's " calashes," brought from New England. A beet 
was raised this year b}- Hon. Seth Da}' that measured two feet and one inch in 
length, twenty-four inches in circumference, and weighed nine pounds and eight 
ounces. Timothy Holcomb raised a potato that weighed four pounds, twelve 
ounces ; and William Forbes produced, or rather one of his hens did. an egg that 
weighed four ounces. About this time Thompsonianism, a peculiar school of 
medicine, made its appearance here, and the death of one or two patients being 
attributed to this system, the so-called " sweat doctors " were visited b}' all 
sorts of anathemas from the people. Robert Owen, the Scotch vagarist, who 
wanted to found one of his theoretical Elysiums near Ravenna, made his 
appearance, and collected a numerous following ; but when the "Auxiliary 
Owen Community " asked the Legislature for a charter, that practical old 
body " sat down " upon the project b}' refusing to grant it, and Owen went to pas- 
tures new — New Harmony, Ind., and set out his stakes. According to the pub- 
lished abstract of taxables, there was but one pleasure carriage in the count}'. 
The great comet of 1825 was visible here in November. 

In January, 1826, H. A. Brewster opened a store in a room opposite the Court 
House, Perry & Prentiss removed to their new brick building on the public 
square, and M. Oviatt took the room vacated by Perry & Prentiss. Mark Wood- 
ruff, in February, took charge of the tavern that Beldeu had been owning, and 
called it the "Ravenna Hotel." Jabez Gilbert, " Moze Jabe," put on a spick and 
span new stage coach with four horses, on his line from Beaver to Cleveland, via 
Ravenna, some time in April. Robert E. Campbell opened the first watch, clock 
and jewelry establishment in a room next door to Perry & Prentiss' store ; Lyman 
Stephenson opened a shoe shop, and William Forbes was carrying on the tanners 
and curriers' business. A reward of $200 was offered for the capture of two run- 
away slaves, Ned Branch and Bob Booth, who ran away from Washington, D. C. 
A few years later three stations^ of the "Underground Railroad" were located in 
Portage — one in Randolph, one in Ravenna and one in Hiram. 




. ^ 




RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 531 

The directory of Ravenna for 1841 gives the following names and occupations : 
Clerli of Court, William Coleman, Jr.; Sheriff' Laurin Dewey ; Auditor, George B. 
DePeyster ; Treasurer, Henry L. Tilden ; Recorder, John N. Skinner ; Notaries Pub- 
lic, John N. Skinner, Luther Day and E. Spalding ; attorne3's, Jonathan Sloane, 
Darius Lyman, E. Spalding, William Turner, Daniel R. Tilden, Luther Day, 
Joseph Lyman, Alonzo A. Skinner and Francis W. Tappan ; merchants, Prentiss 
& Whittlesey, H. L. Day & Co , C. P. & F. W. Seymour, S. Mason & Co.; commis- 
sion merchants and forwarders, Babcock & McBride ; druggists, Isaac Swift, Grod- 
dard & Hatch ; leather manufacturers, Cyrus Prentiss and John Gr^^lis ; tin and 
copper workers, Cj'rus Prentiss and John W^'gle ; cabinet-ware, Gr. Lane, 0. H. 
GritHn, A. S. Collins ; carriage builders, J. A. Clarke & Co., William Bond, Jona- 
than Minard ; physicians. Job Clark, Lyman Collins, Joseph DeWolf and John D. 
Wellman ; stage office, Hiram Collins, agent ; tavern and livery stable, William 
Ward ; tailor, William B. Matthews ; Ohio Star, A. H. Lewis, editor, R. S. Elkins 
publisher ; Western Reserve Cahmet, L^'man W. Hall, editor. 

The citizens resolved to petition the Commissioners to permit them to set up 
for themselves as an incorporated village, which was accomplished in 1853. 0. 
P. Brown was the first Ma3-or and S. R. Freeman the first Recorder. Six Coun- 
cilmen were elected March 5, 1853. The first ordinance passed was for the election 
of Marshal, Treasurer and Street Commissioners, and prescribing their duties and 
compensation. The Mayors of the city since that time are named as follows: 
Darius Lvman, 1854; Pluto B. Conant, 1855; A. B. Griffin, 1856; J. D. Horton, 
1857; Sam D. Harris, Jr., 1858; Joshua T. Catlin, 1859 to 18G2; S. D. Nor- 
ton, 1863 ; J. D. Horton, 1865; H. L. Day, 1867; 'Royal Taylor, 1869; John 
Meharg, 1869 to 1873; George F. Robinson, 1873 to 1882; E. P. Hatfield, 1882; 
George F. Robinson, 1883; N. H. Smith, 1884-85. The present officers are N. H. 
Smith, Mayor; A. E. Seaton, Clerk; A. P. Oviatt, Q. Cook, C. M. Stillson, Charles 
Merts, G. L. Horr and/'john P. Jones; Councilmen; W. T. Greundel, Treasurer; T. 
R. Mason, Marshal; S. B. Norton, J. W. Holcomb and N. H. Smith, Justices. 

The Clerks of the city from 1853 to 1885 are named in the following list: S. 
R. Freeman, 1853; H. L Miller, 1856; H. R. W. Hall, 1857; A. W. Beeman, 1863; 
J. P. Catlin, 1864; E. G. Russell, 1865 to 1877; D. B. Lawrence, 1878; and A. E. 
Seaton. 

On Januar}- 12, 1885, the question of constructing water- works was submitted 
to the people. There were 473 votes for and 217 votes against. Bonds for 875,- 
000 were ordered to be issued. The vote against construction by private enter- 
prise stood 232 for and 244 against. The large body of voters did not notice 
the latter question. 

The reservoir from which the water supply is to be obtained is known as 
"Mother Wai-d's Wash Tub." Theodore Clark, writing of this pond, says: "This 
phenomenal reservoir, situated upon a natural elevated plateau, saucer-shaped, is 
invisibly supplied with water; however, supposed to be by some unknown subter- 
ranean hydrodynamic power. It has the same invisible, subterranean outlet — 
eastward — supplying thousands of acres and hundreds of families with its never- 
failing underflow of soft water, in an area, eastwai'd, of twelve miles, on this sand 
ridge. This is a reality, based upon a careful examination made by Charles U. 
Shepard, Professor of Mineralogy and Geology, of Yale College, and myself over 
thirty years ago." 

The city has a well disciplined fire department, with a steamer, a hand engine 
and a hook and ladder company. An extensive telephone sj'stem networks the 
town and stretches away to all important points within forty or fifty miles. A fine 
Opera House, latel}' remodeled, affords a place of occasional amusement for play- 
goers, and a "stand" for peripatetic shows. Ravenna sent 275 soldiers to the 
defense of the Union and seventeen fell in the service. 

Evergreen Cemetery Association of Ravenna was organized March 9, 1849, 

28 



532 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

with the following members: Dr. Isaac Swift, Seth A. Gillett, Edward A. Atwater, 
William Frazer, Sam. Mason, Isaac Brayton, F. W. Sej'mour, H. L. Day, William 
Coolman, H. Y. Beebe, E. Spalding, J. L. Ranney, John G-illis, George Robinson, 
Luther Day, Ransom A. Gillett, Cyrus Prentiss, L. Day and John N. Skinner. 

Church Histor3^ — In the very early days there were no regular religious serv- 
ices held in Ravenna, and the settlers had to depend upon the stray crumbs 
that fell from the table of the Lord for their spiritual sustenance. Occasionally 
some hardy old Methodist circuit rider, or some missionary of the Connecticut 
Society of Hj)me Missions would come along, but their visits were very infre- 
quent, yet when the^' did come the occasion was one of great joy and satisfaction. 
The preacher was well taken care of, and if it was a Sabbath when he preached, 
the entire township would turn out to hear the word. Denomination, sect and 
particular belief were all dropped; immersion and sprinkling were not thought of, 
and the rigid Predestinarian and the absolute Free-Wilier clasped hands around the 
Altar of the Lord, beneath the overarching branches of some grand old oak, or at 
the humble cabin of the pioneer. Occasionally Rev. Shadrach Bostwick and old 
Father Shewell preached in the Court House, and afterward a minister from Beaver, 
Penn., would call every month or two. Rev. Caleb Pitkin, of Charlestown, Rev. 
Nathan B. Darrow and Rev. Mr. Seward, cf Aurora, Rev. Hanford, of Hudson, 
and Rev. Woodruff, of Tallmadge, all paid visits to Ravenna and ministered to 
the hungrj' souls of the settlers. About 1816 Seth Day, Dr. Isaac Swift and Dan- 
iel Dawley began conducting religious services, adopting the Episcopalian form. 
Seth Day read the service. Dr. Swift led the singing, and Mr. Dawley led in the 
responses. Those young men had been reared in the Episcopal Church and were 
taught to respect the Sabbath in their Eastern homes when they were boys. This 
embryo Episcopal Church, therefore, can lay claim to being the first organization 
for religious services in Ravenna. Matters went on this way for several years, 
but one day, in 1822, an event happened that shaped in large measure the future 
of the township and village. 

First Co tig relational Church. — On a Saturday afternoon, early in May, 1822, a 
traveler on horseback rode into the village of Ravenna by the eastern road, and 
hitching his horse in front of one of the taverns, applied for accommodations till 
the following Monday. As a stranger in those days, traveling on horseback and 
alone, was not an every-da^' occurrence, the identity and business of this person 
soon became known. He proved to be Rev. Charles B. Storrs, a Congregational 
minister, sent out by the Connecticut Home Missionary Society to carry the glad 
tidings into the Western wilds. He was a polished gentleman, a man of culture 
and refinement and a zealous worker for the Lord — a knight errant in the cause 
of religion, in search of spiritual adventure and to give succor to the weak. 
Becoming known to the leading citizens of Ravenna, the young minister was called 
upon by Darius Lyman and Seth Day and invited to preach the following Sunday, 
which he did, the service being so highly appreciated and the hearts of the people 
so thoroughly enlisted in the preacher, that he was solicited to remain a few days, 
which resulted in the formation of a church of twelve members, and a call for Mr. 
Storrs to become its pastor. 

A call was issued June 25, 1825, by Rev. Chai-les B. Storrs, of the Congrega- 
tional Church, for the citizens to meet in the Court House on the following Sabbath 
to take into consideration the establishment of a Sunday-school. All persons 
were urged to lend their aid to the cause, bring their children, and be prepared to 
act as teachers. A sufficient number went to the meeting and a school was 
formed, but it was a new thing — these schools on the Lord's Day — and the sturd}' 
old descendants of the Puritan fathers did not entirel}' fancy the idea, so it 
languished along for about seventeen weeks, and, November 6, closed for the 
season. Mr. Homer C. Frazer, of Ravenna, is the only person now belonging to 
the Congregational school, who was a member of that little school of 1825. 



RAVENNA TOAVNSHIP. ' 533 

The first regular pastor of the church after Mr. Storrs was Rev. Alvan Nash, 
ordained and installed in September, 1829, at which time there was a membership 
of sixteen. The other pastors in order of service were Eev. Edward Atwater, 
Rev. Nutting, Rev. W. D. Saunders, Rev. J. P. Hart, Rev. E. B. Mason and Rev. 
A. M. Hills. The present church building was erected in 1837, and the present 
pastor is Rev. Clarendon A. Stone, who began his labors August 1, 1884. The 
Sabbath-school was organized in 1825 ; present Supei'intendent, H. B. Coe. 

Free Congregational Church of Ravenna was organized under State law Novem- 
ber 12, 1852. L^-man W. Hall, Fred W. Seymour and J. B. Moll wain were 
elected Trustees, and Homer C. Frazer, Clerk. 

3Iethodist Episcopal Church.— In the 3'ear 1824 the first regular services of the 
Methodist Episcopal denomination began in Ravenna. Rev. Ira Eddy was eno-ao-ed 
to preach every four weeks, he belonging to the Deerfield Circuit. This gentleman 
and other itinerants supplied the spiritual wants of the few Methodists here at that 
time till July, 1830, when Rev. John Wesley Hill, who had preached in the brick 
schoolhouse on Prospect Street, formed a class, which was only temporary, but in 
October, of the same yeai-. Rev(^ Cornelius Jonespormed a permanent class of pro- 
bationers, who continued sei'vices and class meetings until March 31, 1831, when 
the same minister organized the class into a church organization, in a little log 
schoolhouse about two miles north of the village. Eight persons composed this 
society, viz.: Dennis Sutlifl", Edwin Bostwick, Darius Ely, Hannah and Sarah Sapp, 
Samuel Foljambe, Mrs. Eliza Foljambe and Mrs. Susan Brown. During the fol- 
lowing summer Cyrus Prentiss and wife, Ashbel Bostwick and wife, Mary Carter, 
Lucy Burnham and Pha?be Mason joined this class. At this time, 1831, Ravemia 
was included in the Ohio District, Deerfield Circuit, and Revs.'^ornelius Jones 
and the famous John N. MaflBtt were the circuit riders. 

Rev. Ira P. Eddy was the Presiding Elder of the church at this time. Early 
in September the congregation got the privilege of using conjointly with the Con- 
gregational Society the brick schoolhouse in the village, but they had it all to 
themselves, for the Congregational brethren thereafter held their meetings in the 
dining-room of Maj. Shaler's tavern, on the present site of the Etna House. The 
Sunday-school of the church was organized at this time, also. The society con- 
tinued to occupy the schoolhouse till their first church edifice was erected, it 
being dedicated December 15, 1832, Rev. Wilder B. Mack officiating. 

In August, 1832, the church received its first appointment from the Conference. 
Revs. Eddy, Hill and Horton being the preachers on the circuit, and Rev. W. B, 
Mack, Presiding Elder. In July, 1833, Ravenna was made a station, with Rev, 
John McLean pastor. In 1834 Rev. Aurora Callenan was sent as pastor, and Ir 
1835 Rev. Hiram Gilmon took charge. 

In August, 183G, Ravenna was raised from a station to the dignity of head 
center to a circuit, around which revolved Franklin, Brimfield, Cuyahoga Falls 
and Northampton. The circuit preachers were Revs. William Stevens, W. S. 
Warrello, and Isaac Winans, Presiding Elder. In 1837 Revs. William Stevens 
and E. J. Kinne^' were on this circuit, and in 1838 Revs. A. G. Sturges and E. J. 
L. Baker were the preachers. In 1839 Revs. E. J. Sturges and William F. Wilsoii 
were sent by the Conference, and in 1840 Revs. L. D. Mix and D. M. Stearns were 
the pastors in charge, and Rev. John Chandler was Presiding Elder. In July, 
•18-1:1, Ravenna was again made a station, and Rev. L. D. IMix was appointed pas- 
tor. A quarterly meeting, held in Ravenna October 31, 1841, was the initial point 
of a very remarkable revival, unprecedented in its results before or since. Rev. A. 
M. Brown, of Cleveland, was present, and during the service he and Rev. L. D. 
Mix became so warmed up by their feelings that they embraced each other within 
the altar. The act seemed to fire the audience, and a series of meetings followed, 
resulting in the conversion of a large number of persons, eight}' of whom joined 
the church, William Coolman, George Robinson, Israel Foraker, John Wait anS 



534 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

R. S. Elkins, and their wives, and Recellus Root, George Somerville, Isaac Hudson 
and Dr. Carter being among the number. Seventy-four of the probationers became 
members in full connection. 

The first building, erected in 1832, was used till 1856, when it gave place to 
the present edifice, which was dedicated with impressive ceremonies on Friday, Jan- 
nary 30, 1857, by Bishop Simpson. Thus from so small a beginning as that little 
class of 1830, has grown a large congregation of the leading citizens of Ravenna, 
with a church edifice that is a monument to their Zealand liberality. Rev. Fresh- 
water is the present pastor. 

Church of Disciples. — In the year 1827 the religious movement in which Alexan- 
der Campbell and Thomas Campbell, his father, were the most prominent actors, 
found the Western Reserve its most fruitful field of labor, through the evangelistic 
work of Walter Scott. The whole Reserve was kindled to a blaze of religious 
interest never known before. Scott never visited Ravenna in person, save to 
preach one discourse in the summer of 1830, but he had sown the seeds of his faith 
in the mind of one of his opponents, Aylett Raines, a minister of the Restorationist 
Societ}', so deeply, that Raines came to Ravenna, had a discussion with Ebenezer 
Williams, the acknowledged champion of a sect opposed to the Disciples, con- 
vinced that dought}' foe of the correctness of Scott's teachings in a four days' can- 
vass, at the end of which time they both, Raines and Williams, repaired to Sand}' 
Lake and immersed each other. This was June 1, 1828. P]benezer Williams 
immediately began preaching the new doctrine. 

March 12, 1830, William Hayden converted seven persons in the Clements 
district' in the northwest part of the township, and baptized them in the run flow- 
ing through the Clements farm. They were Thomas, Mary and Margaret Cle- 
ments, Mrs. Jonathan Stewart, Mrs. Sophia Hurlbut, Mrs. Mary Austin and Henry 
Sturdevant. Shortly afterward Marcus Bosworth came and baptized two others, 
Misses Eliza Clements and Almira Austin. On the second Sunday of May, 1830, 
William Hayden organized the little band, now numbering twent3--six, into a soci- 
ety, and the infant church was placed under the cai'e of Abijah Sturdevant, who was 
elected First Elder. Regular meetings were held in the old log schoolhouse on 
the Clements place, and from that day to the present the members of that church 
have not failed to meet on the Sabbath, with but half a dozen exceptions, when 
they have adjouraed to attend the 3'early meeting or a funeral. First Congrega- 
tion of Disciples in Ravenna was reorganized January 26, 1860, with Charles 
Judd,E. B. Reeves, Henry J. White, William Price and D. W. Jennings, Trustees, 

E. B. Reeves was Clerk. ' 

The log schoolhouse was used for the church services for a few years, when a 
frame schoolhouse was erected, which they occupied for some time and then 
removed to another schoolhouse, whence they came to Ravenna and used the brick 
schoolhouse of the village till they built their present structure in 1843-44, it 
being dedicated by Elder A. B. Green in December of 1844. Soon after the dedi- 
cation Elders 0. E. Brown and Symonds Rj-der preached for the church, after 
whom came Charles McDougal, John T. Smith, who were followed successively 
by Prof. Thomas Munnell, Joel W. James, 0. P. Miller, C. C. Foote, A. B. Green, 
J. S. Lowe, Prof. Amzi Atwater, J. L. Pinkerton; then for three months previous 
to the commencement of the ministrations of George Darsie, H. J. White and C. 

F. W. Cronemeyer oflSciated. Mr. Darsie took charge April 9, 1871, continuing 
till 1876, when J. M. Van Home became the pastor, dui'ing whose career the 
church was rebuilt at a cost of over ^9,000, and dedicated on the 18th of Novem- 
ber, 1877, Elder Isaac Errett, of Cincinnati, officiating. In 1881 M. L. Streator 
succeeded Van Home, and labored two years, when the church was without a 
pastor for nine months, but in Jixly, 1883, Elder W. H. Scott became the pastor, 
under whose charge it still is. The church is in a prosperous condition, free of 
debt and has an enrolled membership of 370. 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 535 

JJniversalist Church. — Among the early settlers there were a considerable num- 
ber of persons holding to the faith of Universalism, but they had no church edi- 
fice until 18-42, during which year they built a small one in Ravenna, and 
on November 25 it was dedicated. This church in the course of thirt}- years 
became too small to accommodate the congregation and measures were then taken 
to remodel it. Accordingly, by July 29, 1877, the building had been so materially 
repaired that it was substantially a new church, and on that date it was rededicated. 
The services opened with music by the choir, followed by Scripture reading by 
Rev. C. L. Shipman, prayer by Rev. J. S. G-ledhill, and a sermon by Rev. A. Will- 
son. In the afternoon the pastor, Mr. Willson, was installed, the services consist- 
ing of music, pra^-er and reading of the Scriptures, in addition to the installation 
rites. A sermon was also delivered by Rev. C. L. Shipman in an eloquent and 
forcible manner. The address to the pastor was made by Rev. J. S. Gledhill, and 
the address to the people by Rev. A. Canfield. The building is a creditable struct- 
ure, has a fair membership, and the pastor. Rev. Mr. Willson, is one of Ravenna's 
best citizens, he being connected by marriage with one of the leading families. 

Oakwood Chapel Sunday-school was reorganized November 11, 1883, and 
incorporated. Samuel F. Butts was Superintendent and Miss Mary Musser Secre- 
tary. G-eorge Sadler, Gr. S. Husted, H. C. Frazer, W. C. Lacey and W. H. Lepper 
were incorporators. 

This chapel is now (winter 1884-85) headquarters of the Salvation Army. 

Church of the Immaculate Conception. — This congregation was formed November 
9, 1 854, by a number of railroad emplo\-es, who removed from Earlville to Ravenna. 
As Father McG-ahan, of Akron, Summit County, had visited this small congregation 
of eight families for eighteen months previous to their removal from Earlville, the 
same monthly visits were continued by him until the spring of 1856. Father Walsh, 
his successor in Akron, visited monthl}- until 1857, when the increasing interests of 
that town and its nearer- home missions rendered it necessarj' to have Ravenna' 
attended from some other available source. About this time Ravenna became an 
out-mission of the Cathedral at Cleveland, and was visited b}' Rev. Father O'Connor 
from September, 1857, to September, 1858. He was succeeded by Rev. Father 
O'Sullivan, who ministered to his charge for some three months, when he was 
assigned to other duties. As circumstances would permit, the congregation was 
visited during the year 1859 by various priests from the Cathedral, among whom 
were Fathers Hannan and OCallahan. The latter gentleman seeing the necessity 
of a church for his rapidly increasing flock, set about raising subscriptions for 
that purpose when he was removed to Youngstown. The Catholics having suffi- 
ciently increased in number during the past five years in the Missions of Hud- 
son, Kent and Ravenna to maintain a pastor. Rev. P. H. Brown was assigned 
in 1860 to the pastoi'ate of the church at Hudson, with the two last-mentioned 
towns as out-missions. Ravenna and Kent having in the meantime acquired suf- 
ficient growth to demand the services of a pastor independent of Hudson, Father 
Brown, in 1863, was placed in charge of these two congregations. The year pre- 
vious to his permanent location at Ravenna, he resumed the work of raising 
funds, which had been alread}- begun by Father O'Callahan to prosecute the erec- 
tion of a church. Up to this time mass had been frequently celebrated at the 
Town Hall and the houses of Peter King and Bernard Kinney. 

During the administration of Father Brown the corner-stone was laid by Rt. 
Rev. A. Rappe, of Cleveland, on the 15th of August, 1862, on which occasion the 
Rev. T. P. 'Thorpe preached an appropriate discourse, and a little later on the 
completion crowned his efforts with success. The estimated cost of the structure 
was about $7,00.) To the untiring zeal of Father Brown is largely due the pres- 
ent flourishing condition of the congregation of the Immaculate Conception. Few 
can realize the amount of labor performed by this noble priest in his endeavors to 
promote the welfare of his charge. He knew no rest until he saw a fitting tem- 



536 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

pie erected in which the Hoi}- Sacrifice could be decently and worthily celebrated. 
He was frequently away from home for weeks collecting along the railroads to 
defray the expense in this, at that time, great undertaking. In his travels he was 
obliged to mingle with the poorest of the poor, and share their scanty fare and 
meager accommodations. But what would have been almost an impossibility to 
other men was to him a pleasure, so long as it afforded an opportunity to accom- 
plish the work of building up his mission. This life of privation and sacrifice 
soon told upon his once robust and vigorous constitution. Shortly after his pro- 
motion from Ravenna to Youngstown in 1872, he was stricken with paralysis, and 
died at St. Vincent's Hospital, Cleveland. The church schools (except the frame 
building erected by Father Bowles) and cemetery are all monuments to the zeal 
and labors of Father Brown, whose name is a household word, and whom none 
mention but to praise. 

The Rev. W. J. Gibbons became pastor in 1872 and continued in charge until 
August, 1874. The Rev. J. T. Carroll was next installed and directed the afiairs 
of the congregation till March 9, 1876, when he was succeeded by Rev. J. D. 
Bowles. The growing wants of Ravenna and Kent requiring a pastor for each. 
Father Bowles was relieved of Kent July 6, 1878, and given sole charge of 
Ravenna. In April, 1883 he was removed from Ravenna to Fremont, Ohio. The 
present incumbent, Rev. John T. Cahill, succeeded Father Bowles. The pioneer 
families of the congregation, and likewise those who have generously maintained 
it with their means and counsel, are Peter King, John McNamara, Edward Brod- 
erick, Michael 3IcMahon, George Jennings, Charles Murphy, Edward Breen and 
Patrick Keene. A short time after the formation of the congregation the follow- 
ing families settled in Ravenna and helped to forward the work in hand, viz.: 
Frank McGoorty, Michael Quirk, Patrick Lee, James King, Patrick Bergiu, Dan- 
iel Gary, Matthew and Thomas McTighe, Bernard and Thomas Kinney, Christo- 
pher Jennings, George Madole, Garrett Herley and Michael Donohue. Among 
the citizens of Ravenna who generously aided the congregations in their early 
struggles to obtain a place of worship, are the Hon. Luther Day, ex-Supreme 
Judge of Ohio, and Mr. Isaiah Linton, Civil; Engineer of the Cleveland & Pitts- 
burgh Railroad. The congregation at present comprises 125 families, who sup- 
port two large schools, respectively primary and grammar, ably conducted by 
lay teachers. The present enrollment is 125— girls, 65; boys, 6li. The Sunday- 
school has a membership of 130 children. The cemetery is located a short dis- 
tance outside the corporation on the southwest side of the village and contains 
five acres. When Father Cahill assumed charge of the congregation, he found it 
indebted to the amount of $1,040, but under his earnest and indefatigable labors 
this debt has been canceled, and steps taken toward the enlargement of the 
church to meet the growing wants of tlie parish. 

Grace Protestant Ejnscojml Church, Parish of Ravenna, was organized April 
10, 1865, with the following members: W. E. Smith, ^. C. Ranney, E. Spalding, 
E. S. Comstock, senior and junior, H. D. Sejmour, f. M. Jones/j. M. Kelly, P. 
Banon, Charles B. Stowe, T. J. Bailey, Charles Rogers, S. H. Ferry, L. E. Hotch- 
kiss, J. H. Ferry, F. J. Ferry, H. W. Riddle, D C. Coolman. W. L. Coolman, J. 
L. Ranney, B. J. Wells, Daniel B. Wells, Francis L. Clark, M. Stuart, H. M. 
Clarke and C. W. Brainerd. Rev. Levi L. Holden presided. Their present beau- 
tiful edifice was built in 1873-74, at a cost, including lot and fixtures, of $8,000, 
and was consecrated April 10, 1883, by Bishop G. T. Bedell. The rectors have 
been, in their order of succession, Revs. Levi L. Holden, Edward Hubbell. George 
S. Davis, T. J. Taylor, W. H. Capers, A. J. Brockway and J. W. Gilman. First 
Vestry: P. Banon, Senior Warden; W. E. Smith, Junior Warden; and E. S. Com- 
stock, H. C. Ranney, B. J. Wells, E. Spalding. Present Vestry: G. Fairchild, 
Senior Warden; A. B. Fairchild, Junior Warden; and D. C. Coolman, H. D. Sey- 
mour, J. C. Beatty, E. S. Comstock, D. L. Rockwell, E. S. Comstock, Jr., J. H. 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 537 

Jones, F. S. Comstock. Superintendent of Sunday-school, J. H. Jones. The 
late rector. Rev. J. W. Gilman, resigned November, 1, 1883, since which time the 
parish has been without a rector. 

In the fore part of January, 1826, there was not a school of any kind in 
Ravenna, although the population more than justified one or two schools, and 
business was increasing at a very rapid rate. Xew stores were starting up, some 
little manufacturing was being done, and altogether Ravenna had a "boom" with 
a full head on, that lasted several years. The great canal was being rapidly 
pushed forward to completion, the mails were increased to tri-weekly arrivals and 
departures, a good weekly paper was being printed in the village, yet there was 
no school. 

The Legislature the year previous had passed the act providing for common 
schools, so May 29, 1826, a meeting was called to be held at the house of Almon 
Babcock, where the Opera House now stands, for the purpose of taking measures 
to build a schoolhouse in the First (Ravenna) District. A house was shortly 
afterward built, and from that time to the present Ravenna has always had schools 
suitable to the necessities of all its citizens. There are two more than ordinarily 
handsome and conveniently arranged buildings in the city of Ravenna and the 
curriculum is particularly good under the charge of Principal Pickitt and his able 
assistants. Throughout the township, at suitable distances, there are comfortable 
schoolhouses with good teachers and full attendance. 

Unity Lodge, No. 12, F. d- A. M. — This lodge commenced work under dispen- 
sation from the Grand Lodge of the State of Ohio, May 28, 1810, and organized 
under charter signed by Lewis Cass, Grand Master, January 15, 1812. The char- 
ter members were Rial McArthur, Joel Walter, George Darrow, Jr., George Dar- 
row, Sr., Joseph Hart, Joshua Culver, William Throop, Timothy Culver, Gideon 
Chittenden, Jeremiah Root and Elijah Blackman. 

In 1831 or 1832, in consequence of the intense excitement in regard to the 
fraternity throughout the northern section of the country, the lodge suspended 
work. The late Gen. L. V. Bierce, being at the time Secretary of the lodge, took 
charge of the Charter of the Three Lesser Lights, the Altar and the Jewels, and 
twenty years thereafter restored them to their former places within the lodge, 
which resumed work under dispensation on the 23d day of August, 1852. Octo- 
ber 22 of the same year the lodge was again instituted under charter, to E. T. Rich- 
ardson, W. M.; E. Spalding, S. W.; C. Lawrence, J. W.; and members A. K. King, 
J. G. McBride, Ephraim Clark and Henry Beach. Upon the rolls there are 135 
members. 

Tyrian Chapter, No. 91, R. A. 31. — This chapter was organized under charter 
granted December 13, 1864, to Companions E. T. Richardson, H. L. Day, J. C. 
Beatty, Joseph Vance, M. Bosworth, James E. Wilson, W. H. Day, F. L. Sawyer 
and William Coolman. The charter was 'granted b}^ George Rex, G.". H.-. P.*.; 
Charles C. Kiefer, D.-. G.-. H.-. P.-., and J. D. Caldwell, G.-. S.-. The chapter has 
seventy-nine members. 

Richardson Council, No. 63, R. d- S. M. — This council of Royal and Select 
Masters was organized under charter dated x\ugust, 1876, to Companions E. T. 
Richardson, D. C. Coolman, D. Lindsay, A. G. Bradley, Quincy Cook. W. Holcomb,. 
C. H. Ray, James Reynolds and G. Seymour. The charter was issued by J. W, 
Courtright, M.-. L-. G.-. M.-.; 0. A. B. Senter, L-. D.-. G.-. M.-., J. D. Caldwell 
G.-. R.-. The council has twenty-two members. The three Masonic bodies own 
conjointly a fine hall, handsomely and appropriately fitted up. 

Ravenna Lodge, No. 65, J. 0. 0. F. — This lodge was chartered by the Grand 
Lodge of the Stat^ of Ohio, April 25, 18-46. The charter members were Horace 
Y. Beebe, Edward T. Tremaine, Ransom A. Gillette, James D. Watson, Henrv L. 
Tilden, James W. Clark and A. W. Bruce. The lodge was instituted May 27, 
1846, by Edward Downs, D. D. G. M. The first officers were Horace Y. Beebe, 



538 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

N. G.; R. A. Gillette, V. G,; E. T. Tremaine, Secretary, and Henry L. Tildeii, Treas- 
urer. There is a membership of something over 200. The lodge owns the third 
story over a building on Main Street, their propert}^ being worth about $3,0U0. 

Ravenna Encampment, No. 129, I. 0. 0. F. — This body was chartered by the 
Grand Encampment of Ohio, at the May term, 1870, the charter members being 
William H. Beebe, Horace Y. Beebe, Benjamin J. Wells, David E. Wells, William 
Ward, J. G. Willis and John Phillips. The encampment was instituted Jul}^ 5, 
1870, bv Robert B. Innes, Grand Patriarch of the State of Ohio. The first offi- 
cers were William H. Beebe, C. P.; H. Y. Beebe, H. P.; B. J. Wells, S. W.; John 
Phillips, J. W.; David E. Wells, Scribe, and William Ward, Treasurer. The mem- 
bership is 125 

Ravenna. Council, No. 376, R. A., was organized August 29, 1879. The first 
officers were: Regent, G. Seymour; V. R., D. C. Coolman; Past R., W. H. Beebe; 
Orator, D. R. Lawsmer; Secretarv, C. H. Griffin; Collector, W. S. Krake; Treasurer, 
B. F. Keller; Chaplain, A. M. Hills; Guide, J. H. Oakley; Warden, D. L. Rock- 
well; Sentry, A. T. Smith. The present Regent is E. M. Davis; Secretary, C. H. 
Griffin; Collector, G. P. Reed, and Treasurer, Quinc}^ Cook. Membership, fifty-nine. 
Place of meeting. Reed's Opera House. 

David Mcintosh Post, No. 327, G. A. R., was organized at Ravenna, June 14, 
1883, and named in honor of the old militia General of northern Ohio. The 
members of this post are Philo Bierce, A. D. Bishop, Hiram Bentley, S. P. Barr, 
H. 0. Barber, George N. Bissell, C. L. Bartlett, G. R. Braden, James Baxter, 
George W. Barrett, Joel Beery. 

C. S. Colter, James Calhoun, Seymour Codding, John Campbell, H. B. Coe. 
John S. Dix. 

S. R. Freeman, H. Furrv. George and John P. Frank. 

W. Gill, J. H. Goddard," William Grennell, W. S. Gibbons and D. C. Gardner. 

L. P. Hunt, L. F. Hunt and Joseph Henson. 

J. Jewell and E. M. Jennings. 

Philo L. King, W. S. Krake, I. W. Kirk and S. Kick. 

W. Lewis, John C. Lindsay. 

D. W. B. Marsh, T. R. Mason, H. H. Moore, John Meharg, J. W. McGahan, 
F. N, 3Iarvin, James Miller and C. A. Mason. 

A. P. Oviatt, J. H. Oakley and H. L. Osborn. 

L. R. Pryor, A. A. Parker, Simon Perkins and F. B. Powell. 

George F. Robinson, 0. C. Risdon, D. L. Rockwell, J. B. Russell, Peter Rich- 
ards and George E. Robinson. 

George Sadler, Robert Smith, J. C. Shreader, James Sutliff, J. J. Shreader, 
Charles Sweeney, Henry Sears, J. F. and R. W. Sapp, James Stewart, Marion Sin- 
clair, C. A. Stone and William Stowell. 

W. B. Taylor and W. D. Turner. ' 

H. J. Webber, William Wilcox, John Wilson, 0. D. Wheeler and John S. 
Walker. 

Dr. Bevington, of Freedom, was voted in a member in December, 1884, but 
died in January before muster in, 

American Health College and Religio- Medical Society was first incorporated 
December 15, 1874, for the purpose of practicing and teaching the Vitapathic 
system of health, by Prof J. B. Campbell, M. D., V. D., the founder of the system. 
The college was reincorporated June 15, 1856, when J. B. Campbell was elected 
Permanent President, Treasurer and Secretary. The names of the incorporators 
are J. B. Campbell, William Rose. J. T. Johnson, J. C. Haver, G. D. Binkley, 
T. J. Derver, W. D. Church and A. D. Howard, all having the degrees of M. D. 
and V. D.; J. E. xMahan, E. Henderson, Mrs. J. M. Flint, xAIrs. xM. E. Gile, E. W. 
Bretz, W. E. Sweetland, Mrs. M. Prav and Mrs. L. C. Bassett, having the degree of 
V. D. , 



ij^.; 




4 



^^yn-j^x/y^i^t. 



^(you^^^ 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 541 

Western Reserve Hurse Breeders Association was oi'ganized May 2, 1859, with 
the following : J. B. King, William Ward, J. P. Alcorn, Chris. Green, W. P. 
Hazen, J. L. Lefflngwell, J. W. Wilson, R. King, F. Willard and Samuel D. Harris, 
Jr. The capital was $2,000 in $10 shares. 

Portage County Park Association was organized February 4, 1878, with Alex. 
Topping, M. H. Carter, Horace Y. Beebe, H. W. Riddle, R. E. Wait, W. William- 
son and A. J. Jennings members, for the purpose of laying out a park, holding 
fairs, etc. During the last half century many societies have been organized, of 
which but a few have survived. 

Portage County Branch Bank was established at Ravenna December 15, 1847, 
as a branch of the State Bank. The capital stock was $103,000. The principal 
stockholders were David J. Beardsley, Freedom ; Robert C. Campbell, Ravenna ; 
Sylvester Beachen, Shalers-ville ; Rufus Paine, Stark County ; Seth A. G-illette 
and F. W. Seymour, Ravenna. Henry Dwight. New York City, held 122 shares. 
The Presidents from 1847 to 1863 were R. E. Campbell, F. W. Seymour, B. P. 
Brainerd and Henry Beecher. H. D. Williams, John H. Ebbert and Ezra S. Corn- 
stock were its Cashiers. This banking house has been carried on under the name 
First National since August 19, 1863. 

Ravenna Savings and Loan Association was organized January 8, 1872, with 
Philo B. Couant, F. E. Udell, J. H. NichoUs, Noble Haven and N. S. Olin members. 
The capital stock was placed at .$100,000. In 1879 this association ceased busi- 
ness, suice which time a private banking business has been conducted by Ezra S. 
Comstock. 

First National Bank of Ravenna. — This bank was organized under the United 
States banking law with $100,000 capital stock. August 19, 1863. The first 
Directors were Frederick W. Seymour, E. P. Brainerd, Silas Crocker, Hemy 
Beecher, Newell D. Clark and John L. Ranney. F. W. Seymour was the first 
President, and at his death in 1863 John L. Ranne}"^ was elected as his successor, 
and held the position till his death in 1866, when Newell D. Clark was elected 
President, which position he has held to the present time. Ezra S. Comstock 
was chosen the first Cashier and served until January 20, 1868, when Charles 
B. Witter was placed in that position, where he has continued to the present 
time. 

Rohinson, King & Co., Private Bankers. — These gentlemen formed a private 
banking house ^Iay 8, 1857. G-eox'ge Robinson was first President ; Horace Y. 
Beebe, Cashier. In 1863 W. H. Beebe was appointed Cashier, his father resign- 
ing. This company continued to do business till 1864, when it was merged into 
the Second National Bank. 

Second National Bank of Ravenna. — This institution was organized under the 
United States banking law February 25, 1864, with a capital stock of $100,000. 
March 12, 1872, its capital stock was increased $50,000. The first Directors were 
George Robinson, E. T. Richardson, D. C. Coolman, F. W. Coffin, Robert King, 
Eli P. Kiug and H. L. Day. George Robinson was the first President, and he 
and E. T. Richardson have filled that position since the organization of the bank. 
D. C. Coolman is Vice-President. W. H. Beebe was chosen the first Cashier and 
has retained the position to the present time, 1885. 

The Peoples Mutual Fire Insurance Company of Ravenna was organized Feb- 
ruary 2, 1876, with E. T. Richardson, President, and Andrew Jackson, Secretary. 
There were 210 holders of premium notes. 

Diamond Glass Company was organized October 28, 1867, with F. W. Coffin, 
George Robinson, D. C. Coolman, H. H. Stevens and J. D. Horton members. In 
1874 Messrs. Robinson, Coolman and Holcomb formed the company and in 1879 
the latter purchased Robinson's interest. Messrs. Coolman and Holcomb are the 
proprietors, with George T. Smith Secretary and Treasurer. Sixty men are 
employed in the manufacture of window glass, the annual product of which is 
valued at $100,000. 



542 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

Ravenna Flint Glass Company (limited) was organized August 26, 1882, for 
the manufacture of glass, lamp chimneys, hollow and other glassware, with B. 
Zeigler, John Myrick, J. Bladenheiser, Henry Sweitzer, Henry Evans, Geo. S. 
Jade, Mat. Harre, J. A. Creighton, John H. Ganse, William Grinnell, John Staiger, 
Theo. Creighton, Geo. Kline, William Myrick, W. S. Gibbons and Frank 
Woolpert. The members of the company subscribed $14,500 and the citizens of 
Ravenna. On January 8, 1883, the Crown Flint Glass Company purchased the 
interests and works of this company, and in 1884 erected the large furnace. 

Croum Flint Glass Company was organized January 15, 1883, with H. D. Sey- 
mour, George E. Fairchild, William Grinnell, Frank Woolpert, Theo. Creighton 
and James Bladenheiser members, for the purpose of manufacturing pressed and 
blown glassware at Ravenna. The capital stock was $40,000. George E. Fair- 
child, President ; H. D. Seymour, Vice-President and General Manager, and F. W. 
Woodbridge, Secretarj^ and Treasurer. Average number men employed, 175 ; 
amount annual sales, $175,000 ; pay roll about $7,500 per month. 

Fnterprise Glass Co7npany of Ravenna was organized January 16, 1878, with 
Michael Krebs, C. H. W. Ruhe, George Kleen, James Bladenheiser and Julius 
Schenk members. They purchased the Ballinger Glass Pail Works, extended the 
buildings and conducted a successful business up to a few years ago. The works 
were shut down in June, 1883. Anthony Schneider now holds the works ready for 
operation. 

Star Agricultural Works were established in 1874 at Ravenna. The company 
was organized October 29, 1874, with E. P. Brainerd, P. P. Dawley, Benjamin J. 
Wells, Henry D. Seymour and H. R. W. Hall members. The capital stock was 
placed at $40,000. The works were founded for the purpose of manufacturing 
O'Neil's Universal Fodder Cutter, agricultural implements, steam engines, tools, 
machinery, and carrying on a repairing shop. This was the successor of the 
Ravenna Mowing Machine Manufacturing Compan}-. The buildings are now 
owned by the Quaker Mills. 

Quaker Mill Company of Ravenna was organized May 3, 1877, with Francis B. 
King, John B. King, Henry D. Seymour, William Hisler, Henry H. Stevens orig- 
inal members. In November, 1881, the present company purchased the mills from 
W. H. Corning, who purchased the mills from the original company-. H. B. Crow- 
ell, President ; J. H. Andrews, Secretary ; E. R. Crowell, Treasurer ; R. L. Phelps, 
Manager. The mill gives employment to forty men ; capacity 200 barrels of oat- 
meal. 

Ravenna Mills were established a few years ago on Main Street near the 
Cleveland & Pittsburg Railroad Depot. Quincy Cook is proprietor. This indus- 
try gives employment to five men. 

Atlantic Mill was moved to Ravenna from Campbellsport, and rebuilt in 1881. 

E. & A Knapp Pump Factory was established by G. W. Lowe, who sold the 
building to Mr. Knapp in 1874. This industry gives employment to four men. 
The value of machinery and buildings is placed at $4,000. 

D. L. Baldwin & Son's planing-mill was established by A. C. Chapman & Son 
as a cheese box factor}', about 1863 ; the buildings, grounds and machinery were 
purchased in 1879 by D. L. Baldwin, and new machinery was introduced. The 
capacity is 40,000 foot surface, matching 10,000 per day. This mill employs five 
men throughout the year. The value of building and machinery is about $6,000. 

The old hub and spoke factory was started by E. B. GriflSn, was converted into 
a planing-mill and operated for over a quarter of a century. 

Work & Yeend established their steam saw- mill in the"^fall of 1873 at Shalers- 
ville, moved the mill and machinery to Charlestowa early in 1879, and thence to 
Ravenna in the fall of 1883. The capacity is 10,000 per day. This industry gives 
employment to six men the year round. Their lumber yard was established 
about this time. 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 543 

Kiiigsbui*}' & Sons' planing mill was erected about 1867 by K. H. Kline, and 
purchased in 1871 by J. Kingsbur}-. The value of buildings and machinery is 
placed at $6,000 ; capacity is about 20,000 surface feet, 15,000 matching, and 
15,000 resaw per day. There are four men employed. 

Grohe's planing-mill and sash and blind factory (the old Griffin hub factor}'^ 
and planing-raill) was purchased by Henr}' Grohe in December, 1884. The 
industr}' gives emplo3'ment to five men. Here A. B. Griffin continues to operate 
the bending works. 

Ravenna Gas Light d- Coke Company was organized April 19, 1873, with the 
following members : Isaiah Lenton, Henr^' W. Riddle, Dewitt C. Coolman, H. D. 
Seymour, William L. Poe and W. Holcomb. The capital stock was placed 
at $40,000. On March 3, 1873, the Village Council ordered an election to be held 
to decide the question of gas works. This election gave a majority of contents, 
and on April 11, 1875, the Council authorized the organization of the company. 

Zeller Valve Manufacturing Company was organized August 17, 1881, with 
Mahlon M. Zeller, J. H. Whitehead and E. L. Day members. Mr. Zeller's sub- 
scription to the capital was his patent for valves and rights therein. 

Stockwell, Griffin d- Co., comprising Levi W. Stockwell, A. B. Griffin, M. F. 
King, Benjamin J. W^ells and D. W. Summerville, was organized August 16, 1873, 
for the purpose of manufacturing bolts, nuts, lapping-pipe, fittings and other 
machinery, tools and implements. The capital was placed at $100,000. 

The Haley Foundry and Machine Shop was established b}' William Haley & 
Co., January 21, 1881. In January, 1884, William Haley purchased the inter- 
ests of J. Blackshaw, Solomon Haley and Andrew Marshall. The leading 
manufactures comprise molds and tools for glass works and general machinery. 
The value of machinery is about $7,000. There are nine men emplo^'ed. 

J. F. Byers machine shop was established by Mr. M3'ers in 1873 and, in 1876, 
in the buildings previousl}- occupied by Ferr}' & King as a carriage factor}'. The 
machinery is valued at about $4,000. The business of the shop is repairing and 
jobbing. This industry gives employment to three men. 

Doig's foundry was established in 1876 b}^ Robert Doig, who converted a part 
of the Ferry & King factory into a plow factor}', and erected the brick building, 
just west, for a foundry. During the winter of 1884-85 it was closed down. 

The Ravenna Woolen Mills, near the New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Depot, 
are operated by J. and J. M. Gledhill. 

Osborn's marble and granite works are operated by H. L. Osborn. 

JStna Block Company was permanently organized February 19, 1867, with 
Henry Beecher, President ; William Ward, Secretary ; D. K. Wheeler, Superin- 
tendent, and H. D. Seymour, Treasurer. The building committee comprised H. 
Beecher, D. K. Wheeler and William Ward. During the same month the mason 
work of the proposed building was sold to Brigham and Jennings and the joiner 
work to George Thomas. 

On January 25, 1868, W. S. Streator, N. D. Clark, H. D. Seymour, W. M. But- 
ler, D. K. Wheeler, William Ward and Nelson Converse agreed that W. S. Streator, 
in consideration of his conveyance of three fourths interest in his property, known 
as the Gillette House and Stables, he should hold a one-fourth interest, the com- 
pany agreeing to remodel the old Gillette House, so as to render it suitable for 
stores, offices, etc., Streator paying one-fourth of expense and the other members 
three-fourths, the profits to be divided in the same proportion. The sum paid to 
R. P. Gillette was $5,000, and to him the house was rented in January, 1868. 
The first officers were re-elected, and this re-election was followed down to July 
8, 1884, when William Ward, the Secretary, died ; William Ward, Jr., was acting 
Secretary for some time in 1884, and in September of that year was appointed 
Secretary, which position he now holds. N. D. Clark succeeded Mr. Beecher as 
President. The company owns the frame blocks known as the Empire and the 



544 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

Exchange, as well as the large brick block known as the Etna House. This was 
the second brick block erected in Ravenna, the Phoenix Block being the first. 

The Commercial Hotel was erected by Andrew Poe in 1873, at a total cost of 
$20,000. This house has seen many changes in its ownership. 

The first liveries were established by Ira Mason, Hiram Collins, Nathan Leo- 
nard, H. Hartell, James Letfingwell, Buck & Wheeler and Simon Stowe, from 1840 
to 1850. In 1855 Benjamin Morris opened a livery ; in 1860, S. B. Poe and 
Newton & Bills entered the business. From 1866 to 1869 George Alvin and 
Simpson Poe operated the three establishments then at Ravenna. There are a 
few liveries and hack-lines now in operation. 

Ravenna Carriage Manufacturing Company was organized September 15, 1855, 
with James L Curtiss, D. N. Furry, M, F. King, E. P. Evans and James Johnson 
original members. The capital stock was $25,000. 

The 3Iertz & Riddle Carriage Factory is one of the great manufacturing indus- 
tries of the count}'. This firm gives employment to over 100 men the year round. 

The general statistics for 1884 are as follows : Acres of wheat 1,106, bushels 
16,695 ; rye 6, bushels 38 ; buckwheat 6, bushels 61 ; oats 777, bushels 26,081 ; 
barley, 3 acres; corn 625, bushels 7,607 ; meadow 1,853, hay 3,053 tons ; clover 
149 acres, 193 tons and 70 bushels of seed ; potatoes 228 acres, 27,123 bushels ; 
milk sold for family use, 82,650 gallons ; home-made butter, 59,969 pounds ; 
factory butter, 6,30!) pounds ; cheese, 93,506 pounds ; maple sugar, 2,400 pounds ; 
gallons oT syrup 1,317, from 5,302 trees ; 507 pounds honey from 66 hives ; eggs, 
17,783 dozens ; sweet potatoes, 4 bushels; orchards, 313 acres; apples, 8,716 
bushels ; peaches, 57 bushels ; pears, 96 bushels ; pounds of wool, 5,144 ; milch 
cows, 715; stallions, 3 ; dogs, 260 ; killed, 21 sheep ; died of disease, 14 hogs, 
21 sheep, 13 cattle and 3 horses; acres under cultivation, 7.456 : pasture, 4,266 ; 
woodland, 2,095 ; wasteland, 120 ; total, 13,937 acres. Population in 185') was 
2,239, including 808 youth ; 1870, 3,423 ; in 1880, 4,224 ; in 1884 (estimated), 
4,800, Including village, the population of which is estimated at 3,900. 



CHAPTER XXX. 
ROOTSTOWN TOWNSHIP. 



The First Cabin— David Root— A Sad Death— First Wheat Crop— Nathan 
Muzzy— A Distillery— An Alien Justice— First Birth— The Chap3ians 
— First Frame Structure— Mother Ward— The First Criminal— Punii- 
TivE Schools— The Old Grave-yard— Early Churches— Organization 
AND Officers— Noted Events— Soil, Products and Statistics. 

ROOTSTOWN was originally the property of Ephraim Root and John 
Wyles, Root being the principal proprietor, and owning, in addition to 
the land here, a great deal of other property on the Western Reserve. He 
was a native of Coventry, Conn., and a lawyer of some note. He was also 
agent for a number of other land owuers, and paid at least one visit a year to- 
this section after its settlement till about 1811, when the Indian troubles and 
the war of 1812 had the effect of keeping him away. He died in 1825. 

In the spring of 1800 Mr. Root, in company with a young man named 
Harvey Davenport, paid his first visit to the township. He employed Nathan- 
iel Cook to survey his property, Town 2, Range 8, into forty-eight lots of vari- 



ROOTSTOWN TOWNSHIP. 545 

ous sizes, commencing with Lot 1 in the southeast corner, then running north, 
then south, and so on, ending with Lot 48 in the southwest corner. 

The first death of a white person in Rootstown was that of the young man 
spoken of above, Davenport. He had over-heated himself and lain down on 
the damp ground, whereby he took a violent cold, that in a short time 
caused his death. He was buried near where he died, on Lot 7. 

In the spring of 1801 Mr. Root returned, he having gone back to Connect- 
icut the fall previously, and this time brought out his brother David. They 
commenced improvements on Lot 6, which Ephraim Root reserved for himself, 
as it touched upon the portage between Pittsburgh and Cleveland. Here the 
Roots put up a two-story log-cabin near where Campbellsport now stands. 
Nathan Muzzy, who came out about this time, was engaged to do the carpen- 
tering. Muzzy was a graduate of Yale College, and bad been a very able and 
promising young minister in Massachusetts, but meeting with disappointment 
in a love affair, a screw became loose in his mental machinery and he wandered 
away to the West. He always carved the name " Emma Hale " on all build- 
ings and gates he constrvicted. He discovered the little lake in this township 
which has ever since borne his name. The poor old man died many years ago, 
and was buried in Palmyra by some friends who took pity on his lonely and 
decrepit old age, and removed him from the county poor-house to their 
homes. 

The first crop of wheat was put in during the fall of 1801 by the Roots, 
who then returned to their homes in the East, but David came out again in 
April of the following year and settled upon the place they had inJjDroved, 
afterward removing to Lot 7, where he lived till his death. 

In 1802 Henry O'Niell and Samuel McCoy, natives of Ireland, who had 
a lived in Pennsylvania awhile, moved in and settled on Lot 3. O'Niell had 
a family of children, mostly grown; McCoy had only a wife. Together 
they put up a cabin, but McCoy afterward moved to Lot 28, and put up a 
cabin by the well-known "McCoy Springs." He was a man of very little 
education, but could, in the language of the old English tar, "play the fiddle 
like a hangel! " Mr. O'Niell was well educated, and in 1806 was elected Jus- 
tice of the Peace for Franklin, which at that time comprised what is now 
Franklin, Ravenna, Rootstown, Atwater, Randolph, Suffield and Brimfield. 
O'Niell erected the first distillery, a small affair, but enough to supply the 
wants of himself and McCoy and their families, and a few friends in the neigh- 
borhood. He remained Justice for four or five years, but his magisterial 
career was cut very short just before he left in 1811. He had offended some 
person by one of his decisions, when that person went to the Irish Justice and 
asked him to show his naturalization papers. Being unable to do so, he was 
informed that he was liable to prosecution for illegally exercising the duties 
of a magistrate without being a citizen, and that if he did not immediately 
" git up and dust," he would be arrested. He left, and the township lost one 
of its best residents. 

Epraim Root gave notice that he would give to the first child born in the 
township fifty acres of land, and John McCoy, son of Samuel McCoy, won the 
prize. This event happened in August, 1802, and was the first birth in the 
township. It is said there was considerable competition between the mother 
of this little land-winner and the wife of David Root, whose son, Solomon, 
came in second-best; time, about twenty days behind McCoy's "W. C. Johnnie. 

In the fall of 1802 Michael Hartle and Frederick Caris came in and set- 
tled the first on Lot 42, on the east side of Muddy Lake, and Caris on Lot 43, 
on the west of the lake. They were originally from Northumberland County, 



546 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

Penn., but had been living on the Ohio River about thirty miles below Pitts- 
burgh. In January, 1803, John Caris, a son of Frederick, came in, and with 
him Arthur Anderson, both of whom wei'e engaged by Root to clear land. In 
April following John Caris, a brother of Frederick, with his wife, came and 
settled at Muddy Lake. Anderson returned to Pennsylvania, married, and 
then lived in Ravenna awhile, but finally came to Rootstown. 

May 2, 1803, Ashur Ely, of Deerfield, was married to Lydia Lyman, who 
lived in the family of David Root, at whose house the ceremonies were per- 
formed by Squire Hudson, of Hudson Township, he being the nearest official 
capable of tying the knot. 

In 1804 a large number of persons came in, among whom were Frederick 
Caris, Sr. , father of Frederick, Jr., and John, and in the fall of this year 
Thaddeus Andrews, Nathan Chapman and his son Ephraim, Jacob, Charles 
and Abraham Reed, and Hannah Russell, a sister of Mrs. Andrews, all from 
Connecticut. Those who came in the fall remained at Root's place till they 
erected cabins, which they did during the following winter. Andrews selected 
Lot 21, the northwest quarter at the Center, but did not move on to the same 
till a year or two afterward, as he was engaged by Root to keep his tavern 
near the corners of the four townships. The Chapmans settled on Lot 4, and 
put up a cabin. Ephraim soon afterward moved to where he resided for 
many years, a highly respected citizen. He drove the first team from 
Rootstown to Ravenna. Jacob and Abraham Reed settled on the south 
west corner of Lot 15, but Abraham afterward moved to the southwest corner 
of centfer Lot 22, where he kept a tavern for many years. Charles Reed lived 
with his brother till he was married, when he moved onto Lot 16. This year, 
1804, Ml-. Root erected the first frame barn in the township, which stood a lit- 
tle north of his house. David Wright, of Ravenna, hewed the timber, and 
Nathan Muzzy framed it. The lumber was obtained at the little McWhorter 
Mill, in the southeast corner of Ravenna Township. 

In the fall of 1805 Beeman Chapman, a brother of Ephraim, arrived with 
his w^ife and brother Nathan; the latter, after a year passed at Root's settle- 
ment, moved to the south part of Lot 4. Stephen Colton and family also came 
in from Connecticut and settled on Lot 21, but afterward moved to Lot 14. 
In May, 1806, Gersham Bostwick moved in and settled on Lot 8, in a cabin 
he had built the fall previously. With his family came Edmund Bostwick and 
his wife, the parents of Gersham. Edmund died in 1826, aged ninety-six 
years. When past eighty years he made a trip on horseback from Rootstown 
to Philadelphia, and thence to Vermont, and back again to Rootstown. Cal- 
vin Ellsworth, from Ellington, Conn., came in July, and settled on Lot 28. 
In November Alpheus, a twin-brother of Thaddeus Andrews, and their brother 
Samuel, wuth Martin Bissell, came in with their families. The Andrews set- 
tled on Lot 23, but Samuel soon after moved to Lot 21, where he erected the 
first frame house in the township. Thaddeus having exchanged land with his 
bi'other Samuel, moved to Lot 14. Bissell located on the west side of the road, 
on the south part of Lot 22. Samuel Andrews afterward moved to Franklin 
Township, and Alpheus was one of the first settlers in Brimfield. With the 
Andrews brothers came a niece, Miss Mary W^hituey, and a teamster, Gersham 
Norris. This year also came Mother Wai'd, but she did not bring her husband 
along with her. She located on Lot 18, and the pond at that point was named 
for her. She was a remarkable woman; could split rails, lay a fence, and plow 
as good as any man. She walked one day from Poland to Rootstown, a 
distance of forty miles. She was married twice, separating from her last hus- 
band when she came here. Benjamin Simcox, noted as being the first person 
to be tried by the County Court in 1808, after organization, also came. 



ROOTSTOWN TOWNSHIP. 547 

In February, 1807, Hiram Roundy, his wife and their adopted son, G. H. 
R. Prindle, came in, and about the same time Heman Bostwick, who, how- 
ever, did not stay long. Titus Belding came in with Bostwick, and in 1809 
married Miss Lucy, a daughter of Gersham Bostwick, and settled on Lot 17. 
Robert McKnight also came this year, and settled on Lot 10. He had been 
oat the year before, purchased 300 acres of land and set out a nursery. His 
family consisted of his wife, his mother and an only son, Robert, Jr. Will- 
iam and James Alcorn, Irishmen and bachelors, came with McKnight. 

The first school that was open to all children was taught by Samuel 
Andrews in the winter of 1807-08, in a cabin at the Center, which was soon 
after burned down, and another built, which for many years was used as a 
schoolhouse, meeting bouse and town -house. Miss Polly Harmon, sister of 
the late John Harmon, taught after Andrews. Three or four years previous 
to this time Mrs. Ephraim Chapman had taught a few children at her house, 
but it was not a school for the public. A number of the Rootstown children 
had attended the school kept by David Root, on the road from Ravenna to 
Campbellsport, about 1805. The school statistics are: Revenue in 1884, 
14,975; expenditures, $3,412; number of schoolhouses, 10, valued at $6,500; 
average pay of teachers, $35 and $20; em'ollment, 193 boys and 187 girls. 

In 1808 Ebenezer Bostwick and his family came, and settled on Lot 17, 
where not long afterward he started a pottery for the manufacture of earthen- 
ware. About this time Ephraim Root put up a saw-mill on the creek north of 
the Center. Also came Philip Willard and Valentine Coosard, the former set- 
tling on Lot 42, and the latter on Lot 41. In tbe summer of this year Ariel 
Case and John Wright cleared a piece of land on Lot 10, and sowed it to 
wheat. 

August 31, 1809, Nathan Chapman died at the age of fifty-one years, and 
was the first person interred in the first burial ground. The body was carried 
by hand to the grave, there being no road from Beeman Chapman's, where the 
father died. In this year came Israel Coe, who settled on Lot 5; also Will- 
iam and Cbauncy Newbury. William located on Lot 27, and Chauncy, who at 
the time was single, lived with his brother till his marriage, when he settled 
on Lot 28. In 1810 Merriam Richardson and David Parker arrived in the 
township with their families, Richardson settling on Lot 33, and Parker mov- 
ing into the cabin built by McCoy. Also came Daniel and Reuben Hall, and 
their sister Eliza, w^ho married Gersham Norris, and moved to Canton. In 
1811 Samuel B. Spellman and Asa Seymour came from Massachusetts, and Asher 
Gurley, from Connecticut. Spellman settled on Lot 21, Gurley on Lot 9, and 
Seymour returned to the East. In August, 1811, Robert J. Collins, Sr., and his 
thi'ee sons, Robert J., Jr., David and Daniel, with their families, arrived, Dan- 
iel locating on Lot 28, and the othwrs on Lot 20, on the Center road. In 1819 
James Wright settled in the township, and January 28, 1821, was appointed 
first Postmaster. William Huffman, Thomas Hayden and others came in 
about 1819. Wright held his position for twenty years. Mr. Wright mar- 
ried a daughter of Abraham Reed. He was succeeded in office by Otis Reed, 
his deputy. He, also, for nine successive years, was Justice of the Peace. 

Until the year 1806 the Indian title to the lands west of the Cuyahoga 
River and Portage path had not been extinguished, and some uneasiness was 
felt by the settlers on these lands for fear that their title might not be as per- 
fect as they could wish. On Mai'ch 5, 1805, Ephraim Root wrote to Elijah 
Wadsworth that measures were pending for the extinguishment of these claims 
of the Indians, and stated that a treaty would shortly be made with them, 
and, accordingly, a Treaty Council was held at Fort Industry, and the titles of 



548 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

the lands obtained, but the measure had yet to pass the Senate. It came 
before the Senate, that body ratified the proceedings of the Council, and the 
claims of the aboriginies were forever silenced. 

On the 16th day of August, 1810, the Rev. Giles H. Cowles, a missionary 
from the Connecticut Board of Home Missions of the Congregational Church, 
organized the first church society in Rootstown. It was composed of the fol- 
lowing persons: Samuel Andrews and wife, Alpheus Andrews and wife, 
Thaddeus Andrews and wife, Israel Coe and wife, Mason Richardson and 
wife, Michael Hartle and wife, Oliver Dickinson and wife, Mrs. Lois Chap- 
man, Mrs. Ephraim Chapman, Mrs. Nathan Chapman, Jr., and Mrs. William 
Newbury. Samuel Andrews was chosen Deacon, and his brother Thaddeus 
succeeded him. In 1829 the congregation built a very neat edifice for the 
times, which was 36x46 feet, and various pastors have filled the pulpit of the 
church. This society reorganized under State law March 27, 1861, as the 
First Congregational Society of Rootstown, with Erastus Seymour, President, 
and A. H. Barlow, Clerk; J, Seymour, J. S. Austin and Gideon Seymour were 
elected Trustees. 

In 1814 Rev. Henry Shewell came to Rootstown and settled on Lot 12. 
Shortly after coming Shewell formed a class, and in 1815 organized the first 
Methodist Episcopal Congregation in the township. Meetings, for a number 
of years, were held at the house of the minister. The church belonged to the 
Warren District, and the circuit was 400 miles in extent. Rev. Ira Eddy was 
the first pastor of the Rootstown charge. 

The first election held in Rootstown as an organized township was Sep- 
tember 10, 1810, when Gersham Bostwick was chosen Chairman and Samuel 
Andrews and Jacob Reed Judges of the Election. The following are the only 
names that are now remembered as appearing among the ofiicers elected at that 
time: Trustees, Gersham Bostwick, Frederick Caris, Jr., Thaddeus Andrews; 
Clerk, Alpheus Andrews; Samuel Andrews, Justice of the Peace. The oldest 
records of the township, of date March 7, 1812, give the following ofiicers: 
Trustees, Stephen Colton, Thaddeus Andrews, Frederick Caris, Jr. ; Clerk, 
Alpheus Andrews; Supervisors, Israel Coe, Ephraim Chapman, Philip Will- 
ard, Stephen Colton. 

In the very early days a man named Robert Wright, a member of a family 
which bore a bad reputation, was found on the banks of Silver Creek with his 
throat cut from ear to ear. Family trouble is supposed to have been the cause. 

In 1815 Robert McKnight and his son Robert, Jr., and a boy cut a bee 
tree, which in falling struck all thi'ee of them, injuring the elder McKnight 
and the boy, and killing Robert McKnight, Jr., instantly. He left a wife and 
four children. 

March 4, 1834, the dwelling-house of Hawkins Clark was burned to the 
ground and his two daughters, Louisa and Henrietta, were consumed in "the 
building before they could be rescued. It was one of the saddest occurrences 
that has ever visited the county. A building that occupied the same spot in 
1868 was also destroyed by fire. 

In 1845 an epidemic called the black erysipelas prevailed to an alarming 
extent, and seemed to baffle the skill of the best physicians. About one- 
twentieth of the inhabitants of the entire township fell before the almost 
irresistible plague, for it was so virulent as to deserve that title. 

One of the most singular cases in the annals of surgery and disease 
occurred about ten years ago. Mrs. Mary C. Burnham had been afflicted for 
about twenty years with throat afi'ections, which gave her great annoyance, 
and in 1874 whilst eating dinner was taken with what appeared to be a choking 




J^^J^Ac^a ^^/Lu^-t^L^ 



ROOTSTOWN TOWNSHIP. 551 

spell, and in her efforts to dislodge what she supposed was a piece of meat, 
threw her tongue out of her mouth. She lived till 1876, when death ended 
her suflferings. Various theories were advanced by physicians, some attribut- 
ing the disease to cancer, others to catarrh, others to something else. ' For 
some time before it fell out her tongue was paralyzed, but she learned to talk 
intelligibly with her lips. 

Mrs. Gurley, who settled here with her husband in 1819, had a singular 
adventure with a bear. Her husband brought two young pigs to the town- 
ship in 1823-24, which were placed within strong pickets. One night in 
1824 she heard the squeals of the pigs, and rushing out saw what appeared to 
be a large dog within the pen. On the approach of the woman this supposed 
large dog turned toward her, and as he looked over the fence, Mrs. Gurley struck 
him in the head with an ax. By this time she realized that her battle was 
with a bear rather than a dog, and ran toward the house. Some friends there 
at the time ran forth to continue the battle, when, to their surprise, they found 
the bear dead. 

Rootstown Protective Association was organized three years ago. In Jan- 
uary, 1885, the following officers were elected: G. W. Bow, President; H. M. 
Deming, Vice-President; H. O. Reed, Secretary; C. H. Bradshaw, Treasurer; 
David Bogue, Homer Chapman and Elam Underwood were elected Directors. 

The affairs of the association are in a very satisfactory shape. The 
amount of risks in force at the end of last year was ^480, 963, an increase dm'ing 
the year of nearly $60,000. The losses during the past year have been 
$16.76 or about 3J cents upon each $1,000 insured. The association has been 
in operation nearly three years. The average annual cost of insurance has 
been about 70 cents per $1,000. 

The school biiilding at Rootstown was erected in 1884 at a cost of about 
$3,400. This is a two-story structiu'e, slated; close to it is the Congregational 
Church. The old Methodist Church here was restored about ten years ago. 
The only mercantile house at the Center is that of G. W. Bow. At New Mil- 
ford a general store is conducted by L. F. Pike. At New Milford or Roots- 
town Station, a grist and flouring-mill was founded years ago. It is now 
operated by F. P. Root. The capacity is about seventy-five barrels. 

The C. H. Bradshaw saw-mill south of Rootstown is an important industry. 

Jacob Kriss established his wagon and carriage-shop at New Milford 
twenty-five years ago. His sons now operate it, and do a large business. 

Rootstown is one of the best townships in the county, and is populated by 
a thrifty, industrious class of citizens. The soil is very productive, and in 
addition to the usual farm crops considerable dairying is done, and its cheese 
interests are gradually growing in importance. The country is well watered, 
having besides the numerous small streams, several lakes, or large ponds. 
Two of the larger, Sandy and Muddy Lakes are favorite resorts during 
the summer season. Muzzy and Ward's ponds are the other two. The town- 
ship is well supplied with schools, and the standard of education of the 
citizens is much above the average. The Center is a very thriving little vil- 
lage, and considerable business is transacted there, but it lies about one mile 
and a half west of New Milford, the station of the Cleveland & Pittsburgh 
branch of the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railroad, a portion of the 
great Pennsylvania system of railroads. During the struggle for the main- 
tenance of the Union, Rootstown sent to the front fifty-seven of her best sons, 
eleven of whom were either killed or died in the service. 

The statistics of the township are as follows: Acres of wheat, 1^430, bushels, 
22,947; of oats, 779, bushels, 26,840; of corn, 6,610 bushels; of hay, 3,164 

29 



552 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

tons; of clover, 60 tons and 247 bushels of seed; of potatoes, 3,385 bushels; 
home-made butter, 50,700 pounds; of factory butter, 30,000 pounds; of cheese, 
200,000 pounds; of sugar, 190 pounds and 1,370 gallons of syrup from 6,430 
trees; of honey, 1,120 pounds from 262 hives; orchards, 421 acres; apples, 
12,920 bushels; peaches, 340 bushels; pears, 30 bushels; wool, 3,035 pounds; 
milch cows, 657; dogs, 143; killed, 8 sheep; died of disease, 11 hogs, 106 
sheep, 16 cattle and 6 horses; acres under cultivation, 7,104; in pasture, 
7,560; woodland, 2,091; waste, 420; total, 17,175 acres. Population in '1850 
was 1,308, including 468 youth; in 1870, 1,169; in 1880, 1,217; in 'l884 
(estimated), 1,250. 



CHAPTER XXXI. 
SHALERSVILLE TOWNSHIP. 

A Pioneer Family— Early Privations— Some Other Settlers — Three Self- 
made Men— Silas Crocker, Sylvester Beecher, David McIntosh— 
Organization— Births, Deaths and Marriages— Muzzy and his Mill- 
First Industries— Schools and Churches— War Record— Incidents and 
Facts- An Aged Land-mark— Business — Resources— Statistics. 

SHALERSVILLE at the drawing of the Connecticut Land Company fell to 
the lot of Gen. Nathaniel Shaler, of Middietown, Conn. , and from this fact 
the township at one time was called Middietown. He was the father of Charles 
Shaler, of Pittsburgh, and William D. Shaler, at one time a merchant 
of Ravenna. One of his daughters was the wife of Commodore McDon- 
ough, and it is said that after the victory of that naval hero on Lake Cham- 
plain, when the people of Middietown illuminated, Shaler refused to do so, 
he being a violent Federalist, until the enraged populace threatened to tear his 
house down, when the old Tory came to terms. The township is Town 4, 
Range 8. 

In the spring of 1806 Joel Baker with his wife and one child started from 
Tolland County, Conn., in a wagon, and after a long and tiresome journey 
arrived on the spot where now is the center of Shalersville. The country at 
that time was an unbroken wilderness, and not the least sign of a clearing 
appeared, so when Baker got out of his wagon and looked around, it mast 
have been upon a scene calculated to daunt any but the most determined nat- 
ure. He, however, went to work with a will and, fortunately, had a wife 
who was, indeed, a helpmeet to him, for when he dug a well, which was almost 
the first thing he did, his wife handled the windlass while he delved down in 
the depths. For the first few nights after his arrival the whole family slept 
in a large hollow log, but soon he reared a small cabin and made a clear- 
ing around it on Lot 46, 160 acres having been given him by Shaler to 
settle upon it. This cabin was located nearly opposite where the hotel now 
stands, and the well, we learn, is in good condition yet. Baker, some time 
previous to coming to the Reserve, had purchased Lot 33, and after spending 
two years at his first settlement, moved to this lot, where he opened up a farm, 
erected good buildings, and died in 1849. Those two first years were terribly 
lonesome ones to the sturdy pioneer and his wife, as no settler came in during that 
time. He had to go long distances for provisions, and the townships of Free- 



SHALERSVILLE TOWNSHIP. 553 

dom and Streetsboro were still as nature had formed them, they not being set- 
tled up for several years afterward. Mantua was beginning to till up, however, 
and he had some neighbors there, within two or three miles. Mrs. Baker is 
said to have been an extraordinary woman in points of endurance and resources, 
and with a patience that never wearied; just the brave wife for one of those 
grand old " builders without wage," who laid their foundations deep and strong, 
and made possible this marvellous occidental civilization. 

In the year 1801 Simeon Crane, with his family, came to Canfield, Trum- 
bull County, with an ox-team, a horse and a cow, making the journey in forty 
days. There he resided till 1808, when he, in company with two brothers, 
Belden and Calvin, came to Shalersville. Simeon was born in Saybrook, 
Conn., but the family were of "Welsh extraction, an ancestor having immi- 
grated to America at an early day, whence sprung the entire Crane family, so 
numerous throughout the country. The three brothers built two log- houses 
during this year, then returned to Canfield, and in the spring of 1809 moved 
in for permanent settlement, and where their descendants live to this day, E. 
M. Crane being the leading representative of the family, and having the honor 
or good fortune to have been the first white male child born in the township. 
Simeon died September 14, 1846, and their first son. Squire Manly Crane, 
as he is better known, is a worthy scion of the original stbck. 

In 1808 came Hezekiah Hine, a young man, from old Milford, Conn., who 
afterward married and became a leading citizen. He settled at the Center. 
In 1809 Daniel Keyes, from Connecticut, came and settled also at the Center. 
The family did not remain long, however. Daniel was the father of Asa D. 
Keyes, a lawyer, and agent for Gen. Shaler, and at the organization of the 
county was elected the first Prosecuting Attorney. Asa was a man of consid- 
erable natural talent and culture, but let the demon of intemperance get the 
better of him at times. Elisha Burroughs, who came in 1808, was in Stark's 
command and heard Stark's celebrated order. 

In ISIO William Coolman and family came from Middletown, Conn. He 
became one of the Trustees at the organization of the township in 1812, and 
his son, William, Jr., was Sheriff in 1820-23, Eepresentative in the Legislat- 
ure, Justice of the Peace, and for many years an editor. In this year there 
came Daniel Burroughs, with his family, and sons Asa K. and Greenhood, 
with their families, from Vermont, Joel Walter from Connecticut, and Benja- 
min Bradley. Moses Carpenter also came from Connecticut. 

In 1811 Horace Burroughs with wife and family came from Vermont; 
Ephraim Brown, a son-in-law of Daniel Burroughs, and Daniel Hine and 
family from old Milford, Conn. Vine Welch also came in this year, and set- 
tled south of the Center. 

In 1814 Silas Crocker, then a lad of fifteen years, having been born at 
Chelsea, Vt. , in 1799, came in with the Thompsons — Job Thompson, Sr. , and 
Benoni Thompson, and their families — with whom he had lived from his ninth 
year. The mother of young Crocker died when he was nine years old, and he 
being of poor parents was put out at that tender age to carve his fortune for 
himself, and well he has done it. He has held the office of Justice of the 
Peace for many years, and is now comparatively hale and hearty at the age of 
eighty-five. 

Gen. David Mcintosh, a half brother of Paschal P. Mcintosh, of Mantua, 
started in life a poor boy, but fell into good hands on obtaining work with 
Judge Atwater, who sent him to school. His death occurred April 17, 1883; 
no man was more honored in his county than Gen. Mcintosh. He left a sum 
of money to be applied to furnishing flags forever to the county, as his patriotism 



554 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

was such that it amounted almost to devotion to the " starry banner. " He 
was a Major-General of Militia and represented his county in the Legislature. 

Sylvester Beecher, also a poor boy, came from Connecticut at an early day, 
and worked for many years as a hired hand, chopping and clearing land. He 
became very enterprising, running a large ashery, and merchandising. 
Also owned considerable land, and was a stockholder in the bank at Eavenna. 
He was in the war of 1812, and was at the battle of the River Raisin. He 
died in 1855. 

Th,e township was organized and an election held April 6, 1812, when the 
following officers were chosen: Trustees, William Coolman, Joel Walter, 
Simeon Crane; Clerk, Horace Burroughs; Overseers of the Poor, Daniel Bur- 
roughs, Daniel Keys; Fence Viewers, Samuel Munson, Benjamin Bradley; 
Supervisors, Daniel Burroughs, Abel Hine; Lister, Asa K. Burroughs; Treas- 
urer, Belden Crane; Constable, Richard E. Gay. At an election held the 
following September Daniel Burroughs and Belden Crane were elected Justices 
of the Peace, but for the first two years there was scarcely any business, only 
one suit being entered, Greenhood Burroughs vs. Richard Gay, the Constable, 
and that official had to serve the notice upon himself. It is said that he took 
himself aside and gravely read the summons to appear before the magistrate. 
The suit was to recover the value of a cow bell that had been loaned and 
lost. The plaintiff did not recover. At the second Justices' election in 1815, 
Job Thompson and George Barnes were chosen. Barnes was not thought of 
in connection with the office when the candidates were nominated, he being 
an erratic sort of a fellow, living down in the southwest corner of the 
township, without a I'oad leading to his place. But the voters, not liking one 
of the regular candidates, threw their votes away, as they supposed, voting for 
Barnes, when lo! at the counting of the ballots, Barnes was found to be 
elected. Everybody was surprised, but Barnes, pocketing the joke, qualified 
and made a good Justice. Three cases were appealed from his decisions, but 
in every instance he was sustained by the higher court. 

After the organization in 1814-15, some settlers came into the township, 
among whom were many prominent families: James Goodell and family, 
from Warwick, Mass. ; Isaac Kneeland from Colebrook, Conn., and John Hos- 
kins, with a large family, from Colchester, Conn. 

The first child born in the township was a daughter, Lucinda, in 1808, to 
Joel Baker, the first settler. She died in her seventeenth year. The first 
male child and the second birth was that of a son, E. M. Crane, to Simeon 
Crane, Jvine 14, 1810. Squire Crane, as stated elsewhere, is not only yet in 
the land of the living but good for many a year hence. He is a hale and 
hearty, active and vigorous gentleman of apparently sixty years, but he has 
the weight of seventy- four winters upon his broad shoulders. The first death 
was that of Edward Crane, aged seven, a son of Simeon Crane, September 23, 
1809. The next death, and the first of an adult, was in 1812, a Mr. Dem- 
ing, from Vermont, father-in-law of Asa K. Burroughs. 

In 1810 an event occurred, and in the higher circles, so to speak, if there 
was any difference where all were upon the same footing. It was a wedding, 
and the high contracting parties were Mr. Hezekiah Hine and Miss Mary 
Atwater, of Mantua, a sister of the noted surveyor, large land owner, and after- 
ward Judge of the Court of Common Pleas, Amzi Atwater. The occasion 
drew out all the beauty and fashion of those primitive times, and the knot was 
tied by Squire Elias Harmon, ministers in those days seeming not to have been 
employed for the interesting ceremony. 

An eccentric character named Nathan Muzzy in 1812 came to the town- 



SHALERSVILLE TOWNSHIP. 555 

ship, having been employed by Stephen Mason to look iip a site for a saw- 
mill, which he found on the Cuyahoga near the western line of the township. 
Muzzy was a man who had been highly educated, graduating at Yale College, 
and afterward studied for the ministry, but was either a little " oflf " of his 
mental balance, or bad a queer streak of drollery running through him accom- 
panied by a penchant for machine poetry, which he would get off on all 
occasions. After he had framed his mill and got ready for operations in the 
fall, a freshet came and destroyed the dam, and his neighbors went over to see 
how the dam stood the rushing waters. They found Muzzy silently contem- 
plating the devastation, and as they approached him he exclaimed, " God 
be praised, the Devil's raised, the world rolls round in water." 

The damage being repaired, the mill was largely patronized, for timber 
could be had for the asking, and Mr. Mason, who was elected Sheriff in 1814, 
added a grist-mill to the property. After studying for the ministry Muzzy 
became pastor of a church in Worcester, Mass., but, true to his impulsive nat- 
ure, fell in love with a girl he could not get, and fled for consolation to the 
wilds of the West, totally disappearing from his former connections for 
twenty-five years, when he turned up as a carpenter in Edinburg Township. 
Noah and Noble Rogers moved into Shalersville from Mantua in 1829, and 
established a tannery near the north line of the township. This ceased exist- 
ence over forty years ago. 

In 1810 Moses Carpenter came in from Connecticut and started a tannery 
half a mile west of the Center, where he had more business than he could do. 
It is said that he made an excellent quality of leather, having learned the 
trade thoroughly before he left the East. He was a singular, reticent man, 
and thoroughly honest in all his dealings. He lived entirely alone, and 
never talked of his former home. It was said that some infelicity, or wrong, 
in his household, had soured a naturally good and confiding husband; at any 
rate, he never returned to his family, which he had left in Connecticut, and 
died under the care of Trustees in 1826. 

Vine Welch was the first blacksmith. He came in 1811 and settled south 
of the Center. He lived to an exceedingly advanced age, dying some time 
during the late war at the house of his son in Euclid, nearly touching his one 
hundredth year. 

The first stock of goods was brought in and the first store was opened by 
Sylvester Beecher in 1816. Mr. Beecher also had a factory for the manufact- 
ure of pot and pearl ashes. In 1817 David Mcintosh cut a road through from 
Shalersville to Freedom, the country at that time being an unbroken forest. 

In 1810 the population having grown to proportions sufficient to demand a 
school. Miss AVitter, of Aurora, opened one at the Center, about where the 
barn of Dr. Proctor now stands. It was a log building of small dimensions, 
but scholars were not numerous. It was built of unhewn logs, " with punch- 
eon floor, slab seats, greased paper windows, etc.," in short, having all the 
conveniences usually to be found in schoolhouses of that period, yet, primitive 
as it was, the sons and daughters of such families as the Bakers, Cranes, Bur- 
roughs and Coolmaus received the foundations of their education. Another 
teacher that came afterward was Miss Sophia Coe. The condition of the 
schools at present is told in the following statistics: Revenue in 1884, $4,596; 
expenditures, $2,144; 8 schoolhouses valued at 85,110; average pay of teach- 
ers, S21; enrollment, 63 boys and 61 girls. 

Shalersville Library Association was organized February 15, 1847, with 
Silas Cracker, President; E. M. Crane, Secretary; Samuel Ledyard, P. C. 
Bennett and A. V. Horr, Trustees, and John D. Ramsey, Treasurer. 



556 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

During the early settlement there came occasionally one of those ever rest- 
less, never-tiring cii'cuit riders of the Methodist Church, and among the num- 
ber were R. R. Roberts, afterward Bishop, John Waterman, Martin Retter 
and James McMahon. The Presbyterians, or Congregationalists, also had 
some early missionaries in this field, and Rev. John Seward, Rev. Timothy 
Hopkins and Rev. Mr. Hanford preached here. The First Congregational 
Church was organized in iSlS, with eight members, the male portion being 
Enoch Searle, Roswell Waldo and Isaac Kneeland, but they never had a set. 
tied pastor. 

Disciples Church was organized under State law, September 20, 1850, with 
Silas H. Eldridge, Cyrus Haskins, Trustees, and Justin Hayes, Clerk. 

In the war of 1812 the township filled its quota promptly. The able- 
bodied men had been so reduced by voluntary enlistments that when the draft 
was made in that portion of the town where a company had been raised, there 
was only one man liable to duty. Joel Baker was drawn and he hired a sub- 
stitute; Asa K. Burroughs was a Captain. Amongst those who went into the 
service were William Coolman, Jr., Job Thompson, Jr., George Barnes, Hez- 
ekiah Hine, Lyman Hine, Daniel Burroughs, Jr., and Joel Baker, the last by 
proxy. Capt. Campbell's company, to which they belonged, was included in 
the surrender of Hull, and they were sent to Maiden and paroled. 

At the breaking-out of the Rebelliou Shalersville rushed to the rescue of 
the Nation with a promptitude and zeal that placed her among the front ranks. 
During the war she sent 108 soldiers to the field, and thirteen of them laid 
down their lives in the contest for the right, while six others were disabled. 

About 1815 Asa Burroughs went in search of his cows which, according to 
the custom, or necessities, of the times, had been turned loose in the woods. 
He went in the direction of Freedom, but somehow got turned around in his 
mind so effectually, that, although he had a pocket compass with him, he 
believed the instrument pointed just the opposite of what it ought to, and fol- 
lowing this guide, mistaking the east for the west wandered along far into the 
night and the next morning he found himself at Garrettsville. 

In 1812 Horace Burroughs was going homethrough the woods at about sun- 
set, half a mile east of the Center, when out walked, in front of him, an 
immense bear, which seemed bent on disputing the path with Burroughs. The 
latter, however, swung a shovel he had in hand, but the bear still advanced, 
when Horace, thinking it a good "time for disappearing," backed out, keeping 
his eyes on Bruin, who did not follow. Getting arms and assistance Burroughs 
returned, but the bear, evidently suspecting foul play, scampered off into the 
forest. 

Rattlesnakes were common, and numerous adventures and narrow escapes 
were related. Mrs. Goodell, the mother of the wife of Squire Crocker, was one 
day spinning at her wheel, when she heard an accompaniment to the buzzing 
noise of the machine, and listening close to the floor heard that peculiar 
z — ing, which, when once heard close to one's person in field or woods is never 
forgotten. His snakeship was routed out and killed; he measured six feet, 
two inches. 

About 1825 Squire Crocker, while surveying in the southwest portion of the 
township, came across a pile of stones five or six feet high and about eight feet 
in diametei'. They were placed in order, and evidently brought some distance 
from where they were. What the purpose of them was and when they were 
placed there, is only a matter of conjecture. They may have been the work 
of Mound-Builders, but there are no other indications of that mysterious race 
having located in this county; yet, it is possible that in passing along — having 



SHALERSVILLE TOWNSHIP. 557 

lived both east and west of this point — they may have erected this pile as a 
temporary altar. The Indians never were guilty of doing as much work as the 
placing of those stones required, so we cannot blame them for this piece of 
mystery. 

On the return of Jonas Goodell, who came to Shalersville from Vermont to 
locate lands, he reported "that he was homesick on account of it being so wet 
and muddy; but he found a small piece a leetel rollin. " This piece is now 
known as Goodell Hill, certainly one of the largest hills in the county. 

There is a huge boulder lying in a field nearly opposite Squire Crane's 
place, that was originally about 20x30 feet and eight or ten feet in height. 
It lies perfectly isolated from any rock of its kind, and is one of those masses, 
or a portion of one, that were transported to this section in the glacial period, 
when this whole country, from the Atlantic Ocean far westward, was covered 
with slowly moving ice. This rock was first broken from its original bed in 
an upheaval by volcanic force, and then when the ice which had formed 
around it began to move southward it was carried onward, rolling slowly over 
and over until it became rounded and smooth; then when the thaw began, it 
slowly sank through the ice and remained where we now find it. 

The township is well watered, the Cuyahoga River and its tributaries 
affording a plentiful supply in the northern and northwestern sections, while 
smaller streams traverse the township in various directions. The land is 
highly productive, the soil being peculiarly adapted to the potato, and many 
thousands of bushels of the finest in the world are produced annually. In 
the season of 1884 one field north of Shalei'sville Center contained forty acres 
of the best varietie of this essential article of food. Cheese, also, forms one 
of the staple products, and the township stands No. 3 in the quantity manu- 
factured. Considerable grazing and raising of stock is done, while the usual 
farm crops are produced, some of the finest farms in the county being here. 
The County Infirmary is located in the southwest part of the town. 

In the Center there are one general store, the postoflice, and two hotels, two 
physicians, a saw-mill, and one church building, used by both the Christian 
and Methodist denominations, neither of whom have any settled pastor. There 
are a number of good schools scattered throughout the township. 

The statistics for 1884 are as follows: Acres of wheat, 1,630, bushels, 
17,606; bushels of rye, 105; oats, 1,032 acres, 38,490 bushels; barley, 200 
bushels; corn, 9,650 bushels from 412 acres; 2,729 tons of hay from 1,420 
acres; 1,219 tons of hay from 752 acres of clover, and 177 bushels of seed; 
694 acres of potatoes gave 75,242 bushels; milk sold for family use, 28,100 
gallons; home-made butter, 37,934 pounds; factory butter, 70,797 pounds; 
cheese, 613,860 pounds; maple sugar, 11,081 pounds; syrup, 3,340 gallons, 
from 15,290 trees; 2,035 pounds of honey from 61 hives; 32,441 dozens of 
eggs; 295 acres of orchard; 8,377 bushels of apples; 67 bushels of peaches, 
8 of pears and 5 of plums; 5,427 pounds of wool; 1,234 milch cows; 2 stall- 
ions; 121 dogs; killed, 11 sheep; animals died of disease, 12 hogs, 27 sheep, 
23 cattle, and 10 horses; acres cultivated, 5,861; in pasture, 7,329; woodland, 
3,046; waste, 243; total, 16,479 acres. Population in 1850, 1,190, including 
439 youth; in 1870, 977; in 1880, 960; in 1884 (estimated), 900. 



558 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 



CHAPTER XXXIL 
STREETSBORO TOWNSHIP. 

Eapid Settlement— Some Well-known Names— Cleveland & Wellsville 
Turnpike — Organization — No Paupers Wanted — Early Liberality 
AND Enterprise — A Few First Events — Churches and Schools— Busi- 
ness, Officers, etc— Statistics. 

STREETSBORO, Towii 4, Range 9, was originally owned by Titus Street, of 
Connecticut, one of the members of the Connecticut Land Company, who 
held back his property for many years after most of the townships in Portage 
County had been settled up and organized, in order to get a higher price for 
his land; in fact, it was not surveyed, except as to boundaries, till 1822, in 
which year Ralph Cowles laid off into lots of 100 acres the 15,279 acres com- 
prised in the township, and Lemuel Punderson was appointed agent for the 
sale of them; $6 per acre was the price fixed upon, but as it was considerably 
above the average price of wild land on the Reserve, very little was sold. Pun- 
derson died the following year, 1823, and shortly afterward Amzi Atwater, of 
Mantua, was appointed agent for Street, and the price lowered to from $2 to 
$5 an acre, in consequence of which many settlers came in from that time 
forward. 

Early in the fall of 1822 Stephen Myers, Jr., came into the township 
and settled on the southwest corner of Lot 82, he having, in conjunction with 
George Walker, pm'chased sixty acres of that lot. He made a clearing, put 
out a small crop, and erected a cabin. The following summer he with his 
partner. Walker, erected a building for the purpose of distilling whisky, 
which business they conducted for about six years, when the still-house was 
converted into an ashery. In 1823 Samuel Walker, from Hudson, moved in 
and settled on a portion of Lot 82. 

In 1824 and 1825 quite a number of persons came in, not only from Con- 
necticut and Massachusetts, but several from other townships in the county. 
About the latter year, among those who are remembered by the oldest settlers 
were Solomon Carlton, Levi M. Cochran, Michael Stewart, Ephraim W^ood, 
Riley Miller and Daniel M. Johnson. Wood built a house on the southeast 
corner of the Center, Lot 56, which he sold to Chauncy Case several years 
afterward. Benjamin Doolittle, from Connecticut, came in the fall of 1825, 
made a clearing and built a log-cabin on Lot 50, where he lived for many 
years, a prominent citizen and a good and useful man. He was elected Justice 
of the Peace in 1827, at the organization. 

The location of a turnpike from Cleveland to Wellsville being decided 
upon in this year, 1825, Street, who was a very enterprising, and when the 
occasion arose, a very liberal man, ofifered to donate land sufficient for the 
road if the managers would run said road through the township, which was 
agreed to, and he made the company a deed for 840 acres, which was an 
exceedingly wise business transaction, as this liberal policy soon brought his 
land into demand, for at the completion of the road settlers flocked in from all 
quarters to secure the tine farms offered at the low price asked. The road was 



.'^^^' 



1 






/i^^ 





t?^u^^ 



STREETSBORO TOWNSHIP. 561 

completed in 1827, but before that time the township was rapidly settling up. 
In 1826, or thereabouts, came George Powers from Connecticut, who took up 
his quarters in a cabin erected by the workmen while building the road. It 
stood just a little west of the Center, and gave place many years ago to better 
improvements. About this time came Chauncy Case, Jr., Alvin Loomis, 
Alpheus Streator, Gideon H. Mills, Heman Thomas, Alonzo Root and others. 

In 1826 Col. John C. Singletaiy built a log-house on Lot 45, the northwest 
corner of the Center, into which Riley Cochran moved, and the following sum- 
mer he boarded the hands while they were constructing the frame building 
into which Col. Singletary moved the following spring of 1828. He opened 
there the lirst tavern in the township, and his was the first frame house at the 
Center, and in which he lived till his death in 1851. In the spring of 1827 
Frederick Nighman bought a portion of Lot 80 and built a log-cabin upon it. 

Streetsboro was the last township organized in the county, leaving Gar- 
rettsville out of the enumeration. It was, in 1800, made a portion of Hud- 
son, now a township of Summit County, and so remained until 1806, when it 
became a portion of Aurora, under whose convoy it sailed till 1821, when 
Aurora cut loose from it, and Mantua took it under her wing and kept her 
safely there till 1827, when the township thought herself big enough to go 
alone, which she has done, and with credit to herself, too, standing for years 
No. 1 in the manufactiire of cheese, and high in other products. 

April 2, 1827, an election was held for officers. Levi M. Cochran, Chauncy 
Case, Jr., and Alvin Loomis were Judges of Election, and Ephraim Wood, 
Jr., and George Powers, Clerks. The following were selected: Trustees, Ben- 
jamin Doolittle, Daniel H. Johnson, Ephraim Wood, Jr.; Clerk, Alpheus 
Streator; Treasurer, Chauncy Case, Jr.; Overseers of the Poor, Alvin Loomis, 
Levi M. Cochran; Fence Viewers, Riley Miller, Alonzo Root; Constables, Gid- 
eon H. Mills, Heman Thomas. 

Benjamin Doolittle was elected Justice of the Peace, and the first suit 
before him was George Powers vs. Alvin Loomis. Loomis hired Powers to do 
a piece of work on the turnpike, but Powers not finishing it in a manner sat- 
isfactory to Loomis, the latter refused to pay for it, when he was sued for the 
amount. The Justice found for the defendant and Powers appealing to the 
Court of Common Pleas was beaten there also. The expenses of the township in 
those early times did not exceed $20 annually. 

The Overseers of the Poor, who more properly should have been termed the 
Rooters-out of the Poor, were very efficient officers, and were determined 
that Streetsboro should have no poor to oversee; so, accordingly, three days 
after the election of those officials, they issued an order to Constable Thomas 
to notify James Walker and family to leave the township, to which they paid no 
attention, but a second order being served some time afterward on Walker, ac- 
companied by the information that if he did not wish himself and family to 
be put up for sale to the highest bidder, they quickly took themselves off. In 
1829 Erastus Smith and family, and in 1830 Atlander Eddy and family, were 
ordered to vacate the sacred soil of Streetsboro. One old woman, Sally 
Fleming, would not leave, so they put her up on the block and sold her for 
$12 for two months. This was March 1, 1831. In 1832, January 11, Justus 
VVelen, was ordered to leaVe; on the 12th, Micah Richardson and family, and 
on the 17th Julius Granger and his daughter Almira were notified. About 
the same time Mrs. Catharine Dexter and family, and William Beeman, 
received their walking papers. Where the poor people came from, and what 
their condition was, doth not now appear, but no drones were wanted in the 
Streetsboro hive. 



562 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUxNTY. 

It has already been stated that through the wise foresight and liberality 
of Titns Street, the road from Cleveland to Wellsville was constructed through 
Streetsboro, he contributing largely in land for that purpose. The road was 
the first extensive thoroughfare through this section, and was the route over 
which the famous old mail carrier and contractor, Jabez Gilbert, of Palmyra, 
familiarly known as "Moses Jabe," and "Old Mose," passed over, an account 
of whom and his exploits may be found in the chapter on Palmyra. Street 
gave an acre of ground at each corner of the Center, exclusive of the roads 
for a public square, and a stone was placed in the center thereof, to desig- 
nate the exact center of the township. He also donated two aci'es a short 
distance south of the Center for a burial ground, and gave $60 to have it and 
the public square cleared off. 

The first frame house in the township was built by David Johnson, at 
Johnson's Corners, in the spring of 1827. Street had offered to give $50 to the 
person who would put up the first frame house, and Johnson won the prize. 
The first house erected at the Center was by Levi M. Cochran, in the sum- 
mer of 1825. It was a log-house, and stood on the southeast center lot. The 
first saw-mill was erected at Johnson's Corners, in the northwest corner of the 
township, by David Johnson. The first stage coach over the State road passed 
through in 1829, Jabez Gilbert driving. 

In the fall of 1823 a child was born to Samuel Walker, which lived only a 
few hours, that being the first birth and first death in the township. The 
first death of an adult was the wife of Solomon Carlton, shortly after the 
burial ground was laid off, and she was the first interred there. 

The first wedding was that of Frederick Nighman and Parmelia Van, 
November, 9, 1826. The ceremony was performed by Squire Mills, of Hud- 
son. 

The first school was opened in June, ]826, by Clarinda Case, in the north- 
west corner of the township. She also cooked for her father and other men 
employed on the road. This schoolhouse was erected by David Johnson, the 
owner of a saw-mill at Johnson's Corners, and attending it were five of his chil- 
dren, and three of Case's children. Three and one-half years later a district school 
was opened inSingletary's original log-house, by Almira Taylor. The growth 
of educational interests since that time is shown by the following statistics: 
Revenue in 1884, $5,657; expenditures, $3,642; 9 schoolhouses valued at 
$3,800; pay of teachers, $34 and $31; enrollment, 103 boys, and 88 girls. 

There is at the Center a Presbyterian Chui'ch with a good membership and 
a prosperous Sabbath-school. Rev. A. C. Barrows is pastor and Newton 
Sperry Superintendent of the Sunday school. 

The Methodist Episcopal Society have a neat building and a fair member- 
ship, with a good Sunday-school. Rev. Mr. Jacobs is pastor and E. E. Olin 
Superintendent of the school. 

A Baptist Church having a good membership and a thriving Sunday-school 
is also at the Center. Rev. A. M. Eley is pastor and J. T. Judd Superin- 
tendent of the school. 

In addition to the burial-ground donated by Mr. Street, there is a very 
beautiful spot devoted to the dead — Evergreen Cemetery — which also is town- 
ship property. Evergreen Cemetery Association, of Streetsboro, was organized 
May 10, 1864. W. S. Hill was Chairman, and Albert Doolittle, Clerk; Enos 
Payne, John Thompson, Elin Olin, Osmund Thomas, Lewis Green and Albert 
Doolittle, Ti'ustees. 

Township Officers. — Trustees, Wallace Root, E. H. Wait, J. W. Ellsworth; 
Clerk, F. M. Wilcox; Treasurer, N. D. Peck; Assessor, Lynn Hawkins; Con- 



SUFFIELD TOWNSHIP. 563 

stables, Erving Niman, William Ferguson; Justices of the Peace, N. D. Peck, 
P. Y. Barnes. 

At the Center there is a general store, by N. D. Peck, and a grocery by C. 
W. Stewart N. D. Peck is Postmaster. The Central Telephone Company 
have atoll-station here. A tine brass band furnishes excellent music occasionally. 
There are five cheese factories in operation in the township, and cheese making 
is the principal industry, averaging over 600,000 pounds of cheese annually. 
There is a singular industry carried on about one mile southwest of the Center, 
there being very few factories of the kind anywhere: Charles E. Peck is 
engaged in the manufacture of glass cutters' tools. N. S. Olin & Son conduct 
a large stock farm two miles southeast of the Center, known as the Cuy- 
ahoga Stock Farm, and have a fine herd of short-horn cattle. The township 
furnished eighty-one soldiers for the defense of the Union, and eleven were 
either killed or died in the service, and eight disabled. 

The statistics of the township for 1884 are: Acres of wheat, 738, bushels, 
7,067: rye, 3 acres, 25 bushels; buckwheat, 5 acres, 20 bushels; oats, 555 acres, 
22,178 bushels; coi'n, 602 acres, 8,801 bushels (shelled); meadow, 2,329 acres, 
3,143 tons of hay; 295 tons of clover, and 108 bushels of clover seed from 259 
acres; 76 acres of potatoes yielded 7,169 bushels; home-made butter, 8,098 
pounds; factory butter, 138,292 pounds; cheese, 397,992 pounds; maple sugar, 
7,340 pounds, syrup, 1,894 gallons, from 7,923 trees; honey, 1,710 pounds, 
from 75 hives; eggs, 5,160 dozens; orchards, 183 acres, apples, 2,846 bushels; 
wool, 3,669 pounds; milch cows, 1,594; dogs, 69; killed, 11 sheep; animals died 
of disease, 13 hogs, 25 sheep, 29 cattle, 2 horses; acres cultivated, 4,331; in 
pasture, 7,693; woodland, 1,881; waste, 564; total, 14,469 acres. Population 
in 1850 was 1,108, including 392 youth; in 1870, 706; in 1880, 702; in 1884 
(estimated), 700. 



CHAPTER XXXIII. 
SUFFIELD TOWNSHIP. 

A Fine Township— One Lonely Settler— Benjamin Baldwin, and the 
"Baldwin" Apple— Other Settlers— Honest John Fritch— A Noted 
Hunter — Two Organizations- A "Flustrated" Justice— First Mills, 
Stores, etc. — Coming or the Germans— First Churches and Schools — 
First Birth and Death— Mogadore — Suffield Center — A Duplex 
Town, etc.— Statistics, etc.— Business, Resources and Officers. 

SUFFIELD, at the division of the Reserve lands, fell to the lot of par 
ties in Connecticut, living at Suffield, the principal one of whom was 
Benejob Kent. Royal Pease also owned a considerable portion of the 
land, and as he was the first to come out the township was known as Pease- 
town, being in the surveys Town 1, Range 9. The township was slow of 
settlement, and although it was one of the first in the county to I'eceive a set- 
tler, yet some sixteen years elapsed before it was regularly organized. The 
land is highly productive, and although somewhat hilly throughout and 
swampy in the lower sections, it is finely adapted to wheat. It is excellent for 
sheep and general grazing, and the soil being principally a sandy, light grav- 
elly loam, with the many southerly exposed uplands, makes it peculiarly well 



564 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

adapted to grape culture. Fruit is raised easily and abundantly, and it is 
here that originated the famous "Baldwin" apple. One of the first settlers, Ben- 
jamin Baldwin, brought with him from his home in Connecticut a large quan- 
tity of apple seeds, gathered at diiferent times and from many orchards. He 
planted some of these seeds and gave some to his neighbors. In a few years 
he had a fine young orchard, and among the bearing trees he found an apple 
that was particularly tine. Only here and there was a ti*ee of this kind, so he 
wondered where he had obtained the seed that grew such good fruit, and no mat- 
ter how much he puzzled over it, he could never think where they came from. 
From those few trees the "Baldwin" apple has spread, not only over Ohio, but 
to many other States. 

About the 1st of May, 1802, Eoyal Pease started from his home in Con- 
necticut and made his way slowly and with many hardships to his land on the 
Reserve, arriving here in June. He located on what was known as the Kent 
place, where he made a clearing, built a cabin, and put out his first crop. It 
must be remembered that 1802 was quite an early date to be in the woods of 
Ohio, for there were at the time probably not much over a dozen families in 
the county of Portage, or rather what is now Portage, There were no roads 
leading to where Pease settled, and not a human being nearer to him than five 
or six miles. He had many neighbors, however, in the dense forests that sur- 
rounded bim — entirely too many — and their bowlings through the long and 
dreary nights of this tii'st winter in the wilds was enough to " fright the souls" 
of sterner men than Royal Pease. 

In April, 1803, arrived Benjamin Baldwin from Connecticut, the origi- 
nator, as stated above, of the "Baldwin" apple, and at the same time came Elia- 
kim Merriman, also from Connecticut. In the same month David Way and 
family moved in, and located on the northern part of Lot 9. 

The first birth was that of a daughter, Rebecca, to David Way, in Decem- 
ber, 1803. The first death, that of Orestes Hale, son of Samuel Hale, occurred 
in June, 1805. The first couple married after the organization were Alpha 
Wright and Lucy Foster. 

In 1804 John Fritch, a Pennsylvania German, arrived, and made his set- 
tlement at the small lake southwest of the Center, for whom it has since been 
called Fritch's Pond. This lake is about one mile in diameter, and is one of 
the sources of the Little Cuyahoga River. Here honest John, the first of the 
Germans to make this township their habitation, but who have since come in 
in such numbers as to form fully three- fourths of the population, erected a 
mill, which was a great accommodation to the settlers, but in the construction 
of the dam it uncovered considerable soil, which bred malarious diseases, and 
it had finally to be destroyed, thereby putting an end to the mill as well. 
Also in this year came from Connecticut Daniel Warner, and soon after Ezekiel 
Tupper, Bradford Waldo and Champlin Minard, the latter in 1816 removing 
to Brimtield Township, where he remained. Waldo built the first house in 
Mogadore on the Sufiield side 

In 1805 Martin Kent and family, and Jonathan Foster, a single man, came 
in. Foster afterward married Betsey Eggleston, of Aurora, moved to Mantua, 
became a prosperous farmer, a useful citizen, and for many years was a Jus- 
tice of the Peace, besides tilling the position of Associate Judge. Both him- 
self and wife died in 1867. In this year came Samuel Hale and his two sons 
Thomas and Orestes, the latter dying shortly after his arrival, from small -pox, 
which he had contracted at Pittsburgh. The father died in 1808 and was the 
tirst person interred in the grave-yard north of Josiah Kent's. 

Settlers now began coming in more frequently, and in 1808 quite a number 



SUFFIELD TOWNSHIP. 565 

arrived, among whom was Moses Adams from Massachusetts. He had a large 
family of children, but his wife died on the road out. In 1810 he was elected 
Justice of the Peace and served nine years; he also represented Portage 
County in the Legislature. Mr. Adams took as his second wife Sarah Packer, 
a widow with six children. His son Horace, born in 1811, is now a hale and 
hearty old gentleman. His father settled on Lot 48. Moses Adams, Jr. , was 
a noted hunter in his day, also Miles and Hiram Culver and John Fritch, and 
many are the stories related by the old settlers of how they would bring a fine 
buck in before breakfast, or a bear, or a brace of turkeys. 

In April, 1808, Springfield Township was organized, embracing the terri- 
tory of six townships now included m this and Summit Counties. Benjamin 
Baldwin was elected the first" Justice of the Peace, and about his first oflicial 
act was to marry Fi-eeman Upson and Sally Culver. 

Sufiield with its present boundaries was organized April 6, 1818, and at the 
request of some of the land owners in Sufifield, Coan., was so named in place 
of retaining the unofficial title, Peasetown, by which it had been known. At 
the election held at the house of Thomas Hale, Martin Kent was chosen 
Chairman; Thomas Hale, Clerk, and Samuel Hale and Isaac Miller, Judges, 
the election resulting as follows: Trustees, Martin Kent, James L. Van Gor- 
der, Ebenezer Cutler; Clerk, Thomas Hale; Treasurer, Samuel Hale; Overseers 
of the Poor, Isaac Harget, John Martin; Lister and Constable, Arad Upson. 
On the 7th day of May, following, Thomas Hale was elected Justice of the 
Peace. On May 15, 1818, the first list of taxable property was filed by Arad 
Upson, with the Township Clerk, Thomas Hale. The present Township Offi- 
cers are: Trustees, G. F. Newbaur, Joseph Paulus, George Lutz; Clerk, G. D. 
Fritch; Treasurer, Lawrence Memmer; Assessor, J. B. Stine; Constables, Lewis 
Knapp, Henry Weaver; Justices of the Peace, William Paulus, M. O. Martin. 

Suffield sent to the war for the Union 10-1 gallant boys in blue and twelve 
of them were sacrificed on the altar of their country. 

In 1807 Harvey Hulbert presided over a school of nine pupils. In the 
summer of 1809 Laura Moore (Mrs Thomas Hale), presided over a school of 
six pupils in the same house where Hulbert taught in 1807. The present con- 
dition of schools is shown by the following statistics: Revenue in 1884, $4,- 
936.48; expenditure, $3,083.15; number of houses, 10, valued at $10,000; pay 
of teachers, $20; enrollment, 220 boys and 185 girls. 

Mogadore Union School District. — Revenue in 1884, $497.70; expenditure, 
$414.35: one schoolhouse valued at S2,000; pay of teachers, $35 and $55; 
enrollment, 66 boys and 59 girls. 

Methodist Episcopal Church was organized in 1875, a house of worship 
erected in 1876, is served by Rev. Harshman, of Mogadore. The membership 
enrolled is about thirty. John Royer is Superintendent of the Sunday-school, 
and Isaac Slabaugh, Steward. 

Suffield Reformed Church was founded in 1841, by Rev. Ham, of Manches- 
ter, under the name German Reformed Church. In 1883 the society was reor- 
ganized under the present name with sixty-five members, and Rev. J. H. Beek, 
pastor, who was succeeded by Rev. J. A. Novinger. The house now occupied 
by the Newbauer family contains the logs of the first church; the frame of the 
second building is now Smith & Walter's store. In 1882 the present church 
was erected at a cost of $3,500. The Trustees are G. F. Newbauer, Daniel 
Bolander, Ambrose Garris and Newton Cook. 

St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Randolph Township claims a large number 
of its members from this township (see Randolph Township). 

The first store was opened in 1816, by James L. Van G order, at the mill, 



566 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

when he was trying to find out, like the rest of the owners of that property, 
what it was best suited for. The next store was opened in Mogadore, in 1827, 
by William Kichards, on the lot owned by Dr. J. C. Ferguson. The first 
postoffice was established iu 1833, one mile and one-fourth west of the Center, 
and Benjamin Fritch was the first Postmaster. The first tavern was opened in 
1840, by Seth Dustin, at the Center. 

In 1835-37 a large German immigration set into the township, and as lands 
were cheap, soon largely increased the population. The emigrants brought 
with them principles of strict economy, industry and honesty, and they have 
made Suffield " blossom as a rose." Some of the best farms to be found any- 
where are here; splendid orchards everywhere, and the finest barn on the 
Reserve can be seen on the road between the Center and Brimfield. 

On the 18th of May, 1825, a fearful wind storm passed through the town- 
ship from southwest to northeast. It was a genuine cyclone, and tore down 
trees as though they were so many dry weeds, killing quite a number of cattle 
and destroying all buildings in its path. It also passed across the southeast 
corner of Brimfield, and other points to the northeast. 

Mogadore. — This village lies exactly upon the line dividing Portage from 
Summit County, and most of the business is on the west side of the line. The 
name is singular, and it is not known who suggested it. There is only one 
other Mogadore, and that is in Africa. The stores are in Summit County, but 
there are here two large potteries, operated respectively by Monroe & Son, and 
Martin Bros.-, also a steam clay-mill, a water clay-mill, a cider-mill and a 
grist-mill. There is a tile factory one mile from this village, and a pottery 
two miles therefrom. S. Bitterraan keeps a hotel. Drs. Ferguson & Bowers 
are the physicians. Dr. Francis Schuck lives in the east part of the township. 

Suffield Center. — General stores, Geidlinger Bros., Smith & Walter. Car- 
riage factory, Michael Bletzer. Harness shop, F. E. Schumacher. Carriage 
shop, Nicholas Luly. Tinners and slaters, F. C. Sweeney & Co. Physician, 
Dr. F. P. Russell. Postmaster, C. R. Geidlinger. There is at the Center a 
Reformed Church, no pastor, and a Methodist Episcopal Church, pastor. Rev. 
G. L. Norris. 

The Fritch Mills at Fritch's Pond were erected in 1805 or 1806; but owing 
to the miasma generated by the damming of the pond, the whole industry was 
declared a nuisance, and the dam destroyed. The second mill was built by 
James Shields, who sold it to Van Gorder. After passing through many 
hands, Daniel Harper converted it into a carding shop. Sometime after this 
David Ely put in saw-mill machinery and operated it for some years. In after 
years David and Samuel Ely established a pottery here. 

Nicholas Luly's carriage shop on the east side of the village was estab- 
lished many years ago. About 1878 Mr. Luly established it as a carriage shop. 
He gives employment to five men. 

The new Fritch saw-mill was established seventeen or eighteen years ago, 
by G. W. Fritch. This mill employs three men annually. In 1884 he put 
up a cider-mill and operated it that fall. 

The harness shop was established by F. C. Sweeney and Jacob Ebell three 
years ago (February, 1882). In 1884 they sold their interests to F. E. Schu- 
macher (at the time he sold his carriage shop to Michael Bletzer) who carries 
on the work of harness making. Ambrose G arris is employed here. He has 
worked at this trade in the township over twelve years. 

The carriage and wagon factory of Michael Bletzer was started by F. E. 
Schumacher seven years ago. This industry gives employment to three hands. 

George Michael established the first harness shop and Ambrose Garris the 
second. 



WINDHAM TOWNSHIP. 567 

There is a Schweitzer kase factory near the southern border of the town- 
ship, where is manufactured an article almost equal to the imported. A num- 
ber of schoolhouses dot the township at different points. The business of 
pottery is the largest interest in the township, the clay being obtained across 
the line in Summit County. 

The statistics of the township for 1884 give the following figures: Acres 
of wheat, 2,556, bushels, 41,005; rye, 2 acres, bushels, 26; oats, 1,226 acres, 
46,544 bushels; corn, 1,203 acres, bushels, 33,851; meadow, 717 acres, 1,062 
tons of hay; clover, 977 acres, 1,373 tons of hay and 547 bushels of seed; 
flax, 15 acres; potatoes, 151 acres, 18,938 bushels; home made butter, 53,835 
pounds; honey, 462 pounds from 77 hives; eggs, 22,887 dozens; vineyards, 
3 acres; sweet potatoes, 1 acre; orchards, 362 acres; apples, 11,832 bushels; 
peaches, 154 bushels; pears, 97 bushels; plums, 82 bushels; wool, 5,595 
pounds; milch cows, 520; dogs, 142; killed, 6 sheep; animals died of disease, 
48 hogs, 161 sheep, 27 cattle and JO horses; acres cultivated, 7,564; in past- 
ure, 2,223; in woodland, 1.904; waste land, 1,410, total, 13,101 acres. Pop- 
ulation in 1850 was 1,275, including 626 vouth; in 1870, 1,444; in 1880, 
1,530; in 1884, 1,550 (estimated). 



CHAPTER XXXIV. 
* WINDHAM TOWNSHIP. 

The Becket Land Company —The March Westward— Some Early Settlers 
— Organization and Officers — Churches and Preachers — Initial 
Events of Interest— Primitive Educators— Building and Enterprise- 
Business— Grand Army— Township Officers— Statistics. 

WINDHAM was owned originally by Gov. Caleb Strong, of Massachusetts, 
Lemuel and Asahel Pomeroy and Ebenezer Hunt, Strong owning 
twelve-thirteenths of the wj^ole property which in the survey was known as 
Town 4, Range 6. 

On the 11th day of September, 1810, the following persons met at the 
house of Thatcher Couant, in Becket, Berkshire Co., Mass., for the purpose of 
forming a company to purchase a township in New Connecticut and remove 
there: Bills Messenger, John Seeley, Jeremiah Lyman, Aaron P. Jagger, 
Benjamin C. Perkins, Elijah Alford, Alpheus Streator, Benjamin Higley, 
Elisha Clark, Isaac Clark, Ebenezer Messenger, Thatcher Conant, Nathan 
Birchard, Enos Kingsley, Gideon Bush and Dillingham Clark. The company 
being formed, a committee of one, Dillingham Clark, was appointed to wait 
upon Gov. Strong and ascertain upon what terms thej could purchase the 
township, nearly all the land of which he held. A favorable report having 
been made by Clark, the company appointed him and Jeremiah Lyman to pro- 
ceed to their proposed purchase and explore it, which they did, returning 
in about six weeks with accounts that the purchase was closed with the 
proprietors, Strong and the Pomeroys. Hunt in the meantime had disposed of 
his interest to the two latter. The terms of the sale were that the purchasers 
should turn over to the sellers their property in Massachusetts at its appraised 
value, and in this way Gov. Strong's interest was entirely paid for. The sale 



568 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

was consummated in November, and the price per acre was $1.76, there being 
about 14,845 acres. Tlie deed was made to "Dillingham Clark, Esquire, 
Alpheus Streator. yeoman, and Thatcher Conant, gentleman." The township 
having been surveyed into 100 equal lots, each purchaser had the pvoportion, 
according to his investment, deeded to him, the south half of Lot 56 being 
previously reserved for public use, an act of wisdom of those early settlers 
that is fully appreciated by their descendants. Dillingham Clark, afterward 
so well known as one of the best and wealthiest citizens of Portage, having 
invested 16,000, became the owner of nearly one-fourth of the township. The 
name of the township was then changed from its survey title to Strongsburg. 

Having made all arrangements necessary for a departure to the Western 
country, the company selected four young men to go in advance and prepare 
the way for the rest of them. These young men were Elijah Alford, Jr., 
Oliver Alford, Ebenezer O. Messenger and Nathan H. Messenger. They came 
on foot, and had a sled and horse to carry their baggage. Arriving on the 16th 
day of March, 1811, they immediately commenced a settlement. The Alfords 
made a clearing on Lot 84, and erected a cabin twenty feet in length by fifteen 
in width, which was the first house in the township. The Messengers erected 
a cabin on Lot 82, and made a clearing at the same time. On the clearing 
opened by the Alfords a crop of wheat was put out for them in the following 
fall by Col. Benjamin Higley, who, from three bushels of wheat sown on four 
acres, harvested lOQ bushels the next season, which was the first crop raised in 
the township. Elijah Alford, however, remained only two months, when he 
returned to Becketand gave many discouraging reports of New Connecticut, but 
returned to his Western home in a couple of years. Ebenezer O. Messenger 
also made several changes and finally moved to Wisconsin. On the 27th of 
same month Wareham Loomis and family moved into the township and settled 
on Lot 92. He moved in from Nelson, where he had lived for some time, and 
remained only until the following year, when he settled in Mantua. Loomis 
was not a very valuable acquisition to the township as he was '' half crook, 
half crank," as he would now be called, and although he was a kind-hearted 
and accommodating fellow, could not keep his hands off of other people's prop- 
erty. As stated in the history of Mantua, he wound up his career in Portage 
with a twelve years' term in the penitentiary for passing " home-made " money. 
On the 12th of June of this year, 1811. Bills Messenger, the farst one of the 
proprietors to come in, arrived with his son Hiram and his family, for the 
purpose of establishing his son in his new home. The old gentleman remained 
only about three months, when he returned to the East. Hiram settled 
on Lot 76. Joseph Southworth, a single man, came in with the Messengers. 
On the 5th of July Alpheus Streator arrived and settled on Lot 85. Mr. 
Streator was a kind and good neighbor and an excellent citizen. He died in 
1829, leaving forty-seven descendants, living in ten diiferent States. On the 
13th of July Thatcher Conant and Jeremiah Lyman arrived, but did not com- 
mence their settlement till the 27th; they settled upon Lot 86. On the 15th 
Col. Benjamin Higley came in and settled on Lot 36. On the 20th Ebenezer 
N. Messenger, father of Ebenezer O. Messenger, who had been sent on ahead, 
came in and settled on Lot 82, which his son had commenced to clear. Gideon 
Bush also came in and settled on Lot 77. On the 12th day of October 
Deacon Elijah Alford arrived and settled on Lot 57. Nathan Birchard also 
came in this year, 1811, from Becket, Mass., but not for permanent settlement, 
as he left his family in the East till he could make a clearing and erect a 
cabin. On the 30th of June following he moved his family in. 

The names of some of the early settlers who came in during the first eight 




f^s 



M.tAJA}-Brn "^Qn^^^f^ 



WINDHAM TOWNSHIP. 571 

or ten years will be given, all of whom are now deceased: Asahel Blair, who 
drove one of Mr. Birchard's teams, came in 1812; he enlisted in the war of 
that period and was killed at Black Rock, near Buffalo, in 1814. Dr. Ezra 
Chaffee also came in this year, was married shortly afterward and removed to 
Palmyra in 1814. Oliver Eggleston, who afterward removed to Mantua, came 
in this year. In 1813 Ephraim Seely, son of John Seely, one of the proprie- 
tors, came in on foot and commenced preparing a home for his father. 
Erastus Snow, in company with Nathan Snow, Stillman Scott and H. Crane, 
arrived this year on foot. 

January 2, 1814, Dillingham Clark, one of the proprietors who was born 
in the vicinity of Cape Cod, but who in early life moved west, but still in 
Massachusetts, came in, and up to the time of his death was one of the most 
honored citizens of the county. Jacob Earl, a brother of Deacon Robert 
Earl, and James Snow, father of Erastus Snow, also came this year. 

In 1815 John Seely, an old Revolutionary sire, came in, as did also 
Daniel Jagger, who was considerable of a property holder when he came here, 
and afterward getting wealthy was a liberal contributor to all worthy objects, 
giving at one time $100 toward the payment of an organ for his church. Joseph 
Higley came this year. In 1816 came Joel Bradford, Deacon Robert Earl, 
"William Hobart, Ezra Taylor, and Rev. Joseph Treat, a Congregational min- 
ister. In 1817 came Joseph Earl, Levi Ellis, Deacon Isaac Clark, Jonathan 
Foot, Reuben Ferguson, James Robe, Xenophon Wadsworth, and Benjamin 
"Wroth, who soon after went away and returned in 1820. In 1818 came 
Deacon Henry Bliss, Levi Bush, Joseph Belong, Samuel Foster, Stephen B. 
Pulsifer, and many others. In 1819 Jason Streator, an erratic genius with 
a weakness for poetry, came and lived till 1838, when he moved to Shalers- 
ville; also came Nathaniel Ruddand Moses Sanford. In 1820, among a number 
of others, came William Millikan, a native of Massachusetts, a self-made 
man of energy and activity, and with great capacity to lead in any move- 
ment. 

March 2, 1813, the township, which had been informally christened 
Strongsburg, and which, with Nelson, was included in the township of Hiram 
for election pui'poses, was set apart and the name changed to Sharon, as Gov. 
Strong was an unflinching Federalist, and opposed the Government in the war 
then raging with England, thereby rendering himself extremely unpopular with 
the settlers on the Reserve. On the first Monday in April following an election 
was held which resulted as follows: Trustees, Thatcher Conant, Benjamin 
Higley, Jeremiah Lyman; Overseers of the Poor, Hiram Messenger, Thatcher 
Conant; Fence Viewers, Levi Alford, Ephraim H. Seeley; Lister and Appraiser, 
Ebenezer N. Messenger; Constable, • Hiram Messenger; Treasurer, Oliver 
Alford. On the 15th of November following, Deacon Elijah Alford was elected 
Justice of the Peace, seventeen votes being cast, and but one ticket was in the 
field. There was little use for a Conservator of the Peace in those harmonious 
times, and not a case appeared upon the virgin docket of the old Justice for 
nearly two years, when, as the best of friends will fall out sometimes, Hiram 
Messenger sued Thatcher F. Conant for $3, for an otter he had sold him. 
Messenger discovered a hole, where he saw an otter go in, so he put a stone at 
the hole and afterward sold otter, stone, hole, etc., for the sum named, but the 
buyer found nothing, and refused to pay. The plaintiff gained the suit, but 
the defendant threatening to appeal, the Justice paid the amount. In 1820 
the name of the township was changed to Windham. The first child born in 
the township was to Mrs. Hiram Messenger, October 27, 1811, but it never 
opened its eyes, dying at its birth. The first living white child was a girl, born 

30 



572 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

to Wareham Loomis, August 27. 1812. The first death was that of Miss Lucy- 
Ashley, on the 6th of April, 1812. 

The first wedding occurred June 11, 1812, when Dr. Ezra Chaffee married 
Miss Polly Messenger. The Doctor was a man of exceptional ability in his 
profession, and it was a great loss to the settlement when he moved away in 
18 1-1. The next marriage was that of Levi Alford and Miss Edna E. Conant, 
a daughter of Thatcher Conant. She was a school-teacher of considerable 
reputation, and when she gave up teaching for household duties her place was 
difficult to till. 

In 1811, shortly after the first settlers arrived, Dillingham Clark donated 
a plat of ground at the Center to be used as a burial-ground, but in 1817 the 
present beautiful location was selected, and the remains of the seven persons 
buried in the first grounds were transferred to the new cemetery. A singular 
coincidence in regard to quite a number of the early settlers is that they died 
at sixty-six years, or thereabout, some seven or eight passing away at that age. 
Up to 1823 the township was remarkably healthy, bat in this year there were 
eleven deaths. In 1818 a benevolent society was formed for the purpose of 
rendering assistance to the worthy, as well as for missionary work. 

The early settlers of this district, before starting out on their long jour- 
ney, organized themselves into a Congregational Church, and selected Deacon 
Elijah Alford, who had held the same position over their church at Becket 
since 1807, as their Deacon in the New Connecticut. Thatcher Conant was 
Clerk of the church, and the day after his arrival in the settlement, which was 
Sunday, the 14th of July, 1811, religious services were held at the house of 
Alpheus Streator, attended by all the settlers, forty- two in number. On the 
last day of August following the first sermon was preached at the same place 
by Rev. Nathan B. Darrow. 

The Congregational Society was reorganized under State law, February 
25, 1876. T. O. Angel was Moderator; C. F. Jagger, Clerk; E. P. Clark. W. 
Chaffee, Jason Angel, M. G. Donaldson and William A. Perkins were elected 
Trustees. 

By the spring of 1817 the township had made such progress that the pop- 
ulation had grown to 203 persons, comprised in thirty-seven families, and they 
sorely felt the need of a building in which to hold any public meeting, and 
especially religious services, so a hewn- log structui'e was reared at the Center, 
30x24 feet, and comfortably finished, in which, on the 24th of September, the 
Rev. Joseph Treat was installed as pastor of the First Congregational Church 
of Sharon, he having previously received a "call " from the new organization, 
and which relation he held till October 2, 1827. In 1828, the church feeling 
the need of a building of their own, instituted such measures that in 1829 a 
commodious and tasteful building was commenced, and finished in 1830. 

The Disciples of Christ, on May 27, 1828, organized a church society, 
which met in a schoolhouse on the State road, near where it crosses Indian 
Creek, but in 1834 erected a neat brick building at the Center. 

Up to 1843 the Methodists held service, at the houses of the members of 
that church and other places, but in that year they erected a small building, 
which was shortly afterward burned down and the following year built an 
elegant and commodious edifice at the Center. The society was reorganized 
June 16, 1871, when Bidwell Pinney, J. C. Ensign, William Moore,. F. D. 
Snow, George S. Belden, C. L. Weed, Royal Buckley, Daniel Stroup, Clark 
L. Bryant were elected Trustees. James Greer, P. E., was present. In 1884 
the work of building a new church was entered upon, and on February 8, 1885, 
the building was dedicated. The basement is divided into Sunday-school 



WINDHAM TOAVNSHIP. 57S 

rooms and vestibule. The audience room is arranged much after the manner 
of the majority at the present time — platform for preacher and singers at end 
farthest from the doors, and gallery at opposite end from platform. The 
church is heated by furnaces. It is covered with a slate roof, and cost, com- 
pleted, about $9,000. The principal contributions were: Amount subscribed, 
$5,000; amount left by will from Mrs. Seeley's estate, $700; amount donated, 
$2,134. Among the principal articles and amounts donated are: Moving old 
church, G. S. Pinney, $50; bell, John Patterson; chandelier, Moses A. Birch - 
ard; stone, Pinney Bros. ; Ladies' Aid Society, $250. The bell weighs about 
1,000 pounds. 

The lirst school in the township was taught gratuitously in the house of 
Alpheus Streator by his daughter Eliza, and Rebecca Conant, daughter of 
Thatcher Conant, in the winter of 1811-12. They taught alternate weeks. 
Miss Streator married Mr. Cochran, of Aurora, in 1823, and Miss Conant mar- 
ried Leander Sacett, of Tallmadge, in 1822, and went to Maumoe as a mission- 
ary. In the fall of 1812 a log schoolhouse was erected on Lot 86, near where 
the stone schoolhouse was afterward erected, and Dr. Chaffee taught school the 
following winter, having about twenty scholars, there being then thirteen fam- 
ilies in the township. From this time on schools were maintained. An edu- 
cational association was formed in 1834, for the purpose of affording better 
facilities for instruction in the higher branches, and accordingly an academy 
building was erected and in 1835 chartered by the Legislature, a school being 
opened in the spring of that year as the " academy," by John F. Hopkins. 

In 1824 a library association was formed, and about 100 volumes collected 
and placed in charge of one of the members. Not much interest was taken in 
the project and it went down, but in 1851 a new association was formed and 
regularly chartered, since which time it has been quite successful, having now 
about 500 select volumes. 

The statistics of schools are as follows: Windham schools, revenue m 
1884, $2,855; expenditures, $1,940; number of houses, 8, valued at $5,000; 
teachers' average pay, $36 and $24; eni'ollment, 92 boys and 78 girls. 

Windham Special School District, revenue in 1884, $5,054; expenditure, 
$4,734; two schoolhouses, valued at $6,178; average wages of teachers, $40 
and $65; enrollment, 49 boys and 62 girls. Population in 1870, 865; in 1880, 
1,029; in 1884, 1,100 (estimated). 

November 6, 1813, Jacob Earl and Benjamin Yale erected the first frame 
building in the township. It was a saw-mill, located about half a mile south- 
west of the Center. April 16, 1814, Nathan Birchard erected the first frame 
barn, and April 11, 1816, the same gentleman erected the first frame dwelling- 
house. In this year from an orchard set out by Ebenezer N. Messenger, 
peaches were raised, and in 1818 some apples were taken from trees grown 
from seeds brought from Massachusetts seven years before. In June, 1817., 
Deacon Isaac Clark arrived, and July 11 he opened a stock of goods in a Ice- 
house at the Center. They were valued at $500, and he sold calico at 60 cents 
per yard, cambric at 80 cents and fulled cloth at $1.75; tea was $1.50 and 
pepper 50 cents per pound. The first Postmaster was Dillingham Clark, 
appointed in 1818, and he had his office at his house on the State road. la 
1820 Thomas Lee, a blacksmith, opened for business on Lot 54. In 1825 a 
distillery was started, but it did not last long. In 1829 Henry E. Canfield 
opened a cabinet shop in the house of Col. Benjamin Higley. In 1824 the 
first regular practitioner of medicine. Dr. John S. Matson, came in, and set- 
tled, but Windham was too healthy for him, and he left in a few months. 

The Atlantic & Great Western Railroad runs from east to west across the 



574 HISTORY OF PORTAGE COUNTY. 

township, and the Cleveland & Mahoning Valley Railroad, runs across 
the northeast corner. The former has a station near Windham Center and 
the latter at Mahoning. They are both now a portion of the system of the 
New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Road. 

Earl-Millikan Post, No. 333, G. A. R., was organized June 29, 1883, with the 
following named original members: B. F. Lovett, C. W. Hoskins, W. W. Ran- 
dall, I. N. Wilcox, H. C. Hastlerode, O. L. Earl, G. A. Merwin, W. H. Dor- 
worth, G. S. Pinney, P. R. Higley, T. O. Angil, H. B. Walden, E. S. Wood- 
worth, F. C. Applegate, F. D. Snow, J. A. Snow, L. L. Kinney. The names 
of Commanders are B. F. Lovett and C. W. Hoskins; the names of adjutants, 
P. R. Higley, G. A. Merwin, T. O. Angil; names of members other than orig- 
inal members, W. A. Higley, J. S. Chapman, H. D. Walker. The present 
number of members is twenty. 

Portage Lodge, No. 456, I. O. O. F., was organized July 25, 1870, by W. 
Chaffee, who has been D. D. G. M. for four years. This lodge is one of the 
most prosperous in the district. 

Windham Center. — Two general stores, Higley & Bosley, J. B. Harrison & 
Co.; hardware and furniture, H. J. Noble; drug store, E. S. Shaw; tin-ware, 
H. A. Wadsworth; carriage shop and furniture, J. W. Furry; saw-mill and 
pail factory, Hunt Bros.; basket factory, wagon, blacksmith and barber shops; 
physicians. Dr. F. C. Applegate, Dr. B. B. Longhead; dentist, E. S. Shaw; 
Postmaster, B. A. Higley. There are two stone quarries open northwest of 
the Center. 

There is at the Center a Methodist Episcopal Church, with Rev. H. S. 
Jackson, pastor; Congregational Church, Rev. T. R. Jones, pastor. An excel- 
lent high school is taught in a fine new building that cost $6,000; Prof. Duane 
Tilden, Principal. At Mahoning Station M. G. Donaldson is Postmaster, who 
also is station agent and runs a coal yard. A beautiful soldiers' monument 
stands at the Center, which was erected in 1866 at a cost of $1,100. It is 
twenty-one feet in height, and is exquisitely wrought from white Italian mar- 
ble. Windham furnished thirty-eight soldiers for the Union during the 
Rebellion, sixteen of whom were either killed or died. 

Township Officers. — Trustees, John Keller, Samuel Yale, Joseph Birchard; 
Treasurer, D. W. Bosley; Assessor, P. R. Higley; Clerk, J. W. Furry; Con- 
stables, M. D. Higley, P. B. Higley; Justices of the Peace, L. B. Reed, J. B. 
Harrison. 

The statistics for 1884 are: Acres of wheat, 961, bushels, 10,917; buck- 
wheat, 8, bushels, 86; oats, 767, bushels, 22,028; barley, 6 acres; corn, 3J0, 
bushels, 4,563; meadow, 2,073 acres, 2,770 tons of hay; clover, 27 acres,. 39 
tons of hay, 14 bushels of seed; flax, 26 acres, 254 bushels of seed; potatoes, 
64 acres, 14,910 bushels of seed; home made butter, 52,273 pounds; cheese, 
5,100 pounds; maple sugar, 13,862 pounds, syrup, 9,438 gallons, from 36,227 
trees; hoaey, 300 pounds, from 30 hives; eggs, 4,216 dozen; orchards, 213 
acres; apples, 4,277 bushels, peaches, 63 bushels, and pears, 25 bushels; wool, 
13,388 pounds; milch cows, 570; stallions, 1; dogs, 109; acres cultivated, 
5,357; in pasture, 4,835; in wood-land, 2,694; waste land, 40; total, 12,926 
acres. The population in 1850 was 813, of which number 310 represented the 
youth; in 1870 the number was 865, and in 1880 1,029. The estimated popu- 
lation at present is about 1,200. 



PART IT. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES, 



ATWATEK TOWNSHIP. 

E. D. BAITH, member of the firm of Baith & Jackson, merchants, Atwater, 
is a native of Atwater Township, this county, born in 1854, son of Amos 
and Mary A. (Kump) Baith, natives of Mahoning County, Ohio, who settled in 
Atwater Township, this county, in 1850. They reared a family of five chil- 
dren, all of whom are now living: E. D., Hattie (wife of L. C. Porter), Ella 
(wife of E. R. Spires), Albert and Anna. Our subject was brought up on a 
farm and followed agricultural pursuits until 1883, when he purchased the 
interest of Brush and Alden, of the firm of Brush, Alden & Butler. In 1884 
Mr. Jackson succeeded Mr. Butler, and the firm became Baith & Jackson. 
They carry a general stock of merchandise worth about $10,000, and do an 
extensive business. Mr. Baith is a member of the Congregational Church. 

MRS. E. H. BEACH, P. O. Atwater, was born February 6, 1817, in Dur- 
ham, Greene Co., N. Y. ; daughter of Eliakim, Jr., and Frances Stannard, 
natives of Connecticut, born May 16, 1786, and March 22, 1790, respectively. 
They wei'e the parents of nine children, viz.: Adaline, Antoinette, Harriet, 
Lucinda M., Edward, Lucy, Piatt, Mary, Eliakim. Mrs. Beach's grandpar- 
ents were Eliakim, Sr., and Bethia Stannard, of Puritan stock, both natives of 
Connecticut, former born August 31, 1753, and latter born July 15, 1759. 
Lucinda M., our subject, was twice married, on first occasion November 26, 
1843, to Ransom Hinman, born in Greene County, N. Y., in 1813, and who, 
when but a child, came with his parents to this county, where he passed the 
remainder of his life, dying December 22, 1857. Our subject afterward, 
May 1, 1861, was united in marriage with E. H. Beach, also a native of New 
York, born in Victor. Mr. Beach came to this county in 1861 and is highly 
respected and favorably known in this community. 

NELSON BENJAMIN, farmer, P. O. Atwater, was born in Greene County, 
N. Y., September 15, 1814, son of Richard and Jerusha (Clark) Benjamin, 
natives of Connecticut, who were among the early settlers of New York State, 
where they both died. The subject of this sketch is the only living child born 
to this couple. He came to this county in 1846 and began the work of his life 
without means, but possessed of untiring energy and perseverance. He cleared 
the farm, consisting of 175 acres, where he now resides and which is finely 
improved. Mr. Benjamin was married, in his native county, to Miss Adeline 
Stannard, born May 20, 1811. Their generation is as follows: Piatt, married 
to Nellie Baldwin (have seven children: AddieL., Frances S., Pearl R., Mabel 
G., Ray L., Chester and Josephine); Frances, wife of Amos Whitten, residing 
in Boston, Mass. (have the following children: Chester H., Edgar B., Charles 
N. and William M.); Cyrus, married to Jerusha Blakesley (have three chil- 



578 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

dren: Bertie S. , Mamie and Freddie L.); Amos, married to Josephine G. 
Whittelsey, resides at home. 

LUTHER BUTLER, retired farmer, P. O. Atwater, was born in North 
Branford, Conn., in 1801; son of David and Betsey Butler, who were among 
the pilgrims of 1827 to Atwater Township, this county, where they located on 
land now occupied by our subject, and there lived to the close of their lives. 
Of thirteen children born to them, seven survive. The subject of this sketch 
served seven years as Drum Major in the militia, and took an active part as 
drummer in the Presidential Campaign of 1884, joining in most if not in all 
the torch-light processions and parades, and he is ever happiest when in the 
ranks beating the drum. He was married, in 1830, to Miss Eliza Jones, by 
whom he has the following children: Lyman W., Lucius F., Susan S., and 
Henry W., married to Weltha Wintersteen (they have two children: Albert H. 
and Arthur W.) In 1880 Mr. and Mrs. Butler celebrated the fiftieth anniver- 
sary of their wedding day, when there were present, besides other guests, thir- 
teen grandchildren. 

W. W. CLEVERLY, farmer, P. .0. Atwater, is a descendant of one of the 
pioneers of Atwater Township, where he was born in 1835; son of William 
and Eliza Cleverly, natives of New York and Maryland, respectively, who were 
the parents of six children, five of whom are now living (the oldest being 
dead): W. W. ; Eliza, wife of J. E. Garrison, of Junction City, Kan.; 
Fannie, wife of E. Ellison; Abbey, wife of William Ripple, of Warsaw, Ind.; 
and Frank. Mr. and Mrs. William Cleverly located in Atwater Township 
in 1831, settling on land now owned by Charles Bradley, Jr., and both died in 
the township. Our subject was married, in 1861, to Miss Lydia, daughter of 
John Webber, of Deerfield Township, this county. By this union were born 
five children: Chase, Charles, John, Florence and Bertie. In 1862 Mr. Cle- 
verly settled on his present farm of 107 acres, which was then wholly 
wooded but he has cleared about sixty acres, has erected a fine commodious 
brick residence, and is making other improvements. 

THORNTON DOUTHITT, farmer, P. O. Atwater Center, was born in Edin- 
burg Township, this county, October 11, 1831; son of Daniel and Rachel (Pum- 
phrey) Douthitt, the former born in Pennsylvania, the latter a native of Huron 
County, Ohio, and Avho joined the early settlement at Edinburg. They were 
parents of twelve children, of whom the subject of this sketch is the third. 
Daniel Douthitt, in the latter part of his life, removed to Hardin County, 
Ohio, where he died in February, 1881, Mrs. Douthitt dying in 1849. The 
subject of this sketch was brought up on a farm with scarcely any educational 
advantages outside the severe discipline of labor, which taught him economy. 
Honesty, perseverance and regular habits, giving him a vigorous constitution, 
combined with a natural ambition to achieve success, seconded by excellent 
judgment, have caused him to more than equal his greatest anticipations. 
Neither early habits nor later indulgences have weakened him in body or 
mind, using neither strong drink nor tobacco. He married, February 16, 1852, 
at Atwater, Ohio, Miss Matilda Ann Siddull, second child of Mahlon and Eliza- 
beth (Gould) Siddall, of Atwater, Ohio. Mrs. Douthitt was born April 1, 
1831, and in all the laborious undertakings of her husband has borne her 
equal share, acting nobly and truly a self-sacrificing part. She is a kind 
friend, afi'ectionate mother and good wife; their home being ample and suffi- 
ciently ornamental to dispense to a large circle of friends that free-hearted 
hospitality for which they are justly noted. She (Mrs. Douthitt) has borne 
our subject five children: Andrew M., born April 20, 1853, admitted to the bar, 
but engaged in teaching (has two children: Bertha Ann and Dudley M.); 





ann^-'-x^^ 



tom^ut^ 



ATWATER TOWNSHIP. 581 

George F., born June 12, 1856, a teacher in the Union Schools, but preparing 
for the practice of law; Jennie T., born September 10, 1864, mai*ried, January 
1, 1885, to H. Alva Myers, a teacher; Thomas D., born January 27, 1867, 
engaged in teaching: Clinton A., born June 1, 1870, attending school and 
helping his father on the farm. During the late war Mr. Douthitt located on his 
present farm of 225 acres, clearing it of timber, etc., besides several other large 
tracts, and with the revenue received from the railroad company (in payment 
for thousands of cords of wood) he has paid for the farm and liquidated other 
large obligations. The majority of the family are regular attendants on the 
service of the Methodist Episcopal Church, but not any are members of any 
religious denomination. In politics Mr. Douthitt is an unswerving disciple of 
Jefferson, but although living in a township overwhelmingly Republican, 
his fellow- townsmen have seen fit to repose in him the responsible position of 
Real Estate Assessor in 1880, and Township Trustee for three terms. 

JAMES B. ELTON, farmer, P. O. Atwater, was born in Atwater January 
14, 1848, son of Erbin and Caroline (Woodruff) Elton, and grandson of 
Ebenezer and Emily Elton, of Piiritan stock, who came from Connecticut in 
1833 via canal to Buffalo, thence by lake to Ohio, and settled on the land now 
occupied by their son Erbin. Mrs. Caroline Elton came with her parents. 
Chancy and Perlina Woodruff, from Farmington, Conn., to Atwater Township, 
this county. They had with them their seven childi'en: Havey, Ezekiel, 
Henry, Caroline, Cornelius, Cornelia and Alfred, and after coming here had 
two more — Sarah and William. Ebenezer and Emily Elton had six children: 
Lucella, married Watrous Fairchild Taylor; Erbin, married Caroline Elton; 
Elizabeth, married John Norton; Harriett, married Lucius Walker; Edwin, 
married Harriett Knapj), aud Ebenezer, died at the age of two years. Ebenezer 
Elton lived to enjoy pioneer life but a short time, dying December 22, 1835, 
aged forty-three. At hia death, Erbin, who was but a boy at the time, took 
charge of the homestead and diligently cleared it of timber, etc., and still 
makes it his residence. He had four children: Edwin, died April 18, 1870, 
aged twenty-six; those now living are James B., born in this township in 1848, 
(married, in 1871, Miss Sarah Hacock, by whom he has two children: lona A. and 
Edwin); Henry, a farmer, Windham Township, this county (married Miss Eliza 
Hacock, June 26, 1883, have two daughters: Carrie and Nina); Emily, married 
October 8, 1879, to Earnest Youngman, farmer, Windham Township, this 
county. The family are highly esteemed and respected members of the 
Methodist Episcopal Chvirch. 

THOMAS W. GILSON, farmer, P. O. Atwater, was born in Oil Creek 
Township, Crawford County, Penn., in 1823; son of William and Mary (Laf- 
ferty) Gilson, natives of Pennsylvania, both now deceased. Of their chil- 
dren, John, Alice, Peter, Margaret and Thomas W. are now living. Our sub- 
ject spent the greater part of his life in his native county, and has always been 
a farmer by occupation. He was married, in 1846, to Miss Cynthia Fowler, a 
native of Crawford County, Penn., who died January 19, 1876, the mother of 
five children, viz.: M. H. , M. W. , L. A., A. T. and E. L., who have been 
spared to care for their father and his home through the declining years of 
his life. In 1865 Mr. Gilson purchased and settled on his present estate, 
comprising 120 acres, now one of the best cultivated farms in Atwater Town- 
ship. He and his family are highly respected in this community. 

HOMER HILLYER, retired, was born in Deerfield Township, this 
county, November 17, 1815; son of Daniel and Charity (Loomis) Hill- 
yer, natives of Southwick, Mass. The family, along with a colony of 
seventy-five persons, embarked for the West in 1815, and were forty-four days 



582 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

on the road, settling in this county daring October, 1815. Daniel Hillyer was 
a farmer and did considerable surveying in Atwater and Randolph Towuships. 
Of the six children born to him and his wife, three are now living: Homer, 
Joseph T. and Edwin, the two younger now residents of Dodge County, Wis. 
Homer Hillyer was brought up on a farm and was married, June 11, 1845, to 
Miss Hannah Cooney, a native of Columbiana County, Ohio, who died Janu- 
ary 17, 1865, without issue. He was married, on second occasion, September 
6, 1865, to Miss Celinda C. Crail,born in Beaver County, Penn. Mr. Hillyer 
was appointed station agent at Atwater on the C. & P. R. R. at the time it was 
built and acceptably served in that capacity until 1884, when he resigned, 
being one of the oldest agents on the road, and retired to enjoy the well- 
earned results of his labors. He has been a member of the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church for years, and is widely known and esteemed by all. 

IRA JACKSON, firm of Baith & Jackson, merchants, Atwater, was born 
in Mt. Vernon, Knox Co., Ohio, in 1853, and is an adopted son of Josiah and 
Lucy A. (Phinney) Jackson, former of whom, now in his seventy-ninth year, 
is a native of Rutland County, Vt., and the latter of Dover, Ohio. The family 
settled in Freedom Township, this county, at an early date and cleared a farm 
where they resided until their removal to this village. The subject of this 
sketch served an apprenticeship of ten years at Ravenna in merchandising, 
and in the spring of 1884 formed the present partnership. This firm are suc- 
cessors to Brush, Alden & Butler, the leading business house of Atwater. Mr. 
Jackson married, August 15, 1877, Miss Mary F., daughter of Capt. J. C. Long, 
of Nantucket, commander of a whaling vessel for years, but now living a 
retired life in Ravenna. The children born to this union are William and 
George. Mr. Jackson is a member of the Congregational Church; a member 
of the Royal Arcanum. 

S. W. JOHNSON, farmer, P, O. Atwater, was born in New Haven County, 
Conn., in 1825; son of Levi and Eliza (Riggs) Johnson, who crossed the 
country, arriving in this county in 1834, and settling in Rootstown Township, 
where the father purchased a farm and founded a home. In 1846 Levi John- 
son removed to Atwater Township, where he lived till the close of his life, 
August 25, 1862. His widow is now in the eighty-sixth year of her age. Of 
the children born to this couple, but two survive: S. W. and Henry. The 
subject of this sketch was married, in 1849, to Miss Sally, daughter of Ste- 
phen Wooley, deceased. His living children are James R. and Eliza, wife of 
B. F. Hathaway, present Clerk of Atwater Township. In 1850 Mr. Johnson 
settled on a farm of 100 acres in the northern part of Atwater Township, on 
which he resided until 1882, when he moved to his present farm, comprising 
sixty acres, situated near Atwater Station. He has spent a life-time of labor 
and toil in clearing land and creating from the wilderness scenes of growth 
and abundance. 

JOHN KENNEDY, section foreman Cleveland & Pittsburgh Railroad, P. 
O. Atwater, was born inTipperary, Ireland, in 1819; son of John and Ann Ken- 
nedy. He crossed the ocean in 1851 and began the struggle of life, posses- 
sing a vigorous constitution, strong ambition and an honest heart as his only 
capital. He made his way to the "West" and worked for two months on the 
Akron branch of the Cleveland, Mt. Vernon & Delaware Railroad. In 1852 
he was appointed to his present position, and has proved, by his careful appli- 
cation to business, one of the best, as he is one of the oldest, men in the com- 
pany's employ. He was married first to Miss Mary A. Sebrell, who died in 
1871, leaving four children: Ellen, Ann. John and Patrick. He was married, 
on second occasion, to Mrs. Margret Coats, who died in March, 1883. Mr. 



ATWATER TOWNSHIP. 583 

Kennedy, who has ever been temperate and frugal in habits, in 1864 was 
enabled to purchase his present farm, consisting of 128 acres of land. 

WILLIAM W. KETTRING, farmer, P. O. Atwater, was born in Atwater 
Township, this county, in 1842; son of Jacob and Rachel (Petrie) Kettring, 
natives of Baden, Geruiany, the former born in November, 1815, the latter in 
1822, the respective families immigrating to America in 1831. They were the 
parents of six sons: William W., George, Joshua, Jacob, Caleb and Eli. Jacob 
Eettring, Sr., cleared forty acres of land in Atwater Township, this county, 
where he engaged in farming till his death. His widow, who survives him, is a 
resident of Atwater, this county. Our subject was brought up on the farm, and 
has always followed agricultural pursuits. In 1862 he joined the Union Army, 
enlisting in Company C, One Hundred and Eleventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry, 
serving till the close of the war. He participated in the battle of Stone 
River, siege of Knoxville, the Georgia and Atlanta campaigns, Franklin, Ft. 
Fisher and Nashville under Thomas, and received an honorable discharge as 
Corporal in July, 1865. Returning to peaceful pui'suits he was married, in 
1867, to Miss Lucy A., daughter of Thomas Gilson, of Atwater Township, this 
county. Six children were born to this union, all now living: Henry, Clara, 
Charles, Maggie, Edith and Mary. Mr. Kettring is a member of the I. O. O. F. 

JOHN MANSFIELD, farmer, P. O. Atwater Centre, was born in Walling- 
ford. Conn., November 18, 1806; son of Ira and Susan (Kirtland) Mansfield, 
who had a family of six children, of whom our subject is the only survivor. 
His grandfather, John Mansfield, was an officer of some distinction in the 
Revolutionary struggle. Ira Mansfield, his father, better known as Maj. 
Mansfield, made his way through the wilderness of Ohio in 1806, and suc- 
ceeded in making a trade of land with Joshua Atwater, the original proprietor 
of the township, securing 360 acres. Returning to the East he brought his 
family back with him in 1808, and here founded a home. This land he sub- 
sequently sold, and purchased 150 acres near the present homestead. He 
raised a company of volunteers for the war of 1812, in which he took an 
active part. While in camp at Detroit his trusted clerk decamped with $1,500 
of his money. For a time this crippled him, but his untiring ambition soon 
enabled him to retrieve the loss. Ira Mansfield's death occurred in Atwater in 
1849. His widow survived him until 1851. Oui- subject was married, in 1833, 
to Miss Mary Hall, also a native af W^allingford, Conn., and who has borne 
him two sons: Ira K., residing at Chicago, 111, is married to Emma J. Cook 
(their living children are Mary M., Susan M. and Bessie I.); Silliman S., 
married to Margaret Goss, they reside in Atwater Township, this county, 
(Their children are Charles K., Alfred H., Pearl Vi., Henry L., Carrie J., 
Frankie G. and Ira S.). Mr. Mansfield is among the oldest settlers of 
Atwater Township. He has served as Assessor several terms, and has ever 
taken an active part in the development of his township. 

EDGAR H. MANSFIELD, farmer, P. O. Atwater, was born May 4, 1843, 
in Atwater Township, this county; son of Henry E. Mansfield, born in Wal- 
lingford. Conn., August 16, 1803, and grandson of Maj. Ii'a Mansfield, a 
pioneer of 1807 to Atwater Township. Henry E. Mansfield was twice mar- 
ried, first to Miss Jane Stanly, a native of Newton Falls, Trumbull Co., 
Ohio, who died April 2, 1837. Jane, the only surviving child of this union, 
married M. D. Motherspaw, and is the mother of two children — Harry and 
Frank — and grandmother of Carl and Ruby. His second union was with Ann 
S. Stanly, a sister of his deceased wife, born August 16, 1815, daughter of 
Nathaniel and Mary (Moore) Stanly, the former born November 15, 1768, died 
August 13, 184S, the latter born August 22, 1772, died June 11, 1847, and who 



584 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

had thirteen children, of whom two survive: James, born July 23, 1801, and 
Ann S. There are seventy-nine living descendants of this couple. The sub- 
ject of this sketch was married, in 1869, to Miss Lora E., daughter of Will- 
iam Campbell, a native of Atwater Township, this county. This family and 
its connections are among the oldest and most respected in Atwater Township; 
they are both industrious and successful, walking in the steps of their fore- 
fathers. 

SIDNEY A. MATTOON, farmer, P. O. Atwater, is a native of Atwater 
Township, this county, born December 25, 1832, son of Caleb and Betsey (Hall) 
Mattoon, of Connecticut, and grandson of Caleb Mattoon, one of the earliest 
pioneers of this township, coming here from Connecticut with an ox team. Here 
he cleared a farm comprising 100 acres and lived the balance of his life. The sub- 
ject of this sketch was united in marriage, in Atwater Township, this county, 
January 9, 1856, with Miss Elizabeth, adopted daughter of Aaron Baldwin. This 
union has been blessed with five children, four now living: Charles A., Jessie, 
Estella and Edwin. In 1858 Mr. Mattoon settled on his present farm of 240 
acres. He is Trustee of the Congregational Church and Superintendent of the 
Sabbath-school The family are among the oldest and most respected in 
Atwater Township. 

JOHN MYEKS, Atwater, Ohio, was born in Berlin Township, Mahoning 
Co., Ohio, December 22, 1828, son of Daniel and Polly Myei's from Pennsyl- 
vania, and early pioneers of Mahoning County, Ohio. The subject of this 
sketch had not the advantages of acquiring an education that many boys, even 
of his time, possessed. Arithmetic was his "main fort," and in that branch 
he got as far as the "double rule of three." His constant practice in com- 
pound numbers, interest, percentage and mensuration has made him so proficient 
in these departments of arithmetic, that better scholars than he frequently 
acknowlege his superiority in these departments. When about twenty years 
old he commenced to battle with life for himself, and his first undertaking 
was a contract to cut 100 cords of four-foot wood at 25 cents per cord for John 
Boles, of Campbellsport. Taking for a partner his brother Henry, they accom- 
plished the feat in ten days, going to and from their work twice during the 
time, a distance of fifteen miles. With his share of the proceeds, as part pay- 
ment, Mr. Myers purchased a "Cantield grain thresher" for which he paid 
$200. This was his first investment, and he continued to follow threshing for 
sixteen years. In February, 1851, he was married to Miss Sophia Betts, a 
native of Columbiana County, Ohio, but who when two years old moved with 
her parents to Trumbull County, Ohio, where she lived until united in marriage 
to Mr. Myers. Our subject and wife spent one year of their married life in 
Berlin Township, and in the fall of 1852 they moved to Atwater Township, 
this county, on the farm where they now live, consisting of 120 acres, for which 
Mr. Myers paid $17.50 per acre; about ten acres of this farm were cleared 
off when Mr. Myers moved ; on it, but being possessed of a strong constitution 
and a tireless ambition, with the best elements of character and natural frugal- 
ity, his life's work has been crowned with merited success. He is owner of 
over 500 acres of land in Atwater Township, and notwithstanding the vast 
apaount of labor connected with operating such a farm, he has always taken 
an active interest in educational matters, giving his children every advantage 
of acquiring a thorough education. The record of his family, all of whom are 
now living, is: AV. C, born November 3, 1852; Lucy A., born July 11, 1854, 
married to L. I. Glass; Chester A., born December 16, 1856, married to Clara 
E. Hawn; H. Alva, born August 20, 1859, married to Jennie T. Douthitt; 
Vinnie M., born August 27, 1861; Eddie M., born December 11, 1864; Hattie 



ATWATER TOWNSHIP. . 585 

J., born January 8, 1867; Jesse O., born May 26, 1870, and Worthy Allen, 
born December 14, 1873. Six of these have taught school, viz.: VV. C, 
Chester A., H. Alva. Vinnie M., Eddie M. and Hattie J. Mr. Myers is a 
strong supporter of Democracy, casting his first Presidential vote for Franklin 
Pierce, and voting for every Democratic candidate for President since that 
time. 

HENKY NICHOLS, farmer, P. O. Atwater Centre, was born in Fairfield, 
Columbiana Co., Ohio, September 20, 1825, son of Nasin and Elizabeth 
(Gould) Nichols, natives of New York State, where the former died when our 
subject was but two years of age. The widowed mother, with her son, came 
West and located in Ellsworth, Mahoning Co., Ohio, and three years later 
removed to this county, settling in Edinbtirg Township, where she was mar- 
ried,' on second occasiou, in Columbiana County, to Mahlon Siddall, by whom 
she had eleven children, nine of whom are now living: Marilda J., George W., 
Matilda A., Louisa and Elisha (twins), Lovinia, Keller, Isaac and Melissa. 
The subject of this sketch has been a resident of Atwater and Edinburg 
Townships, this county, since 1834 and experienced all the hardships incident 
to pioneer life. Between his residence and Atwater Center the road covers 
hidden timber which he helped to fell in order to obtain a pass through the 
woods. He has been twice married, first in 1850 to Miss Mary K. Lynn, born 
in Limestone, Fayette Co., Penn., September 29, 1831, and who died in 1874, 
the mother of two children, both now living: Frances J., wife of Jerome Hux- 
ley, of Princeton, Kan. (have two children: Dallas H. and George E ), and 
Samuel E., residing in Atwater, married to Ada Wireman (have two sons: 
Bernard H. and Walter). Mr. Nichols was married on second occasion, in 
1875, to Miss Eliza, daughter of Jesse and Emily Rogers, a pioneer family. 
Mr. Nichols in 1866 settled on his present estate, comprising 126 acres, where 
he has established a permanent home. He and his wife are connected with 
the Disciples Church of Edinburg. 

JOHN NORTON, farmer, P. O. Atwater, one of the oldest native resi- 
dents of Atwater Township, this county, was born here in 1813; son of Jerry 
and Rachel (Hubbard) Norton, who journeyed fi*om Connecticut in 1812, with 
ox teams and one horse. They had two children with them, were six weeks on 
the road, and located in Atwater Township, this county. They had a family 
of twelve children, of whom five are now living: Sarah, wife of Daniel Hall, 
in Richmond, Mich.; Mary, wife of Isaac Elliott; John; James; and Ellen, 
wife of Henry Beebe. Jerry Norton in the latter years of his life removed to 
Randolph Township, where he died. Our subject was married in Edinburg, 
this county, March 11, 1846, to Miss Elizabeth Elton, of Atwater Township. 
Their only child (adopted), Martha, married Z. Strong and has three children: 
Willie, Henry and Landa. Mr. Norton lives on the homestead farm consist- 
ing of 100 acres. He has served his township as Treasurer. 

JAMES SPIERS, farmer, P. O. Atwater, was born in England, October 
16, 1813, son of Thomas and Ann (Parkins) Spiers, with whom he immigrated 
to this country in 1833, and located in Deerfield Township, where Thomas 
Spiers died the following week. In 1840 our subject secured fifty acres of 
his present estate, now comprising eighty-two acres, which at that time was 
wholly wooded. A road through the forests had to be cut to make a clearing 
for the erection of a cabin. Their bread was baked in a kettle suspended on 
poles, over a fire, and they experienced all the other hardships and privations 
incident to a pioneer's life. He was married in Boardman, then Trumbull, 
now Mahoning County, Ohio, February 29, 1844, to Miss Betsey, daughter of 
Peter and Elizabeth Webber, by whom he has the following children living: 



586 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Milo; Lucy, wife of Charles Craig (have one child — Ethel M. ), and Celeste, 
residing at home, the joy and solace of her parents' declining years. The fam- 
ily are widely known and highly esteemed. 

C. J. STANFORD, member of firm of Stanford & Mendenhall, furniture 
dealers and undertakers, Atwater, was born in Randolph Township, this county, 
September 7, 1841. His father, Orrin Stanford, a native of Connecticut, 
came to this county when a youth, with his father, Oliver, who was one of the 
pioneers of Randolph Township. Orrin Stanford married Eliza Coe, a 
daughter of Deacon James Coe, Sr. , who was born in Granville, Mass., March 
19, 1769, and settled in Randolph Township, this county, in 1811. The Coe 
family came to this country from the County of Suffolk, England, where their 
ancestors for many generations back had resided. Robert Coe, of Milford, 
Suffolk, was burned at the stake by orders from Queen Mary, September, 1555. 
Robert Coe (of the ninth generation) is the first of this name who came to this 
county. The svibject of this sketch learned the carpenter's trade of his father, 
and worked at the same until he joined the Union Army, in 1861, enlisting in 
Company A, Forty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and serving three years. 
Ho participated in the battles of Middle Creek, Ky., under Garfield, Pound 
Gap, Siege of Vicksburg, Arkansas Post, and in other skirmishes. After his 
return he worked at his trade until 1877 when he opened a furniture store and 
undertaking establishment at Edinburg. In 1880 he removed his business to 
Atwater, and in 1883 Mr. Mendenhall was admitted a partner in the concern. 
Mr. Stanford was married, March 15, 1883, to Miss Nina Mendenhall, by 
whom he has one son — William. 

W. H. STOCKBERGER, carriage manufacturer, P. O. Atwater Center, was 
born in New Lisbon, Columbiana Co., Ohio, in September, 1841, son of Fred- 
erick and Elizabeth Stockberger, who emigrated from Germany in 1835. 
They were married at New Lisbon and settled at Atwater Center in 1854. 
Their family consisted of four children: Caroline, W. H., Daniel and Lizzie. 
Frederick Stockberger was a carriage-maker by trade, and established tha 
present business here, which he carried on to the close of his life, in 1878. 
His widow is still surviving. The subject of this sketch was married in Pitts- 
burgh, Penn., in 1862, to Miss Louisa Rettman, also a native of Germany. 
Their living children are Jessie, Carrie, Mary, Frank, Lottie, Frederick, Wal- 
ter and one net named. Mr. Stockberger has made great improvements in the 
carriage factory, moving the old building to the rear and erecting a substantial 
two-story structure. The main floor is used as a carriage repository and the 
upper floor as a paint shop and drying room. This addition was completed in 
1880. Mr. Stockberger and family are members of the Lutheran Church. 

JARED STRATTON, farmer, P. O. Atwater, was born in 1841, in Atwater 
Township, this county; son of Jared and Damaris (Perkins) Stratton, natives 
of Connecticut, who settled in Atwater Township in 1821. Of their children, 
three are now living: Almon, born in this township, in 1831, married to 
Rebecca Henline (they have two children: Willie J. and Howard S. ); Jared; 
and Samuel, unmarried. Jared Stratton, Sr., was a carpenter by trade, and 
worked at this dccupation until within a few years previous to his death in 
1883. His widow is now a resident of the old homestead farm. The subject 
of this sketch, in 1871, settled on his present farm, consisting of fifty-six 
acres, which he has greatly improved and cultivated. He was married in 1872, 
to Miss Lydia B. McLeish, who has borne him four children: Fannie, Frank, 
John and Walter. Mr. Stratton is present Clerk of this district, School Direct- 
or and a member of the Board of Education. He was appointed a Deacon in 
the Congregational Church, of which he is a member, in 1883. 



ATWATER TOWNSHIP. 587 

SAMUEL STRATTON, farmer, P. O. Atwater, was born in Atwater 
Township, this county, June 21, 1843; youngest son of Jared Stratton, Sr., 
whose history appears above. Samuel Stratton has always remained on the 
homestead farm, and since his father's death, February 18, 1883, has been the 
support and companion of his respected mother, now in her eightieth year. 
Our subject has added thil'ty-seven and one- quarter acres to the original 
homestead, making a total of seventy- five and one-fourth acres. He is con- 
nected with the Congregational Church. 

WILLIAM THOMPSON, farmer, P. O. Atwater, was born in Deerfield 
Township, this county, in 1822, son of Uriah and Elizabeth (Allen) Thompson, 
natives of New Jersey, and among the pioneers of 1810 to settle in Deerfield 
Township. At that time there were but ten families in the township, the 
country was covered with woods, and wild animals were in abundance. Their 
nearest market was New Lisbon. Uriah Thompson secured eighty acres of 
land which he cleared, but subsequently removed to Atwater Township, where 
he and his wife died at the ages of eighty-four and seventy-nine, respectively. 
Of their six children, three now survive: Uriah, Jr., William and Elizabeth. 
Our subject has occupied his present farm, now comprising 225 acres, since he 
was eighteen years of age. He erected a cheese factory on his place, and has 
won for himself a wide reputation as a successful manufacturer of this com- 
modity. He began life empty-handed, clearing his farm of woods and slowly 
improving it until he has now one of the best in the county, Mr. Thompson 
was married in 1855, to Miss Emily Fowler, of Pennsylvania. Of the chil- 
dren born to this union five are living: Louie, Owen P., Lillie, Leona and 
Wendell. 

SAMUEL TOWNSEND. ticket and station agent, Atwater, was born in 
Mahoning County, Ohio, in 1836; son of Jonathan and Ann Townsend, of 
English and French descent, I'espectively. They came from Bucks County, 
Penn., and settled in Mahoning County, Ohio, in 1833, where they both died. 
Our subject was married in 1865 to Miss Lois Roller, of his native county. 
He was brought up on a farm and followed various occupations until his 
removal to Atwater in 1870. He was subsequently employed as assistant sta- 
tion agent until the resignation of H. Hillyer, in January, 1884, when he 
succeeded him, and has proved himself to be an efficient officer. He is well 
known and highly respected. 

SILAS P. WALLER, farmer, P. O. Atwater, was born November 6, 1841, 
on the Waller estate, this township, in the old log-cabin which his father first 
occupied in 1837, since when two generations have been born within its hon- 
ored walls. His father, David G. Waller, was born in Palmyra Township, 
this county, August 12, 1812, and was married to Catherine Webber, born in 
Pennsylvania, October 17, 1804, daughter of Peter Webber, who was born 
September 4, 1779, in Berkshire County, Penn., a son of Christian Webber, a 
native of Germany who fled from that country when eighteen years of age to 
avoid being pressed into the army. To this union were born the following 
children, viz.: Hiram, Silas P. (our subject), and David Webber. David G. 
Waller's parents, Silas, Sr., and Betsey (Knappen) Waller, were natives of 
Connecticut and parents of thirteen children, only two of whom now survive: 
David G., and Mason, a native of Palmyra Township, where he still resides. 
Silas Waller, Sr., was a son of Joseph (who died in Connecticut) and Sarah 
Waller, who accompanied her three sons, Silas, David and Asel, with their 
families, who settled in Palmyra in 1805; she died February 21, 1815. Our 
subject was married June 2, 1870, to Miss Angeiine V., daughter of Henry 
and Sophia Dawes, early settlers of Deerfield Township, natives of England 



588 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

and the parents of twelve children. To Mr. and Mrs. Waller have been born 
six children, four now living: Mary Sophia, Fannie Betsey, Cora Elizabeth 
and George Edmund. Our subject enlisted in 1861 in the three months' call, 
but did not go out. He re-enlisted for three years in Company G, Seventh 
Ohio Volunteer Infantry, was wounded in the battle of Cedar Mountain, 
Va., August 9, 1862, and was honorably discharged on account of same, March 
16, 1863. After being dischai'ged from the army he attended school at the 
Poland Seminary, Mahoning Co., Ohio, for one year, and during the winter of 
1864-65 he attended the Iron City Commercial College, from which he grad- 
uated in the spring of 1865. In October, 1865, he removed to Lawrence 
County, Mo., and was engaged in teaching school for live years, during which 
time he assisted in organizing a teachers' institute, and establishing a teachers' 
library of over 350 volumes; was one of the prime movers in establishing a 
normal school at Marionville (the building costing $12,000). He was a mem- 
ber of its first Board of Directors, and Secretary of the Board of Directors 
for three years, and also one of the Building Committee. In the spring of 
1870 he returned to the old homestead on a visit, during which he mar- 
ried Angeline Victoria Dawes, and in September returned with his bride to 
Missouri. During the winter he taught school. In the spring of 1871 he 
engaged in farming, in which he continued for five years, and during that time 
he held the ofiices of Township Clerk, Township Treasurer and Collector of 
Taxes; he was First Lieutenant of Company I, Missouri State Militia. During 
the fall of 1873 they lost their little boy, Edmund Guy, and in the spring of 
1874 they buried their little boy, Henry Lester, over which his wife became 
very despondent. Her health remaining very poor all summer, she returned 
to Ohio on a visit the first of October, staying all the winter of 1874-75. 
During that time he was engaged in teaching school. In the spring of 1875 
he returned to Ohio, and stayed all summer, during which time his wife's 
health greatly improved. In the fall of 1875 he proposed to his wife that 
they return to Missouri again, to which she objected, saying that she would 
rather live in Ohio in a log-cabin than in Missouri in a mansion. He then, 
decided to return to Missouri, dispose of his property and come back and set- 
tle on the old homestead, and is now living in the old log-cabin which has 
been standing some sixty- five years, and in which the third generation is now 
living. He has been a member of the Township Board of Education for seven 
years, and has always taken an active part in public and private enterprises. 

E. WARRINGTON, M. D., Atwater, was born in Butler Township, Colum- 
biana Co., Ohio, in April, 1821, son of Abraham and Keziah (Woolman) W^ar- 
rington, who were the first couple married in Springfield Settlement, Colum- 
biana Co., Ohio, where they raised their family of ten children and resided 
the balance of their lives. Our subject was raised on a farm, receiving a 
primary education in Friends' select schools and at Mt. Pleasant Academy. 
After teaching twelve years and practicing surveying he began the study of 
medicine, and graduated at Cleveland in the Medical Department of the West- 
ern Reserve College in 1852. For five years he practiced his profession at 
North Benton, Mahoning Co., Ohio. In 1857 he settled in Atwater Center, 
where he has since been in constant and successful practice, and with two 
exceptions is the oldest living physician in the county. He has been a mem- 
ber of the Portage County Medical Society for sixteen years, ever since it was 
started; is also a member of the Northeastern Ohio Medical Association. 
During his twenty-eight years' residence in Atwater seven doctors at different 
times have tried to get a foothold there, but would remain only a short time. 
Dr. W^arrington for many years back has used antiseptic method in the treat- 




C'^uy- cc^ ct qJo^ ^atc< 



ATWATER TOWNSHIP. 591 

ment of both wounds and diseases with marked success generally, and in some 
individual cases with marvellous results. In 1853 the Doctor was married to 
Miss Jane Sproat, who died in 1863, leaving two children — Richard and Jes- 
sie. He was married on second occasion in April, 1865, to Miss Elizabeth 
Ritchie, of Columbiana County, Ohio. Dr. Warrington has served as Town- 
ship Treasurer and on Board of Education. He is connected with the Con- 
gregational Church. 

JAMES WEBBER, Jr., farmer, P. O. Atwater Centre, was born on the 
homestead farm where ho now resides in Atwater Township, this county, April 
8, 1825, the second son of James, Sr., and Phebe (Mix) Webber (whose record 
appears in this book elsewhere). Our subject was married in 1855 to Mar- 
garet, widow of Isaac L. Webber, eldest son of James Webber, Sr. (by whom 
she had three children: James B., Charles E. and Lida L.), and a native of 
Harrison County, Ind. To our subject and wife have been born two sons: 
Robert L. and Howard H. Residing from birth on the old homestead, our 
subject's life has necessarily been uneventful. He has served as Justice of the 
Peace some years and in various other township offices of trust. 

HIRAM B. WEBBER, merchant, P. O. Atwater Centre, was born in 
Atwater Township, this county, July 18, 1828, son of James, Sr., and Phebe 
(Mix) Webber, natives of Wallingford, Conn., whose history appeal's in this 
work. The subject of this sketch left home when seventeen years of age, and 
followed mercantile business at New Albany, Ind., where he was extensively 
engaged for upwards of thirty years. He was united in marriage in Indian- 
apolis, Ind., in 1856, with Miss Fannie E. Smith, of Bloomington, Ind., and 
who died in Atwater, this township, March 6, 1881. By this union there are 
three children, now living: Louis C, Mary J. and John L, Mr. Webber 
moved to St. Louis in 1872, and engaged in the sale of carpets, but in 1875 
returned to his native place, where he erected his present place of business, in 
which he carries a general stock of goods. Mr. Webber was a stock-holder 
and Dii'ector in the Ohio Falls Iron Works at New Albany, Ind., and has been 
otherwise identified with prominent operations here and elsewhere. 

FRIEND WHITTELSEY, farmer, P. O. Atwater, was born April 10, 1830, 
in Atwater Township, this county, son of Randolph and Clarissa (Mansfield) 
Whittelsey, of Wallingford, Conn., who were the parents of five children: 
Patrick, Edgar, Friend, Randall, and Clara, wife of Ambrose Goss. The 
paternal grandfather of our subject, John H. Whittelsey, also a native of Wal- 
lingford, Conn., of Scotch descent, settled in the woods near Atwater about 
1807, on the farm now owned and occupied by John B. Whittelsey, Jr., his 
only living child. Our subject was married in 1856 to Miss Eliza Ballinger, 
of Atwater, who came from Cheltenham, England, with her parents in 1850, 
and who died in November, 1859, leaving one son — Elisha. Mr. Whittelsey 
was married, on second occasion, to Miss Susan B. Smith, of Deerfield, by whom 
he has two childi'en: Susan B. and Edgar; Mr. Whittelsey occupies a part 
of the old homestead, having a farm of 260 acres. He is regarded as one of 
the substantial men of Atwater Township. 

RANDALL WHITTELSEY, farmer, P. O. Atwater, was born on the home- 
stead farm, upon Avhich he now lives, in Atwater Township, this county, 
August 30, 1842, the youngest son of Randolph S. and Clarissa (Mansfield) 
Whittelsey, natives of Wallingford, Conn., where the former was born Sep- 
tember, 1799, and the latter in November, 1800. They reared a family of five 
children, all of whom are now living: Patrick, Edgar, Friend, Randall, and 
Clara, wife of Ambrose Gross. Randolph S. Whittelsey came to this county 
when seven years of age, with his father, John H. , who founded a home on the 

31 



592 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

land in Atwater Township, now occupied by John B. Whittelsey. Our subject 
was married November 16, 1876, to Miss Lucy L. , daughter of Royal Merwin, 
of Palmyra Township, this county, and whose family were pioneers of that 
township. The three children boi'n to this union are all living: Lois, born 
June 11, 1878; Clara Jane, born August 7, 1880, and Koyal, born August 1, 
1882. The Whittelseys are among the most numerous of the pioneers, and 
are highly respected. Under our subject's able administration the homestead 
farm has become one of the finest in Atwater Township. 

A. V. WILLSEY, Postmaster and merchant, Atwater, was born in Scho- 
harie County, N. Y., in 1823, son of Henry T. and Orpha (Snow) Willsey, 
natives of that State. The family located north of Atwater Center in 1840, and 
subsequently moved to Ashtabula County, Ohio, where Mr. Willsey died. His 
widow lived to attain her eighty-fifth year, and died in Atwater Township, this 
county, March 28, 1884. They raised a family of five children, all of whom 
are living, and of these, Moses, who served three years in the Union Army dur- 
ing the late war of the Rebellion, is now a resident of Ashtabula County, 
Ohio. The subject of this sketch learned the carpenter's trade in his native 
place, and followed this occupation in connection with farming until his 
appointment as Postmaster of Atwater by President Grant in 1871, which 
position he has filled continuously since that time. Mr. Willsey was married 
in 1843, to Miss Mary J. Clover, a native of Pennsylvania, by whom he has 
three children: Louisa, wife of Z. Crubaugh; Henry, and Delilah, wife of 
G. Gelbart. Mr. Willsey owns a farm in Atwater Township, this county, 
which he operates in connection with his other business. He has served six 
years as Justice of the Peace, and two terms as Notary. 

HOMER H. WOOLF, hardware merchant, Atwater, was born in Mahoning 
County, Ohio, October 24, 1851, son of George and Eliza A. (Baum) Woolf, 
natives of Columbiana County and Mahoning County, Ohio, respectively, and 
who had a family of six children, of whom five are now living: Preston G., 
Homer H., Maurice O., Clark E. and Wilson W. George W^oolf came to this 
county in 1848, and followed farming until he retired from business. He is now 
a resident of Atwater township. His wife died December 2, 1880. Our sub- 
ject was brought up on a farm, and after attending Mt. Union College three 
years, taught school nine terms and then embarked in business. He was mar- 
ried in Ravenna, June 17, 1875, to Miss Carry V. Crumrine, a native of 
Mahoning County, Ohio, by whom he has three children: Edith A., A. Leslie 
and Elsie L. Mr. Woolf, with his brother Preston, established their present 
business in Atwater in 1874, and in March, 1882, Preston disposed of his 
interest to our subject, who has since carried it on alone and is doing a good 
trade, having a stock of about $3,000. He is now serving his third term as 
Justice of the Peace, and has filled other township ofiices. His father's fam- 
ily are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 



AURORA TOWNSHIP. 593 



AURORA TOAVXSHIP. 

REUBEN N. AVERY, farmer, P. O. Aurora, was born on his present 
farm in Aurora Township, this county, December 10, 1829, son of Reuben and 
Corrinna (Lewis) Avery. Reuben Avery, Sr. , was born at Horseneck, Conn., 
March 7, 1772, and removed to this township in 1816 with his first wife, Rachel 
Baldwin, by whom he had ten children. xlfter her death he was married to 
Mrs. Corrinna (Lewis) Faxon, widow of Isaac D. Faxon, by whom she had four 
children. She was born in Farmington, Hartford Co., Conn., December 23, 
1789, came to Mantua TownshijD, this county, in 1813, and in early life 
taught school. Her union with Mr. Avery resulted in the birth of six children: 
Amelia M., Minerva C, Augustus, Henry, Reuben N. and Betsey E. The 
father died May 22, 1873. Our subject was educated in the common school 
of his native township. He was piarried January 1, 1854, to Frances Hatch, 
born in Aurora Township, this county, December 14, 1835, daughter of Dr. 
John and Harriet (Gordon) Hatch, natives of Otsego County, N. Y., who 
removed to Aurora Township in 1826 and 1829 respectively, and where the 
former died in 1842- His widow is still living. Mr. and Mrs. Avery are the 
parents of six children, four of whom are living: Lawrence G., Willis L., John 
H. and Lillian F. Our subject is a farmer by occupation, and owns eighty 
acres of land. He has filled a number of the township offices. In politics he 
is a Democrat. 

HARVEY BALDWIN, farmer, P. O. Aurora, was born in Geauga County, 
Ohio, April 14, 1823; son of Harvey and Laura (Kent) Baldwin, who were the 
parents of four children: Laura Ann (deceased), Harvey, Philander (deceased) 
and Oscar O. , residing in Minnesota. Harvey Baldwin, Sr., was born in Dan- 
bury, Conn., in 1796, and came to Cleveland, Ohio, with his father and family 
in 1806, and the following year to Aurora Township, this county. At eighteen 
years of age he left his home and embarked upon his career in life, first taking 
a trip South, thence to New York. In 1819 he purchased a quantity of cheese 
and cranberries, which he conveyed overland to the Ohio River, thence by skiff- 
boat to Louisville, where he disposed of them. The following year he shipped 
a cargo to New Orleans, and continued in the cheese business for a period of 
twenty-five years, making frequent trips down the Ohio River, and as often as 
once a year to New Orleans. In 1830 he purchased land in Streetsboro, this 
county, and in connection with farming, engaged extensively in the manu- 
facture and sale of cheese. He died in February, 1882. His wife, the mother 
of the subject of this sketch, was born in Suffield, Conn., March, 1797, came 
to Aurora Township, this county, in 1807, and is now residing with our sub- 
ject. Mr. Baldwin, the subject of this sketch, was reared on the farm, anJ. 
educated in the common schools. Leaving home when eighteen years of age, 
he engaged as farm-hand for Charles Harmon, and in 1847 commenced farm- 
ing for himself in connection with dairying, which he has since continued, 
excepting three years spent in California. In December, 1847, he mar- 
ried Emily Carver, who has borne him the following children: Ella F., wife 
of E. R. Merrill; Alice W., wife of F. A. Gould; Carrie E. deceased; Hattie 
E. ; Anna Laura and Minnie C. 




594 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

GEN. NELSON EGGLESTON, farmer, was born October 3, 1811 , in Aurora 
Township, Portage Co., Ohio ; son of Moses and Sally (Taylor) Eggleston. His 
father was born in Middlefield, Mass., in 1784. He came to this township with 
his brother Joseph in the spring of 1806; after arriving, and looking up the 
land for which their father's farm in Massachusetts was exchanged, they com- 
menced clearing away the trees, and making preparations for the arrival of the 
rest of the family the coming year. Among other labors, the ensuing spring, they 
made maple sugar, fashioning the spouts and buckets, for gathering sap, from 
basswood, with only their axes, knives and a sap gouge for tools. During the 
succeeding summer Joseph revisited Massachusetts, and returned with the 
Eggleston, Taylor, and Root families, in all, thirty-two in number. They came 
through Pennsylvania and by way of Pittsburgh. In 1810 Moses had made 
uite an opening on his land and erected a cabin; having provided it according 
to the fashion of those times, he proposed to Miss Sally Taylor to come and 
join with him in the labors and struggles of a border life. This place was one 
mile and a quarter northwest of the center of Aurora, on the old Cleveland and 
Newburg road. In the war of 1812 Moses enlisted in the service, and was 
sent to Huron with his company immediately after the surrender of Hull. His 
wife stayed at the cabin, not knowing what hour the British and Indians might 
defeat her defenders, and repeat again the scenes of the River Raisin. In 
1824 he moved to the Center, where he remained until his death, August 6, 
1866. He was formerly of the Federal, then of the Whig and Republican 
party, by which he was honored with repeated elections to the offices of Justice 
of the Peace and County Commissioner. He was an influential member of 
the Presbyterian Church, and his career that of a man of industry, economy and 
integrity. The mother of our subject was born in Massachusetts, in 1792, and 
died in April, 1838. She had three children, two of whom survive her — Nelson 
and Wealtha. The latter is now living in Tuscola, 111., the widow of Simeon D. 
Kelley, by whom she had seven children, three boys and four girls; the sons, 
Moses, Hiram, and Randolph, served through the late war of the Rebellion. 
Moses, settled at El Presidio, Texas, where he in a short time accumulated a 
handsome property, and became a prominent citizen, but was murdered about 
1880. His two brothers still reside there. Oar subject passed his early life 
on his father's farm, received a common school education, and spent some time 
at Hudson College, whence he graduated in 1831. He taught school in Cal- 
loway (bounty, Ky., nearly a year, returned, and commenced to read law with 
Mathews & Hitchcock, of Painsville, Ohio; subsequently he studied with Humph- 
rey & Hale, of Hudson, and September 9, 1834, was admitted to the bar upon 
motion before the Supreme Court sitting at Ravenna. He was mari'ied, January 
29, 1835, to Miss Caroline Lacy, daughter of Isaac J. Lacy. By this union 
there are two children, Emmett and Addis. Mr. Eggleston engaged earnestly 
in the practice of his profession for a time, but submitting to the demands made 
upon him by his father for help in the working of land, and receiving no 
pecuniary aid from him in the purchase of books, or in the erection of an 
office, for which things he was unwilling to run in debt, he flung up the law, 
and has devoted himself since to farming. In 1834-35 he was Adjutant of the 
cavalry regiment in the Twentieth Brigade, Ohio Militia, under Col. O. L. Drake, 
of Freedom; afterward was promoted to the Colonelcy, which office he held 
two or three years until his resignation. Still later he was elected to the com- 
mand of the brigade with the rank of General. Mr. Eggleston has a wide 
acquaintance with the early settlers of noi'theastern Ohio, and has been con- 
nected In various ways with its progress. He called the first meeting at his 
own house that was ever held to consider the subject of a railroad from 



AURORA TOWNSHIP. 595 

Pittsburgh to Cleveland. The report of this meeting raade by him and pub- 
lished, resulted immediately in a large convention at the center of Aurora, from 
all the towns on the route. He has earned a handsome competence, owning 500 
acres of improved land in Ohio, and 1,200 in Missouri. He takes a lively interest 
in literature and polititcs, but does not permit them to interfere with his daily 
labor and the management of his farms. He is a disciple of Thomas Jeffer- 
son, and acknowledges no other master. 

JOHN GOULD, of Aurora Township, Portage County the gentleman here in- 
troduced, a well known citizen of Aurora, is now in his forty-second year, having 
been born in Twinsburg, Ohio, in 1844, of New England parentage. His 
father, John W. Goald, came from Vermont to Ohio in 1837, and his mother, 
whose maiden name was Eliza Post, from Saybrook, Conn., removed to 
Ohio with her parents in 1821. Mr. Gould and Miss Post were married in 
1839, which relation was broken in 1882, when the beloved mother died, leav- 
ing besides her husband, three children: John, Aaron, and Ettie. In 1848 the 
family removed to Aurora, where they resided an unbroken family until 1879. 
John, the subject of this sketch, led much the life of any farmer's son, going to 
township schools, and for several winters was under the tutorship of the Rev. 
Joseph S. Graves; being of a very studious turn of mind, he added to his limited 
school advantages a general fund of information gleaned from an extended 
reading of books, magazines and the best papers. In 1870 Mr. Gould became 
locally connected with the Cleveland Herald, and in 1878 was advanced to 
the position of traveling agent of the paper. The year following he became 
a staif correspondent, and in that capacity made extended tours, his travels in 
one year alone taking him into nearly a score of States. When the temperance 
movement known as the " Woman's Crusade" began, Mr. Gould was delegated 
by his paper to report it, and for over three months this was his exclusive duty, 
his observations taking him to nearly every corner of the State. In 1879 Mr. 
Gould was married to Miss Helen Ferris, only daughter of Dr. Osman Ferris, 
of Mantua, Ohio. Giving up journalism, they located at Auroia Station, 
Ohio, and farming became his occupation, but in 1880, upon the reorganization 
of the editorial staflf of the Herald, he again became connected with the edi- 
torial force of that paper, with special assignment to its agricultural depart- 
ment, though his pen furnished manji columns to other departments, and many 
long journeys were taken as a "special correspondent." The same year, by 
urgent solicitation, Mr. Gould also became dairy editor of the Ohio Farmer, 
and for years his writings for that journal over the pseudonym of " Sam," have 
been widely read. W^hen Secretary Chamberlain, of Columbus, organized the 
lecture course known as "Farmers' Institutes," Mr. Gould was early assigned 
to a prominent place as a special lecturer upon dairy and kindred subjects, and 
during the winters of 1882-83 and 1884, he has visited nearly every part of the 
State in that capacity. While rarely ever speaking of the extent of his literary 
work, it is known that he is a frequent contributor to the better class of farm 
journals, and his writings are sought for, from East to West, by such papers as 
the New York Tribune, Rural Neiv Yorker, Country Gentleman, Coleman''s 
Rural, Prairie Farmer, etc. With the disappearance of the Herald in 1885, Mr. 
Gould was promptly offered a position upon the editorial staff of the Cleveland 
Plain Dealer. Mr. and Mrs. Gould have always resided at Aurora Station, 
where they assert they shall always continue to reside, and in the future, as in 
the past, welcome their many friends to the hospitalities of their home. 

SAMUEL F. HICKOX, retired farmer, Aurora, was born in Hartford County, 
Conn., September 9, ISIO; son of Josiah and Betsey (Forward) Hickox, who 
were the parents of four children: Josiah V. ; Betsey, wife of Marcus Taylor; Sam- 



596 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

uel F. , and Chauncey, deceased in 1836, Josiah Hickox, a native of Watertown, 
Conn., was born August 22, 1777, a son of Ebenezer Hickox, a soldier in the 
Revolutionary war, who was descended from one of three brothers, natives of 
England, who immigrated to America in the early part of 1700. The father 
of our subject came with his family to Aurora Township, this county, in 1818, 
and here engaged in farming until his death, which occurred August 2, 1840. 
His widow, who survived him until January 15, 1884, was born in Granby, 
Conn., June 18, ]787, daughter of Samuel and Susanna (Holcomb) Forward, 
also natives of Granby, Conn., who came to Aurora Township, this county, in 
1803, and here died, the father in 1821, and the mother in 1830. Samuel F. 
Hickox was I'eared on a farm, and received a common school education. In 
1840 he was married to Miss Emily Blair, born in Aurora, November 21,1816, 
and died January 26, 1884, leaving four children: Oliver, Walter G. , Henry 
M. B. and Olivia, wife of Albert Sheldon. Mr. Hickox is a Democrat in poli- 
tics; an active member of the order of A. F. & A. M. 

CHESTER R. HOWARD, farmer and mechanic, P. O. Aurora Station, was 
born February 3, 1812, in Hartford, Conn. ; son of Freeman and Eunice A. (Ris- 
ley) Howard, natives of Hartford, Conn. , and a descendant of Thomas and 
Susanna Howard, who emigrated from England to America, and settled in 
Ipswich, Mass. , in the year 1634. Freeman Howard, subject's father, was 
born in 1789; was a carriage-maker by trade, and in 1828 came to Aurora and 
erected and controlled a saw-mill and grist-mill. He died in Chardon, Ohio, 
February 3, 1867. His wife was born June 15, 1788, died June 26, 1866, at 
Chardon, also. They were the parents of the following children: Freeman, Jr., 
Chester Risley, Eliza, Celestia and Julius Field. Our subject remained at 
iiome during his minority, assisting his father in farming and in the saw-mill. 
In 1846 he bought the property his father had first owned in Ohio, and has 
since continued to occupy it. He has been twice married, on first occasion to 
Harriet Benjamin, who died July 10, 1864, leaving the following children: Emer- 
ett, Emerson, Elmira and Eliza. He subsequently, September 7, 1865, married 
Harriet, daughter of Robert and Rhoda (Henry) Root. Mr. Howard has always 
quietly and assiduously devoted himself to his private affairs, except when he 
bas been called by the citizens of his township from time to time to discharge 
the duties of District Assessor, and other local offices. 

ELISHA HURD (deceased) was born March 10, 1822, in Aurora Township, 
Portage Co., Ohio, son of Hopson and Betsey (Lacy) Hard, who had a family 
of seven children: Maria, wife of P. H. Babcock, of Cleveland, Ohio; 
Elisha; Hopson; Eliza, wife of S. C. Greene; Frank; Cornelia, wife of J. 
E. Williams, and a daughter deceased. About 1815 Hopson Hurd, accompa- 
nied by Roman Humphrey, came over the mountains with a stock of goods 
and embarked in business in Aurora. Mr. Humphrey in a short time withdrew 
from the firm, and the business was then carried on for many years by Mr. 
Hurd alone. He accumulated a large fortune and died in Aurora in 1869. 
The subject of this sketch was reared and educated in Aurora Township, and 
here married, October 13, 1852, Louisa Williams, boi-n in Newark Valley, N. 
Y., May 13, 1830, daughter of Stephen Williams, of Tioga County, N. Y. 
Four children were born to this union: Eliza, wife of Frank Aldrich, in Cleve- 
land, Ohio; C. Williams; Fred S. ; and McClellan. also in Cleveland. Mr. 
Hui-d remained at home assisting his father on the farm until he was twenty- 
nine years of age, when he engaged in cattle dealing on his own account, and 
about 1857, in company with his brother Frank, embarked in mei'cantile trade, 
and at the same time attended to his dairy, live stock and farming interests, 
This firm continued until the death of Elisha, when Frank carried on the bus- 



AURORA TOWNSHIP. 597 

inesB until 1879, and then sold out to Fred and William S. , sons of Elisha 
Hurd. Mr. Hurd was a Republican in politics. By industry, tact and perse- 
verance he accumulated considerable propeiiiy, and owned over 700 acres of 
land at the time of his death, June 17, 1868. 

ZENO KENT, farmer, P. O. Aurora, was born on his present farm in 
Aurora Township, this county, February 20, 1821, son of Zeno and Emily 
(Granger) Kent, natives of Connecticut, who made a permanent settlement in 
Aurora Township, this county, in 1810. They were the parents of eight chil- 
dren, three of whom are now living: Julius, a farmer in Chagrin Falls, Ohio; 
Zeno, and Delight, wife of Mr. Gillman, of Iowa. Mr. Kent died March 27, 
1837, and his widow, February, 1865. Our subject was reared on the farm, 
and received such an education as could be obtained at the schools of Aurora 
and Ravenna in those early days. In 1848 he was married to Miss Almira, 
daughter of Thomas and Rebecca Gould, who were natives of Vermont. Mrs. 
Kent died November 27, 1867, leaving six children: Helen H. ; Leroy Zeno; 
Charles E. ; Emily D., wife of Arthur Stanton; Dora and Nora. Keno Kent 
is one of the oldest living residents and natives of this township. He has 
followed the occupation of a farmer during his life, and is now owner of 340 
acres of good land, besides having given each of his sons a farm to start them 
in life. 

SOLOMON LITTLE, farmer, P. 0. Aurora, was born on the farm where 
he now resides in Aurora Township, Portage Co., Ohio, December 27, 1825, 
son of Warren and Susanna (Spencer) Little. Warren Little was born April 

16, 1780, in Middlefield, Mass. He was thrice married, on the second occasion 
to the mother of our subject, also a native of Middlefield, where she was born 
September 12, 1781, and who bore him seven children, three of whom are now 
living: Harmony, wife of Seth Sawyer; Nancy, widow of Oliver Smith, and 
Solomon. Our subject's father and mother both died in Aurora Township, 
this county, the former November 8, 1868, the latter July 30, 1838. Our sub- 
ject was reared on the farm upon which he now resides, and in 1864 he mar- 
ried Myra Ward, born at Middlefield, Mass., January 13, 1840, daughter of 
John and Phoebe (Church) Ward, also natives and residents of Middlefield, 
Mass. To this union have been born three children, two of whom are now 
living: Elma and Harry. Mr. Little, who is a farmer by occupation, owns one 
of the best farms in the township, comprising 330 acres of tine land. He and 
his wife are members of the Congregational Church. 

HERBERT T. SHELDON, Sheriff and farmer, P.O. Aurora, was born April 

17, 1842, in Aurora Township, Portage Co., Ohio; son of Ebenezer and Sarah K. 
(Sizer) Sheldon, who were the parents of six children: Horace S. ; Herbert T. ; 
Arthur E. ; Sarah A. (Mrs. C. W. Hammond), in Hubbard, Ohio; Ruby E. 
(Mrs. Seymour Higley), in Windham, Ohio; Charles S., in Yellow Springs, 
Greene County, Ohio. The father of our subject was a native of Aurora 
Township, this county, born April 30, 1811, and was reared, educated and 
married here; he engaged in farming and merchandising, was a Republican in 
politics, Clerk of the township for a number of years; he died February 7,1876. 
His widow, who was born in Massachusetts, March 13, 1818, came to Mantua 
with her parents in 1831, and died in Aurora in August, 1881. Our subject 
passed his early life at home, and was educated in the common schools of the 
township. When twenty years of age he engaged in farming for a year on 
hi sown account; February 20, 1862, he was married to EllaG., daughter of Ros- 
well and Dorothy L. (Ellsworth) Bissell, who has borne him two children: 
Maud, wife of William^Reed, of Bainbridge, and Claude E. In 3853 Mr. 
Sheldon entered the store of G. L. Hoor & Co., remaining with them four 



598 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

years, after which he canvassed for the sale of fruit trees in West Virginia. 
In 1868 he piirchased a farm one mile east of Aurora Center, where he 
remained nine years, but in the spring of 1877 removed to a farm of C. R. 
Harmon's and engaged in farming. He is a Republican in politics, has sei'ved 
as Trustee of the township several times, and for years has been , Township 
Clerk. In August, 1884, he was nominated Sheriff by his party, and in Octo- 
ber; 1884, was elected Sheriff, and took his seat, January 5, 1885. 

OLIVER SPENCER, retired farmer, P. O. Aurora, was born in Middle- 
field, Mass., August 25, 1801; son of Samuel W. and Lucy (Fisk) Spencer, who 
settled in Aurora Township, this county, in 1812, but after living here one 
year went back to Massachusetts. After the death of his wife, Samuel W. 
Spencer returned to Aurora Township, where he remained the balance of his 
life. He was the father of twelve children, four of whom are now living: 
Oliver, Selden, Thompson and Nelson. The paternal grandfather of our sub- 
ject, John Spencer, of Middlefield, Mass., settled here in 1812, and lived with 
his son Brainerd until his death. In 1829 Oliver Spencer settled in Aurora 
Township on the farm where he now resides, all of which he cleared and 
improved. He has been twice married, first, in 1823, to Sally Little; on the 
second occasion, September 3, 1829, he was united in marriage with Anna, 
daughter of Sylvanus Eldridge, of Aurora Township, this county. They have 
had three children: Melinda (deceased), Matilda (Mrs. O. J. Payne) and Rus- 
sell. Mr. and Mrs. Spencer are members of the Congregational Church, with 
which he has been connected for upward of forty years, and for thirty -five 
years has been a Deacon in same. 

WORTHY TAYLOR, retired farmer, Aurora, was born in Hampshire 
County, Mass., January 10, 1797; son of Samuel and Sarah (Jaggers) Taylor. 
The father of our subject was a native of Springfield, Mass., a soldier in the 
Revolutionary war, and came to Aurora Township, this county, with his family, 
in 1807, and died in 1813. His mother was a native of Hebron, Mass., and died 
in 1853, leaving eleven children, of whom are now living. Worthy, Col. Royl and 
Marcus. The subject of this sketch received a common school education in 
Aurora Township, this county, and upon attaining his majority engaged in 
farming, which occupation he has since cotltinued. On February 17, 1817, he 
was married to Miss Harriet Kent. In i8'72 Mr. Taylor removed to Aurora 
Center, where he is now residing. He is a member of the Disciples Church; 
has served the people of his township as Justice of the Peace for twenty- 
seven years. In politics he is a Republican. 

MARCUS TAYLOR, farmer, P. O. Aurora, was born in Middlefield, Mass., 
September 22, 1805; son of Samuel and Sarah (Jaggers) Taylor (see biography 
of Worthy Taylor). In 1807 he accompanied his parents to Aurora Town- 
ship, this county, locating on the farm which he now occupies, and which has 
since been in the name of the Taylor family. In 1828 he purchased the home- 
stead of his elder brother, Samuel, who had become its owner after the death 
of their father. Our subject was married, September 22, 1833, to Betsey M. , 
daughter of Josiah and Betsey (Forward) Hickox (see biography of Samuel F. 
Hickox), by whom he has had two children: Sally M. (deceased) and Chauncy 
M., who married Emma Stanton, of Streetsboro. and resides on the home 
farm, having three children. Mr. Taylor is one of the oldest settlers and cit- 
izens of Aurora Towhship, and has served in several positions of trust. 





» f 



UCiyr^ru^ Jj ^2^Ciyl^iUi:^n^_ 



BRIMFIELD TOWNSHIP. 601 



BKIMFIELD TOWNSHIP. 

EDWIN BARBER, retired farmer, P. O. Brimfield, was born in Litchfield, 
Conn., June 28, lv97; son of Joseph and Abigail (Coe) Barber. On May 8, 
1819, he arrived in Brimfield Township, this county, but in January, 1820, 
revisited Connecticut, returning to Brimtield Township in 1822, and settling 
on the farm where he now resides and which he cleared and improved. He 
was married, August 5, 1823, to Elvira, daughter of Nathan and Sarah Bene- 
dict, of Coi'nwall, Conn., by whom he had three children: Frederick (deceased), 
Ozias, and Elvira (deceased). Ozias is a resident of Akron, Ohio, and married 
to Harriet Campbell, of Tallmadge. Mr. Barber is one of the few pioneers 
now left in Brimfield Township. After a wedded life of nearly sixty-one 
years, he lost his wife, who died, May 9, 1884, in her eighty-second year. Mr, 
Barber has been a member of the Baptist Church over fifty years. He has 
been Justice of the Peace of Brimfield Township one term. In politics he is 
a Republican. 

ELI E. BENEDICT, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Litchfield, Conn., 
March 8, 1828, son of Eli and Marcella (Stoddard) Benedict. His maternal grand- 
father, Levi Stoddard, was an early settler of Perry, Lake County, and in 1830 
removed to Brimfield Township, this county. The parents of our subject set- 
tled in what is now Northampton, Summit Co. , Ohio, in 1830, whex-e his father 
cleared and improved a farm on which he lived until his death in 1876; he died 
at the age of seventy -seven. His widow then removed to Brimfield Township, this 
county, and resided with the subject of this sketch until her death, March 8, 
1884; she died at the age of eighty-five. They had a family of fourteen chil- 
dren, ten of whom grew to manhood and womanhood: Levi (deceased), Matilda 
(Mrs. George Allen), Melissa (Mrs. A. Cummings), William, Eli E., Henry, 
Edwin, Lewis (deceased), Martha (deceased), and Charlotte. Our subject lived in 
Northampton until 1842, since when he has been a resident of Brimfield Town- 
ship, this county, living on the old homestead of his grandfather, Levi Stod- 
dard. He was married in 1851 to Harriet, daughter of Horace and Harriet 
Barton, of Shalersville, by whom he has four children: Julia (Mrs. A. Wilder), 
Charles, Albert and Lucy. Mr. Benedict is one of the representative farmers 
of this county. In politics a Democrat. 

JOHN BOOSINGER, farmer, P. O. Brimfield, was born in Brimfield 
Township, this county. May 8, 1818, son of John and Barbara (Williard) 
Boosinger, who settled here in 1816. Mr. Boosinger was raised on his father's 
farm, one mile west of Brimfield Center, where he resided until he was twenty- 
three years of age. He has been twice married, first, November 4, 1845, to 
Caroline, daughter of Conrad and Mary C. (Kline) Neflf, by whom he had two 
<;hildren: Vernon L., born July 16, 1847, and Lucy C, born March 5, 1853, 
married to George H. Meachem July 31, 1879. Mrs. Caroline Boosinger died 
April 10, 1853, aged twenty-nine years, and August 1, 1853, Mr. Boosinger 
was married to Juliett Neff, sister of his deceased wife, who has borne him 
three children: Edward C, born April 7, 1854, married Miss Mary E. Spencer 
December 24, 1884; Omer C, born January 5, 1858, married Emma J. 
Brown March 9, 1882, and Zaidee B., born January 29, 1863, married WillM. 
Moulton November 21, 1882. Mr. Boosinger is a Democrat in politics; has 



602 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

held several offices in the township. He and his wife have been members of 
the Universalist Church for about twenty years. Mr. Boosinger still resides 
on the farm which he cleared and improved when lirst married. 

GEORGE W. BOOSINGER, farmer, P. O. Brimfield, was born in Roots- 
town, this county, September 16, 1827, son of John and Barbara (Williard) 
Boosinger, who settled in Brimfield Township, this county, in 1816, the first 
family who settled here. The paternal grandfather of our subject was Conrad 
Boosinger, a native of Germany, who settled in Ravenna Township in 1800 
and who in 1809 removed to Tallmadge, Summit Co., Ohio, where he resided 
until his death. John Boosinger, the father of ovir subject, was born in eastern 
Virginia March 17, 1785. In December, 1813, he married Barbara Williard, 
a daughter of Philip AYilliard, an early settler of Rootstown, and reared a 
family of eightchildren (see sketch of Philip Boosinger in Franklin Township). 
Mrs. Boosinger died March 28, 1867, at the age of seventy-seven years, and Mr. 
Boosinger died March 16, 1875, in his ninetieth year. Our subject was reared 
in Brimfield Township, this county, where he received a common school educa- 
tion. When twenty-two years of age he worked his father's farm, continuing 
with him until his death. He was married December 25, 1851, to Amanda 
M., daughter of Moses and Elizabeth Burdge,of Brimfield Township. By this 
union there were nine childi-en: Elsie M. (Mrs. Joseph Meloy), Charles N. 
(deceased), Banks W., Charlie Q. , Hoyt F., Frank L., Ida M., Henry S. and 
Hattie L. Mr. Boosinger came on the farm where he now resides in 1875, 
though he had owned it several years previous to that time. Both he and his 
wife are members of the First Universalist Church of Brimfield. He has held 
various offices in the township; in politics he is a Democrat. 

THE BOSZOR FAMILY were among the early settlers of Portage County, 

and were of German origin Boszor came from his native country to 

America about 1772, and settled at Baltimore, Md., where he married Barbara 
Stoyer. He died at Baltimore in 1798, and the widow subsequently came to 
this county and died in Brimfield Township. Their sou, Henry Boszor, settled 
at Ravenna in 1804; he was a shoe-maker by trade, but after coming to this 
county his principal occupation was farming. He at once bought fifty acres 
of land a short distance east of Ravenna, and in 1805 was married to Polly 
Boosinger, a daughter of Conrad Boosinger, a pioneer of this county. The 
following year he sold this farm and bought a farm by the Stark County line, 
but a year or so afterward he sold out and bought a place in the northeast part 
of Springfield Township, this county, where he lived for several years, and in 
1816 bought a farm one mile west of Brimfield Center, and for the remainder 
of his life was a resident of Brimfield Township. The last-mentioned farm 
was afterward known as the " Israel Thorndyke " farm, and a year or so after his 
purchase he traded his place with Mr. Thorndyke for a farm of 100 acres one- 
half mile north of Brimfield Center, which became his homestead up to the 
time of his death. Some five or six years after his last trade he discovered 
that this farm had been heavily mortgaged previous to his purchase of it, 
which involved him in a heavy additional expense, and he was obliged to pay 
for it a second time. This to a man with a young and growing family was 
quite a hardship, but he may be said to have surmounted all obstacles — raised 
a family of nine children, and at his death in 1862 left a comfortable property 
to his widow and children. He was a representative pioneer and a highly 
esteemed and trusted citizen. From the records it would appear that he served 
the township in various local offices, such as Trustee, etc., etc. He was for- 
merly an old-line Whig, but in the later years of his life he adhered to the 
Democratic party. During the war of 1812 he was drafted and hired a sub- 



BRIMFIELD TOWNSHIP. 603 

stitute; only a short time afterward, however, he volunteered, and was on his way 
with others to re-euforce, and was only a short distance from Gen. Hull's army 
at the time of its surrender, but the company of which he was a member escaped. 
He died in August, 1862. His widow, Polly, died February 11, 1874. They 
were both members of the Lutheran Church. They were the parents of the 
following named children: Elizabeth, born in 1805, died in 1881; John, born 
December 28, 1807, died in August, 1884; Jacob, born December 26, 1809; 
Polly, born in 1811, died in 1835; Barbara, born in 1813, died November 20, 
1875; Susan, born in -September, 1815; Henry, born August 1, 1818; David, 
born February 2, 1821, died May 6, 1861; Martin, born June 2, 1824; Simon 
Peter, born in 1830, died in 1831. 

Henry Boszoe, son of Henry and Polly (Boosinger) Boszor, P. O. Kent, 
was born August 1, 1818, one mile west of Brimfield Center. He lived with 
his parents until twenty-six years of age, in the meantime having received a 
fair common school education. November 20, 1844, he was married to Miss 
Sarah Netf. daughter of Conrad and Catharine (Kline) Neff, natives of Penn- 
sylvania, and on April 16 following they commenced housekeeping in a little 
log- house on a farm of ninety- seven acres which they purchased that spring, 
located on Lot 17, Brimtield Township. On this farm they have ever since 
resided. Except the log house mentioned and some twenty-live acres upon 
which the trees had been girdled and the land in part cultivated sufficient to 
raise enough to afford a bare subsistence to the former owners, this farm was 
in a wild state, and as the purchase was made nearly all on credit, the young 
couple not only saw before them the prospect of many yeai'S of patient indus- 
try in order to improve the land and build up a home, but also to create the 
wherewithal to pay for the same; but they set themselves to the task with a 
right good will. The log-house has long since disappeared, and in its place, 
a short distance west of the spot, stands a neat and commodious frame resi- 
dence and out-buildings, surrounded by well-kept fences and attractive 
grounds, while the twenty iive acres of girdled trees and land covered with 
bush and briers have given place to over seventy acres of cultivated and highly 
productive land, and the homestead has grown to 110 acres, while a short dis- 
tance away Mr. Boszor owns another farm of 100 acres, nearly as valuable as 
the homestead, which at a reasonable valuation would be worth ^100 per acre. 
A very attractive feature of Mr. Henry Boszor's home is a green-house, built 
on the east end of his residence, to which Mrs. Boszor devotes much care. A 
curiosity in this climate is a lemon tree that Mrs. Boszor set out thirty years 
ago, which for the past twenty years has borne excellent fruit, much better 
than can ordinarily be bought, as the lemons thoroughly ripen and drop from 
the branch. No two people in the county are held in greater respect for their 
many excellent qualities. They have ever been ready, in a quiet way, to do 
their full part toward promoting all those enterprises which are calculated to 
benefit society. Mr. Boszor has served his township three terms as Trustee, and 
Assessor one term. He was for some time a Director of the bank at Kent, and 
for the past ten years has been a Trustee of Bouthtel College, an institution to 
which he has donated nearly $2,000. Mr. Boszor ascribes his success in life 
to the fact that he made punctuality in all business transactions his motto. 
Mr. and Mrs. Boszor are members of the Universalist Church. Politically he 
is a Democrat. The grandfather of Mrs. Sarah (Neff) Boszor was Conrad 
Neff, a native of Sweden, who came from Pennsylvania to Ohio with his wife 
and seven children in 1805, and settled in Canfield Township, Mahoning Co., 
Ohio, in 1830. He died in Canfield, that county, and his wife followed a few 
years later. They lie buried side by side. Conrad and Mary Catharine Neff 



604 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

had a family of eleven children: Rebecca, born April 15, 1815; Henry and 
John (twins), born November 20, 1816, and died respectively February 15, 
1832, and April 20, 1817; Mary A., born November 21, 1818; Sarah, born 
May 24, 1820; Samuel, born June 25, 1821, and died December 18, 1825; 
Caroline, born December 27, 1823, and died April 11, 1853; La Fayette, born 
in November, 1826, died August 2, 1828; Juliette, born February 3, 1829; 
John, born January 22, 1831, and died February 13, 1885, in Osceola, Iowa; 
and Lucy Ann, born October 20, 1834. The father of this family was reared 
in the Presbyterian faith, though in later years of his life he became more of 
a Universalist in thought. He died December 5, 1866, aged seventy two years, 
ten months and nineteen days; his wife died July 15, 1865, agefl seventy-two 
years, seven months and' five days. She was reared in the Lutheran faith. 
Both are buried in Brimfield. 

HIRAM G. BRIGGS, farmer, P. O. Brimfield, was born in Palmyra Town- 
ship, this county. May 25, 1835, son of Asa and Abigail (Tuttle) Briggs, the 
former of whom was a native of Vermont and an early settler of Ravenna, 
where he cleared a farm, afterward settling in Palmyra, where he also cleared 
and improved a farm, and in 1845 removed to Iowa, where he died the follow- 
ing year at the age of sixty-nine. Asa Briggs was twice married; by his first 
wife, nee Miss Williams, he had four children: Lestina, Sarah, Emily and Ira. 
His second wife was Abigail Tuttle, of Palmyra, by whom he had three chil- 
dren, Hiram G. being the only one now living. Our subject returned to this 
county immediately after his father's death, and served an apprenticeship at 
the shoe-maker's trade, which he followed up to 1859. He was married, March 
4, 1859, to Lucy A., daughter of Conrad and Mary C. (Kline) Neff, of Brim- 
field Township, this county, by whom he has three children: Norris, C. Clark, 
and Mary G. Mr. Briggs located his farm in Brimfield Township in 1859, 
where he has since resided. He has held various minor township offices, and 
served as Trustee two terms. He is a F. & A. M. In politics a Democrat. 

REUBEN BROBST, wool buyer, Brimfield, was born in Lehigh County, 
Penn., January 22, 1824, son of Daniel and Mary (Brobst) Brobst. His pater- 
nal grandfather was Michael Brobst, of Lehigh County, and a farmer by occu- 
pation, and his maternal grandfather was John Brobst, of same county, a 
prominent farmer and merchant. Our subject was reared in Lehigh County 
until sixteen years of age. He then went to Washington, Penn., where he 
served an apprenticeship of five years at the tinner's trade. In 1847 he set- 
tled in Brimfield, this county, and worked at his trade in connection with put- 
ting up eaves troughs, for fifteen years. He then embarked in his present bus- 
iness, in which he has since been profitably engaged. Mr. Brobst was married, 
in 1848, to Orra, daughter of Nathaniel Packard, an early settler of Brimfield 
Township, and by this union there are four children: Electa, wife of Henry 
Ewell; Orpha, wife of Peter Snyder; Alice and Edward D. Mr. Brobst is a 
F. & A. M. In politics a prominent Democrat. 

JACOB BROWN, retired farmer, Brimfield, was born in Marlboro, 
Stark Co., Ohio, March 28, 1818, and is a son of John and Catherine (Niswan- 
ger) Brown, who settled in Stark County when it was a wilderness, and cleared 
and improved the farm on which they lived and died. Our subject was reared 
on his father's farm and received a limited education. He was married in 
1841, to Lavinia, daughter of John and Sarah Baumbarger, of Stark County, 
by whom he had six children, three now living: Frank, a physician in 
Petoskey, Mich.; Amanda, wife of Jacob Kline, in Franklin Township, and 
Emma J., wife of Homer Boosinger, in Brimfield. Mr. Brown settled in 
Rootstown in 1842, where he cleared and improved a farm of 225 acres, on 



BRIMFIELD TOWNSHIP. 605 

which he resided up to 1881, when he removed to Brimfield Center, and here 
he has erected an elegant residence. He is independent in politics; a worthy 
citizen. 

SAMUEL BUELL, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Berks County, Penn., 
June 11, 1809; son of Samuel and Barbara (Godfrey) Buell, who settled in 
Columbiana County, Ohio, in 1826, and lived and died there. They had eleven 
children, of whom but two are now living — Elijah and Samuel. Our subject 
was married, November l-l, 1833, to Catherine, daughter of George and Cath- 
erine (Ecker) Freebye, of Coventry, Ohio, and the issue of this union has 
been six children: Henry A., killed in the late war of the Rebellion; Maria 
(deceased); Geoi-ge; Annetta (Mrs. Eli Leonard); Marvin (deceased); and Sam- 
uel, Jr. The latter settled in the southeastern part of Brimtield Township, 
this county, in 1834, where he cleared and improved a farm. In 1838 he 
removed to Shalersville, whei'e he lived until 1847, and then returned and 
located on the farm where he now resides. Mr. Buell and his wife are members 
of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Kent. In politics he is a Republican. 

JOSEPH L. CARRIER, farmer and Justice of the Peace, P. O. Brimfield, 
was born on the farm where he now resides, November 24, 1839; son of Lucius 
and Orilla (Emerson) Carrier. His paternal grandfather was Elisha Carrier, 
a native of Connecticut, who settled in Brimfield Township, this county, in 
1835, on the farm now owned by our subject, a part of which he cleared and 
improved. He lost his mind in the latter part of his life, and died in August, 
1845, at the age of seventy-seven years. The maternal grandfather of our sub- 
ject was Joseph Emerson, a native of Vermont, and a soldier of the Revo- 
lution. Lucius Carrier died in 1842, at the age of twenty-two and his widow 
in 1862, at the age of fifty-two. Our subject, who is their only child, was 
married, June 13, 1861, to Mary M., daughter of Benjamin O. and Catherine 
(Caris) Edson, of Rootstown, this county, by which union there are five chil- 
dren: Arthur W., Elmer E., Joseph M., Frederick L. and Ethel I. Mr. Car- 
rier has given his children the best educational advantages. His three eldest 
sons are now teachers, Arthur W. being Principal of the select school in Brim- 
field and considered one of the best educators in the county. Mr. Carrier has 
held the office of Town Clerk and other minor offices, and is now serving his 
sixth consecutive term as Justice of the Peace. He is a prominent member of 
the Masonic fraternity; in polities he is a Democrat. 

JACOB CARSON, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Dauphin County, 
Penn., November 26, 1817; son of John and Catherine (Vance) Carson, who 
settled in what is now Berlin, Mahoning Co., Ohio, in 1831, where they cleared 
and improved a farm. They were owners of several other large farms in that 
county, where they lived and died. The father of our subject, who served in 
the war of 1812, was of Scotch descent, a son of George Carson and a cousin 
of the celebrated scout, Kit Carson. Our subject went to Mahoning County 
when fourteen years of age, and when twenty-five years old moved to the farm 
in Berlin on which his father had first settled, where he remained for seven 
years. In 1849 he settled in Deerfield Township and improved the farm there 
on which he resided for sixteen years. In 1865 he removed to Brimfield Town- 
ship, to the farm he now owns and where he has since resided. He was mar- 
ried, November 27, 1843, to Elizabeth, daughter of Jonathan and Ellen Kin- 
sey, of Columbiana County, Ohio, by whom he had eight children: Annetta, 
wife of Samuel Risk; Mary, wife of Frederick Edson; Catherine, wife of W. 
D. Roth; Oliver P.; Helen A., wife of Albert Shuman; Cecelia, wife of Marcy 
Russ; Charles; and Josephine, wife of Warren Meloy. Mr. Carson is one of 
the representative farmers of Brimfield Township. He has served the town- 
ship as Trustee two terms. In politics he has always been a Democrat. 



606 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

CONSTANT CHAPMAN (deceased) was born in Westbrook, Conn., Decem- 
ber 27, 1761; a son of Deacon Jedediah Chapman, Jr., and a descendant of 
Robert Chapman (of the seventh generation) who was a son of Robert Chap- 
man, Sr., born in 1616 and who came from Hull, England, to Boston, Mass., 
in 1635, settling in Saybrook, Conn., in November of the same year, and died 
October 10, 1687. Our subject, when sixteen years of age, chose the occupa- 
tion of a sailor, and followed the seas up to the time he settled in Brimfield, 
in 1821, and for many years was a ship Captain; during Ihe war of the Revo- 
lution and while in the marine service, he was taken prisoner by the French 
Government and his ship and cargo confiscated. He Avas taken to the Island 
of Guadaloupe and kept a prisoner over a year, when he was exchanged. The 
American Government afterward made the French pay for the loss of his ves- 
sel and cargo. He was married, January 27, 1785, to Jemima, daughter of 
Silas Kelsey, of Killingworth, Conn., by whom he had nine children: Lydia 
K. (deceased); Thurot F. (deceased); John K. (deceased); Anna F. (deceased); 
Chloe P., wife of Henry Smith; Mary C. (deceased); Joseph G. (deceased); 
Jemima T., wife of Gardner Wing, and Henry C. (deceased). Mr. Chapman 
was the first Postmaster of Brimfield, and died here in 1847, aged eighty-six 
years. 

CONSTANT H. CHAPMAN, farmer, P. O. Brimfield, was born February 
24, 1825, in Brimfield Township, this county; son of Joseph G. and Elizabeth 
(Boszor) Chapman, who had a family of five children: Constant H., Mary 
(wife of Stephen Webster), Leory M., Thurot K., Electa E. (wife of George 
W. Bow). Joseph G. Chapman was a native of Connecticut and settled in 
Brimfield Township, this county, in 1820, clearing and improving the farm 
now owned by his daughter, Mrs. Stephen Webster, where he lived and died. 
Our subject's paternal grandfather was Constant Chapman, a native of West- 
brook, Conn., who settled in Brimfield Township, this county, in 1821; his 
maternal grandfather, Henry Boszor, a native of Maryland, settled in Brim- 
field Township in 1816. Our subject has always lived in Brimfield, with the 
exception of two years that he resided in Illinois. He has been twice married. 
By his first wife, Permelia, daughter of Lybia and Julia (Minard) Under- 
wood, of this township, he had one child — Morris S. On June 28, 1863, he 
married his present wife, Elizabeth, daughter of John and Jane (McCloughan) 
Warner, of Suffield, this county, by whom he has two children — Nellie and 
Edd. Mr. Chapman has owned several farms in Brimfield Township, and has 
made many improvements on them. He served the township as Justice of the 
Peace for fifteen years; in politics he is a Democrat. 

MORRIS S. CHAPMAN, farmer, P. O. Brimfield, was born April 14, 1850, 
in Brimfield, this county; son of Constant H. and Permelia (Underwood) 
Chapman. His paternal grandfather, Joseph G. Chapman, settled in Brim- 
field in 1820, and was a son of Constant Chapman, a native of Westbrook, 
Conn., who settled in Brimfield in 1821. His maternal grandfather, Lydia 
Underwood, a son of Alpheus Underwood, settled in Brimfield in 1817. Our 
subject was reared in Brimfield Township and educated in its common and 
select schools, and took a course in the Commercial Department of Mt. Union 
College. He was married October 4, 1871, to Yiola A., daughter of Russell 
R., a native of Providence, R. I., and Mary A. (Wolcott) Ross, of Kent, this 
county, by whom he has two children: J. P. Ionia., born December 1, 1875, and 
Aimee R. , born November 16, 1883. Mr. Chapman has always been engaged 
in farming, and prior to 1875 also taught school seven consecutive winters. 
He is a member of the K. of P.; was elected to the office of Justice of the 
Peace in April, 1883; in politics he is a Democrat. 



BRIMFIELD TOWNSHIP. 607 

JAMES F. DAVIDSON, farmer, P. O. Brimfield, was born in Buffalo Val- 
ley, Union Co., Penn., February 19, 1809; son of William and Mary (Fores- 
ter) Davidson, who settled in Spriugfield, Summit Co., Ohio, in 1816, where 
they remained four years, settling in tlie spring of 1820 in Brimfield Town- 
ship, this county, on Lot 52, now owned by J. W. Sherman, where they built 
a log-house and barn and cleared about thirty acres. They lived there eleven 
years, when they moved to the farm now owned by Joseph Fitch, and there 
lived and died. They had nine children: Jane H., Dorcas F., Betsey C, 
James F., Hetty M., John F., Mary M., William F. and Harriet T., all now 
deceased but James F. Our subject located on the farm where he now resides 
in 1859, and that portion of Lot 58 now included in his farm he cleared and 
improved himself. He is one of the representative farmers and citizens of 
Brimfield Township. In politics he is a Kepublican. 

JOHN EVITTS, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Lancaster County, Penn., 
January 24, 1827; son of Daniel and ,Sarah (Stone) Evitts, who were the par- 
ents of six children: Margaret, wife of Perry Merton; Mary, wife of Samuel 
Cotton (deceased); Magdalena, wife of Martin Brazor (deceased); John, 
Joseph (deceased) and David. Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Evitts located in Spring- 
field Township (now in Summit County), in 1832, clearing and improving a 
farm on which they lived until 1842, when they settled in Brimfield Town- 
ship, this county, on the farm now owned by William Gettes, which they 
cleared and improved, and where they lived and died. Our subject remained 
with his parents until nineteen years of age, and for the succeeding four 
years worked by the month as a farm hand. He was married February 21, 
1850, to Catherine, daughter of Joseph ^Villiard, who settled on the farm now 
occupied by our subject in 1826. To this union were born three children: 
Electa C, wife of Thomas Lighton; Ida C, wife of Frank W. Koon 
(deceased); and Flora A. (deceased). There are three grandchildren: Clyde 
E. Lighton, Evitts G. P. Koon and Frank W. Koon, Jr. Mr. Evitts has 
served his township one term as Trustee. In politics he is a Democrat. 

A^RON FERREY, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Belchertown, Mass., 
July 6, 1808, a son of Aaron and Elizabeth (Gilbert) Ferrey, who settled in 
Franklin Township, this county, in 1831. His father located on the farm now 
owned by Harley Judson, most of which he improved, and here he resided up 
to 1850, when he removed to what is now Kent and there lived until his death. 
Bj his first wife, Elizabeth Gilbert, of Belchertown, Mass., Aaron Ferrey, 
Sr. , had eleven children: Eliza (deceased), Aaron, Moses (deceased), Mary 
(deceased), George (deceased), John (deceased), Ann (wife of George Williams, 
in Wisconsin), William, Charles (in Indiana), Emeline (deceased) and Frank. 
His second wife was Mrs. Mary McPherson, nee Dickinson, by whom he had 
two children; Eliza, wife of Henry Swan, and Byron. Aaron Ferrey. Sr., 
died in 1860, at the age of seventy-eight years. Our subject was reared in 
Amherst, Mass., until ten years of age, when his parents removed to Virginia, 
there they remained five years and then returned to Amherst, and here his father 
engaged in the manufacture of brick, our subject assisting him until twenty- 
one years of age, when he embarked in the same business for himself, which 
he continued for several years in different sections of New England. On May 
9, 1837, he was married to Judith, daughter of George and Judith (Hastings) 
Nutting, of Amherst, Mass., by whom he has had eight children: George W., 
Charles E. (deceased), Mary E. (deceased), Frank H., Julia A., Fred A., Will 
D. and John H. In 1842 Mr. Ferrey came to Portage County and engaged 
in the manufacture of brick in Franklin, furnishing the material for the large 
building now known as Kent Worsted Mills. In 1846 he removed to Franklin 



608 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Mills (now Kent), where he resided for twenty years, doing an extensive busi- 
ness, and in 1866 he located in Brimfield, on the farm where he now resides, 
and in connection with farming, carried on a brick-yard up to 1880, when his 
sons took charge of that department. Mr. and Mrs. Ferrey and daughters are 
members of the Congregational Church. In politics he is a Republican. 

REUBEN HART, farmer, P. O. Brimfield, was born in Goshen, Litchfield 
Co., Conn., May 2, 1803, son of Reuben and Ruth (Ives) Hart and grandson 
of Nathaniel Hart, of Wallingford, Conn., a carpenter and cabinet-maker by 
trade. Our subject was reared on his father's farm in Goshen, Conn., and 
learned the carpenter's trade of his father, which occupation he followed many 
years after he came to Brimfield Township. He settled here in 1826 on the 
farm now occupied by his son Charles, where he resided up to 1864, when he 
purchased the farm adjoining, and here he has lived ever since. Mr. Hart 
was married July 2, 1829, to Nancy A., daughter of Jonathan and Mary 
(Hotchkiss) Law, formerly of Woodbridge, Conn., who settled in Brimfield 
Township, this county, in 1818, and to this union have been born four chil- 
dren, two of whom are now living: Charles and Lois (Mrs. Edwin J. Glass). 
Charles married Eleanor Stillwell, of Brimfield Township, this county, Octo- 
ber 27, 1863, and had four children, three of whom are now living: M. 
Gertrude, Harry S, and Jennie L. Mr. and Mrs. Hart are members of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. He has filled several offices in the gift of his 
township, and served as Justice of the Peace one term. In politics he is a 
Republican. 

HENRY KING, farmer and iron manufacture!', P. O. Kent, was born in 
Franklin Township, this county, in June, 1883, son of Robert and Rhoda 
(Bishop) King, who had a family of three children: Henry, Charles and 
Helen A., wife of Henry Heyd. His paternal grandfather, William King, a 
native of Hampden County, Mass., settled in Ravenna, Portage Co., Ohio, in 
1811. He was the owner of a large tract of land in Charlestown Township, 
which he had purchased of the Western Reserve Land Company, and lived 
there a year or more, disposing of the same in parcels. He returned to 
Ravenna in 1814, and engaged in hotel business up to 1839, and was one of the 
best known landlords in this part of the State at that time. He died in 1843, 
aged about sixty-five years. He had four children: Robert, deceased; John 
B., deceased; Eli P., deceased, and Mary, wife of Dr. A. Woodworth, now of 
St. Louis. Robert, his eldest son, resided in Ravenna nearly all his life. He 
was a prominent farmer and business man, and was at one time engaged in bank- 
ing, dealing also in live stock on an extensive scale. His wife was a daughter 
of Deacon Bishop, of Blandford, Mass. Our subject was reared in Ravenna 
from five years of age, and there received a liberal education for his day, 
being principally educated by Mr. Calhoun, a Yale graduate and relative of 
John C. Calhoun, of South Carolina. In 1850 he was engaged in the Civil 
Engineer Corps of the C. & P. R. R., with whom he remained one year, and 
then was employed in the locomotive works at Cleveland for four years. He 
was married February 11, 1856, to Rebecca, daughter of Thomas and Sarah 
(Antrim) Sharp, of Salem, Ohio. In 1855 Mr. King went to Salem, Ohio, and 
embarked in the foundry and machine business there for fifteen years, and 
during that time, in connection with Pittsburgh parties, was also engaged in 
the manufacture of pig iron in Columbiana County, Ohio, and in Arm- 
strong County, Penn., in which he is still interested. He was a resident of 
Pittsburgh for ten years, and in the fall of 1883 located in Brimfield Town- 
ship, this county, on the farm where he now resides. In politics Mr. King is 
a Republican. 




OWa-i^ o^-^-'v^^ 



BRIMFIELD TOWNSHIP. 611 

ALMON LANPHARE, farmer, P. O. Brimfield, was born September 25, 
1821, in Brimfield Township, this county, son of Abner H. and Sophia (Moul- 
ton) Lanphare, who had eight children: an infant son (deceased), Almon, 
Eunice (deceased), Eliza A., Nathan (deceased), infant twins (deceased) and 
Martha C. Abner H. Lanphare was a native of Woodstock, Vt., came to 
Brimfield Township, this county, in October, 1816, and the following winter 
taught the first public school in Franklin Township, this county. He after- 
ward bought 200 acres of land in Brimfield Township (a part of which is now 
owned and occupied by our subject), clearing and improving a farm on which 
he lived, and died October 4, 1879, in his eighty-fourth year. The maternal 
grandfather of our subject, Jeremiah Moulton, settled in Brimfield Township, 
this county, in 1817. Almon Lanphare was reared in Brimfield Township, 
where he has always resided. He has been twice married, his first wife being 
Caroline, a daughter of Peletiah and Hannah Bard, of Brimfield, and by her 
he had two children: Charles, who served through the late war of the Rebellion 
and died of consumption six months after his discharge, and Henry A., 
deceased. His present wife is Flora A., daughter of Col. Bissell and Arteme- 
sia Austin, of Randolph Township, this county. By this union there are two 
children. Jennie and Stella. Mr. Lanphare and wife are members of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. He has held various offices in the gift of the 
township; in politics he is a Democrat. 

AARON P. MALLORY, farmer and carpenter, P. O. Kent, was born in 
Brimfield Township, this county, March 14, 1821, son of Benjamin and 
Johanna (Harris) Mallory, natives of Litchfield County, Conn., who settled 
here in 1817 on the farm now owned by our subject, and which they cleared and 
improved. They were the parents of four children: Margarett Ann, deceased; 
Aaron P.; Benjamin, deceased, and B. O. Plymton, deceased. Benjamin 
Mallory died October 18, 1859, aged seventy-one years, and his wife October 
18, 1848. Our subject was reared on the old homestead, where he has always 
resided, and was married December 24, 1848, to Fidelia E., daughter of James 
and Betsey (Avery) Blake, formerly of Cornwall, Litchfield Co., Conn., and who 
settled in Brimfield Township, this county, in 1826, locating half a mile east of 
Brimfield Center, where they cleared and improved a farm, on which they resided 
until Mr. Blake's death; he died March 7, 1872, at the age of seventy-three 
years. His widow died in 1881, aged eighty years. They reared a family of 
six children: Orville, a clergyman of the Free- Will Baptist Church, who 
was a Representative in the Ohio Legislature for four years (now deceased), 
Fidelia E, Buel A., Sherman M. (deceased), Judson A. and Charlotte (wife of 
John I. Hastings). Mr. and Mrs. Mallory are the parents of four children: 
Frank N., deceased; Emma J., wife of A. T. Nighman; Nettie, wife of Cyrus 
Osborn, and Benjamin. Our subject has been a member of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church since he was fourteen years of age. In politics he is a 
Republican. 

JAMES MOULTON, farmer, P. O. Brimfield, was born May 30, 1825, in 
Brimfield Township, this county, son of Augustus and Sarah (Osborn) Moulton, 
who were the parents of three children: Louisa A. wife of Silas Shannon (have 
four children living: Maria, Warren, Charlie and Josie, latter wife of Richard 
Bunker), Warren (now deceased) and James. Augustus Moulton settled on a 
quarter section of land (a part of which is now owned by our subject and his 
sister, Mrs. Silas Shannon,) in 1822, where he cleared a farm from what was 
an unbroken wilderness and lived there until his death. He died in 1863, at the 
age of sixty-five years. Our subject's paternal grandfather was Jeremiah 
Moulton, a native of Munson, Mass., who settled in Brimfield in 1817, clearing 

32 



612 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

and improving a farm where he lived the balance of his life. He was a promi- 
nent man in his day, and served the county as Associate Judge for seven years. 
He reared a family of ten children: George (deceased), Augustus (deceased), 
Anson (deceased), William J., Sullivan, Lucy (wife of John Abels), Nancy 
(deceased), Sophia (deceased), Betsey (wife of Chauncey Tupper) and Emily 
(deceased). The maternal grandfather of oxir subject was Peter Osborn, of 
Connecticut, and whose sons, Peter and Joseph, settled in Brimlield in 1821, 
where they lived for many years. James Moulton, the subject of this sketch 
was reared on the home farm where he has always resided, with the exception 
of seven years, during which he lived in Suffield, this county. He married, 
March 11, 1843, Betsey, daughter of Russell and Betsey (Jones) Meacham, of 
Suffield Township, this county, by whom he has had the following children: 
Martha E., wife of John Sylvester; Sarah A., wife of George Maloy (have one 
child — Clarence A.); Minnie A., wife of E. Ladenslayer (have one daughter — 
Nellie); Cora, wife of Calvin Miller (have two children: James I. and Clara 
A.); William M. ; Emma W. ; Bertha A., and Hannah R. (deceased). Mr. 
Moulton has served his township as Justice of the Peace one term. In politics 
he has always been a stanch Democrat. 

JOHN Q. MOULTON, farmer, P. O. Brimfield. was born on the farm 
where he now resides, November 14, 1846; son of Elbridge G. and Almira J. 
(Dunning) Moulton. His paternal grandfather, Harrison Moulton, settled in 
1817 on the farm now owned by our subject, which he cleared and im- 
proved. He had six children: Wyles, William (deceased), Elbridge G. 
(deceased), Susan (deceased), Maria (Mrs. Albert Underwood), Sophia (Mrs. 
Albert Dawley). Elbridge G. had three children — A. Jeannette (Mrs. J. W. 
Sherman), Lucy M. (deceased), and John Q. Our subject has always resided 
on the old homestead. He was married, January 4, 1871, to Eliza A., daugh- 
ter of Elias and Mary A. Heckman, of Brimlield Township, this county, by 
whom he has one child, Nina E. Mr. Moulton is a representative farmer and 
citizen of Brimfield Township. In politics he is a -Republican. 

JOSEPH P. PARKER, butter and cheese manufacturer, Brimfield, was 
born in Windsor, Ashtabula Co., Ohio, June 30, 1818; son of Daniel and 
Sarah (Bartlett) Parker, natives of East Windsor, Conn., who settled in Ash- 
tabula County, in 1813, where Mr. Parker cleared and improved a farm on 
which he resided up to 1832. He afterward lived in different parts of the 
State, and died in Ashtabula County, in 1852, at the age of seventy-eight 
years. Our subject came to Shalersville, this county, in 1837, and here for 
three years worked by the month; the three years following this he rented a 
farm in the same township, and then purchased a small farm in Shalersville 
Township, where he lived until 1849, and then removed to Michigan. In 
1851 he engaged in farming in Streetsboro Township, this county, where he 
remained up to 1876, then located in Brimfield Township, and embarked in 
his present business of manufacturing butter and cheese. He has been twice 
married; on first occasion, September 9, 1842, to Harriet, daughter of Newton 
and Molly (Hotchkiss) Morris, early settlers of Shalersville Township, this 
county. By this union there were two children: Alice, wife of William 
Beasley, and Ellen, wife of Joseph Quinn. On January 1, 1859, Mr. Parker 
married Annis, daughter of James and Lucy (Barber) Rose, of Kent, who bore 
him six children: Frank, Hattie, Addie (deceased), Willie, Lettieand Eleanor 
(deceased). Mr. Parker is a F. & A. M. In politics he is a Democrat. 

EDWARD PARSONS (deceased), who was a pioneer of Brimfield Town- 
ship, this county, was born in Northampton, Mass., March 14, 1797, son of 
Moses and Esther (Kingsley) Parsons, also natives of Massachusetts. The 



BRIMFIELD TOWNSHIP. 613 

Parsons family is a very old one and the name appears often in the early his- 
tory of the old Bay State. They were originally of English extraction. The 
subject of this sketch lived in his native village until a man grown, in the 
meantime learning the ti'ade of his father, that of a carpenter and joiner. At 
this place, when about twenty-nine years of age, he made the acquaintance of 
Miss Clementina Janes, then teaching school at Northampton, a daughter of 
Peleg Cheney and Martha (Coy) Janes, of Brimfield, Hampden Co., Mass., 
where Mr. Janes was a large mill owner. The Janeses were of English 
extraction, and the Coys of Irish origin, though both families for generations 
previous were natives of Massachusetts or Connecticut. This acquaintance 
resulted in the marriage of Mr. Parsons with Miss Janes on January 1, 1828, 
and two years and a half afterward Mr. Parsons with his wife and son 
Edward A., born in Northampton, Hampshire County, Mass., January 25, 1829, 
moved to Ohio, and first settled at Brecksville, Cuyahoga County, for one year; 
thence went to Cleveland, remaining sis months, and finally, in the fall of 
1831, took up their residence in the township of Brimfield, Portage County, 
Here Mr. Parsons worked at his trade at odd intervals, but never to anv extent 
making farming his main occupation, at which he was very successful, for 
although buying only fifty acres at the start, he afterward became the owner 
of 200 or more acres near the village of Brimfield. He was one of the most 
substantial and highly respected citizens of the township. In 1868 he retired 
from active farming, and moved to Kent, where he resided until his death 
April 6, 1874. He was from early manhood a devoted member of the Epis- 
copal Church (as was his wife), himself and a Mr. Cogswell being the founders 
of the first church organization of this denomination in his native village of 
Northampton, Hampshire Co., Mass., where he was Junior Warden. At Kent 
he took the same interest, and was one of the organizers of the Episcopal 
Church in the village, and for the erection of this house of worship he con- 
tributed liberally of his means and served as Church "Warden for many vears. 
In politics he was originally a Whig, and in sentiment a believer in liberty 
and the equal rights of man, and on the formation of the Republican party, 
he always acted and voted with that party. On the breaking out of the war 
of the Rebellion, two of his sons volunteered and served in the Union Army: 
Timothy G., for four years, most of the time in the Quartermaster's Depart- 
ment; and William C, for ten months as an artilleryman. Mr. and Mrs. 
Parsons reared a family of six children: Edward A., born January 25, 1829; 
Timothy G., born September 17, 1832; Harriet J., born June 24, 1835, died 
October 2, 1876; Martha Kingsly, born April 1, 1838; William Cheney, born 
February 19, 1841; Clementina, born September 30, 1843. All the children 
were born in Brimfield, Ohio, except Edward A., who was born at Northampton, 
Mass. Mrs. Parsons is now eighty-two years of age, and is an exceedingly 
amiable and worthy lady, well preserved for her years, I'etaining all her fac- 
ulties. She resides with her daughter, now Mrs. Clementina Barber, wife of 
Charles H. Barber, the present Postmaster of Kent. 

JOSEPH RUSS, farmer, P. O. Brimfield, was born in Brimfield Township, this 
county, February, 5, 1832; son of Beverly Y. and Bertia (Emerson) Russ, natives 
of Vermont. His father came to Ohio in 1829, and purchased a tract of land in 
Brimfield Township, this county, on whichhe settled;in 1831, cleared and improved 
and where he resided until his death. The farm is still the propertv of his 
descendants. He had five children: Joseph, Seraph (deceased). Van (deceased), 
Viola (deceased) and Emma (Mrs. S. Samuel Buell, Jr.). Our subject has been 
a resident of Briu.field Township, this county, most of his life,and has lived on 
his present farm upward of twenty -seven years; he was married February 23, 



614 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

1854, to Mary E., daughter of Gideon and Elizabeth Marlett, of Elkhart, Ind., 
by whom he has had five children: Marcy H., Delos P. (deceased), Marion 
(deceased), Ernest L. . and Herbert L. Mr. Russ has held several township offices 
in Brimtield. In politics he is a Democrat. 

EDWARD A. RUSSELL, farmer, P. O. Brimfield, was born in Perrys- 
burg, Cattaraugus Co., K Y., July 21, 1818; son of Edward and Love (Spen- 
cer) Russell, theformer of whom, a native of Washington County, N. Y., died at 
our subject's residence in December, 1883, aged ninety-two years; the latter, 
a native of Rupert, Bennington Co., Vt., died on the old homestead in Brimfield 
Township, this county, in 1845. The paternal grandfather of our subject was 
Capt. William Russell, a son of Ebenezer Russell, a native of Branford, Conn., 
whose ancestors settled there in 1660. He was the first Treasurer of Wash- 
ington County, N. Y., and held the office for fifty consecutive years. The maternal 
grandfather of our subject was Phineas Spencer, a native of Vermont, and a 
farmer by occupation. The parents of our subject settled in Brimtield Town- 
ship, this county, in 1829, on the farm now owned by William Kruger, which 
they cleared and improved. They had eleven children: Phineas S., Martha L. 
(deceased), Edward A., Mary L. (deceased), William, John (deceased), Frank 
F., Delia M. (deceased), Eliza J. (Mrs. E. Osgood), Nancy S. and an infant 
(deceased). Our subject was married, June 2, 1846, to Ann, daughter of John 
and Julia A. (Harris) Furry, formerly of Dutchess County, N. Y. , who settled in 
Brimfield Township, this county, in 1817, and to this union were born five 
children: Homer B., Albert E., W^arren A., Merritt E. and Myra J. (twins). 
Mrs. Russell died November 24, 1884. Our subject has always resided in 
Brimfield Township, this county, where he followed his trade, that of a wagon- 
maker, for eight years engaged in farming, and has resided on his present 
farm since 1855. He is a Republican in politics, he and his wife are members 
of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

OLIVER SAWYER, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Jaffrey, Cheshire Co., 
N. H., April 21, 1804; son of Uriah and Sally (Spafford) Sawyer, natives of 
Massachusetts, who settled in Brimfield Township, this county, in 1817, locat- 
ing on Lot 20, part of the farm now owned and occupied by our subject, 
where they lived and died. The paternal grandfather of our subject was 
William Sawyer of Berlin, Mass., who had seven children: Amos, Oliver, Asa, 
Uriah, Nabby, Polly and Hannah, all now deceased. He (Grandfather Sawyer) 
and two brothers settled about 1740, on an elevated piece of land in Berlin, 
Mass., which has always gone by the name of "Sawyer's Hill." These three 
brothers lived and died there, and raised large families. Oliver Sawyer visited 
the spot in 1857, and found the local school was attended by about sixty 
scholars, over forty of whom were named Sawyer. Our subject's maternal 
grandfather was Job Spaflford, also of Berlin, Mass. Uriah Sawyer had ten 
children, of whom eight grew to maturity: Oliver, Henry (deceased). Lock- 
hart (deceased), Uriah (deceased), William B. (deceased), Benjamin F. 
(deceased), Sally (Mrs. John Walker) and Hannah. Our subject has always 
lived within half a mile of the old homestead, having when twenty-three years 
of age purchased the farm three- fourths of a mile south of his present residence, 
where he lived for over forty years. He has been twice married, on first occasion 
November 29, 1827, to Sophia, daughter of Asa and Eunice Sawyei", by whom he 
had four children; Luke (deceased), George L. (deceased), George L. (second) 
and Jane A. (deceased). Augiast 16, 1862, he married his second wife, Martha 
L. (Russell) Furry. Mr. Sawyer came back to the old homestead in 1862, where 
he has since resided with his only surviving child, George L., who is married 
to Mary J., daughter of Henry C. Chapman and grand-daughter of Constance 



BRIMFIELD TOWNSHIP. 615 

Chapman, who settled in Brimtield Township, this county, in 1821, and who was 
a soldier of the Revolution. To George L. Sawyer and his wife have been born 
five children: Elam (deceased), Elmer, Sumner, Dora and Sophia. Our subject 
is the oldest living pioneer of the township; in politics he is a Republican. 

HENRY D. SAWYER, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Brimfield Town- 
ship, this county, July 4, 1838, son of Asa and Caroline A. (Lincoln) Sawyer. 
His paternal grandfather, Asa Sawyer, was a native of Massachusetts, who 
settled here in 1818 on the farm now owned and occupied by A. J. Shuman, 
where he resided until his death in 1845. His maternal grandfather was Dr. 
Luke A. Lincoln, the first resident physician of Brimfield Township, this 
county, having settled in 1820. Asa Sawyer, the father of our subject, settled 
on the farm now occupied by his widow, which he cleared and improved and 
on which he lived until his death. He died November 4, 1881, at the age of 
seventy-nine years. Our subject, with his mother, resides on the old home- 
stead, where he was born and reared and has always followed farming as an 
occupation. He served in the late war of the Rebellion, enlisting in August, 
1861, in Company L,, Second Ohio Cavalry, and was honorably discharged in 
1865, having participated in all the engagements in which his regiment took 
part, except the last battle of Richmond. He is a member of the G. A. R. ; in 
politics a Democrat. 

VICTOR P. SAWYER, farmer, P. O. Brimfield, was born in Brimfield 
Township, this county, September 12, 1848, son of Uriah and Caroline (Pike) 
Sawyer. His paternal grandfather was Uriah Sawyer, a native of Massachu- 
setts, who settled in this township in 1817. His maternal grandfather, Jeremy 
Pike, also a native of Massachusetts, settled here in 1820. Uriah, the father 
of our subject, when he started in life for himself, settled on Lot 20, Brimfield 
Township, where he cleared and improved the farm now owned by George 
Tritt, and there resided up to 1860, when he removed to the farm now owned 
by our subject, where he lived until his death. He died November 2, 1881, 
aged seventy-one years. His children were Adelaide R. (deceased), and 
Victor P. Our subject was married September 27, 1870, to Eunice S., daugh- 
ter of William R. and Lucy (Sawyer) Kelso, of Brimfield Township, by whom 
he has two children: Lucy C. and Addie C. Mr. Sawyer is a member of the 
Universalist Church. In politics he is a Democrat. 

JOHN W. SHERMAN, farmer, P. O. Brimfield, was born in Brimfield 
Township, this county, October 29, 1834, son of Capt. Harris and Sallie 
(Morgan) Sherman, who settled here in 1831, locating on Lot 52, which they 
cleared and improved and where they lived and died. His paternal grandfather 
was Thomas Sherman, son of Thomas Sherman, he a son of Dr. John Sherman, 
the latter a son of Rev. James Sherman, descendants of Dr. John Sherman, a 
native of England who settled in Watertown, Mass., in 1634. Our subject 
was married Sei:)tember 7, 1862, to A. Jenette, daughter of Elbridge and 
Almira J. (Dunning) Moulton, and grand-daughter of Harrison Moulton, who 
settled in Brimfield Township, this county, in 1817, and to this union have 
been born two children: Florence A. and Howard C. (deceased). Our subject 
was reared on the homestead which he now owns, and where he remained until 
1881, when he moved to the place he now occupies. He and his wife are 
attendants of the Universalist Church. He is a F. & A. M.; in politics he is 
a Republican. 

ABRAM J. SHUMAN, farmer, P. O Kent, Portage Co., Ohio, was born 
in Clarence, Erie Co., N. Y., December 31, 1814, son of Henry and Hannah 
(Johnson) Shuman, natives of Pennsylvania and New York respectively, who 
settled in Stdwe Township (now in Summit County, Ohio), in 1834, where they 



CIG BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

cleared a farm aud lived until their death. They were the parents of eight 
children: Abram J., Catherine (deceased), Nancy (Mrs. James C. Kelso), Eras- 
tas, William, Mary (deceased), Henry (deceased), and Eiias (deceased). Our 
subject settled in Brimtield Township, this county, in 183G, and was married 
November 29, ]840, to Sarah, daughter of Asa and Eunice (Bruce) Sawyer, 
who settled here in 1818. The issue of this union was ten children: Alvina 
(deceased), Albert, Alvina (Mrs. Peter Carline), Loretta (Mrs. J. Otis Nighman), 
Amelia (Mrs. Frank Maloy), Asa, Mary, Dora (Mrs. Adam Cline), an infant 
daughter (deceased) and Heni'y. Mr. Shuman has lived on the old Sawyer 
homestead since his marriage, and has held several offices in the gift of the 
township. In politics he is a Republican. 

BAKNET STJLWELL, farmer, P. O. Mogadore, Summit County, was born 
in Bergen County, N. J., in 1802, son of Ezekiel and Mary (Earl) Stilwell. 
He was left an orphan in his infancy, and lived with his relatives in New Jer- 
sey until fifteen years of age, when he went to western Pennsylvania and 
worked as a farm hand by the month for two years. He subsequently leased 
farms in that vicinity until 1827, when he came to Brimfield Township, this 
county, and settled on the farm (at that time an unbroken wilderness) where 
he still resides, and all of which he has cleared and improved. He was mar- 
ried, April 25, 1824, to Jane, daughter of David and Jane (Jackson) Hall, of 
Armstrong County, Penn. The issue of this union was ten children: Mary, 
wife of Norris Miller; David; Ezekiel ; Eliza (deceased); Smith (deceased); 
Warren (deceased); Philena, wife of Cornelius Weston; Elenor, wife of Charles 
Hart; Byron and Alice (latter deceased). Mr. Stilwell is a worthy citizen and 
one of the few pioneers still living in Brimfield Township. In politics he is 
a Kepublican. 

LAMBERT TWITCHELL, farmer and clergyman, P. O. Kent, was born 
in Brimfield Township, this county, August 12, 1827, son of Arba and Sally 
(Barber) Tvvitchell, natives of Massachusetts and Litchfield, Conn., respect- 
ively. The paternal grandfather of our subject was Jonas Twitchell, who 
came to Brimfield Township, this county, in 1817; he had but two children — 
John and Arba. Arba Twitchell came here in 1816, and was hired by Henry 
Thorndike to make a clearing on the old Boszor Hill, a half mile north of the 
Center, and to him belongs the honor of having made the first improvement in 
the township. Not long afterward he settled on the farm now owned and 
occupied by our subject, which he cleared and improved and lived on until his 
death. He had one child — Lambert. Our subject has always I'esided on the 
old homestead where he was born and reared. He was educated in the com- 
mon schools, the Kent Academy and Oberlin College, and was married in 
November, 1851, to Julia M., daughter of Sedley and Maria (Barber) Sill, of 
Dansville, N. Y., by whom he had three children: Russell W., Male, and 
Josephine (deceased). Mr. and Mrs. Twitchell are members of the Baptist 
Church, of v?hich he was ordained a minister some twelve years ago. He served 
as pastor of the Kent Baptist Church for six years, and organized the present 
church of that place. Through his labors and exertions the church was built 
and now has a thriving congregation. In politics Mr. Twitchell is a Prohibi- 
tionist. 

ALPHEUS H. UNDERWOOD, farmer, P. O. Brimfield, was born Sep- 
tember 22, 1827, in Brimfield Township, this county, son of Lybia and Julia 
(Minard) Underwood. His paternal grandfather was Alpheus Underwood, a 
native of Munson, Mass., who settled in Brimfield, Portage Co., Ohio, in 1817, 
locating on the farm now known as the Needham Farm, which he cleared and 
improved, and on which he lived and died. His family consisted of seven 



CHARLESTOWN TOWNSHIP. 617 

children: Marcia, Alvira, Pamilla, Lybia, Freeman, Albert and Eiam, all now 
deceased. The maternal grandfather of our subject was Champlin Minard, 
who settled in Atwater Township, this county, in 1817. Lybia Underwood, 
after he became of age, settled on the farm now occupied by his widow, which 
he cleared and improved, and where he resided until his death. He was thrice 
married. By his first wife, Julia Minard, he had eight children: Mary A. 
(deceased), Juliet (deceased), William P., Alpheus H., Pamilla (deceased), 
Elam, Bruce and Walbridge (deceased). His second wife was Mrs. Ruth E. 
Baldwin, nee Minard. By Mai'ia Edson, bis third wife, he had one daughter 
— Pamilla, wife of Charles Maloy. Lybia Underwood, who was a prominent 
citizen of Brimfield, serving as Justice of the Peace for many years, died in 
1877. The subject of this sketch was reared on the old homestead, and, after 
he became of age, he, in company with his brothers, worked his father's farm 
for several years. He was married, May 16, 1854, to Perces C, daughter of 
Rufus and Martha (Caris) Huntley, of Brimfield, by whom he has had two 
children: Harmon E. (deceased) and Vernon E. Mr. Underwood has resided 
on his present farm since 1858. He has filled various offices in the gift of his 
township, and is now serving his third term as Township Trustee. In politics 
he is a Democrat. 



CHARLESTOWN TOWNSHIP. 

LUTHER L. BROWN, son of Benjamin and Mary (Millman) Brown, who 
settled in Nelson in 1806, was born August 7, 1804, and came to Charlestown 
in 1830, settling one-half mile south of the Center on the King farm; 
moved to the Center in 1840. Among the residents here when he came were 
Leverett Norton, H. P. Curtis, John Bill and William Aull. Mr. Brown built 
his house here in 1840. He was married, October 25, 1829, to Minerva E. 
Hall, daughter of Joel and Elizabeth Hall, who settled here in 1815, coming 
from Massachusetts. Mr. Brown was elected first Probate Judge and served two 
terms. Under the old State law he was Associate Judge of the county. Justice 
of the Peace for fourteen years, and filled all the town offices. Of his children, 
Julian married John Holden, February 25, 1855; Sophia M. E. married 
Spencer B. Morris, April 29, 1860, and Arthur L. died in infancy. Judge 
Brown was teacher for some time of the Center School. 

THE COE FAMILY. Capt. David L. Coe came to Charlestown Town- 
ship, and settled one-fourth of a mile north of the Center. His sons were Ran- 
som, Lyman, Adna and Heman. Claudius L. Coe came several years later, 
and Sophia, Sally, Phoebe, daughters of the Captain, also came at that time. 
Mrs. Sarah (Pratt) Coe came from Massachusetts with her husband. Ransom 
Coe was married, October 1, 1825, to Rebecca M. Austin, daughter of Nathan- 
iel Austin, of Litchfield, Conn., who are the oldest settlers now living in the 
town. The family of Coes came with the Hinckley colony, and its members 
were among the very first settlers. Heman and Rev. Lyman died many years 
ago; Adna and Claudius settled just north of the David Coe homestead, and 
their representatives reside here still. The house erected by Capt. Coe is the 
home of his son Ransom. John A. Wadsworth, who died May 1, 1884, son of 
Zenophon Wadsworth, of Windham, was married March 1, 1849, to Miss Char- 
lotte, eldest daughter of Ransom Coe. Mrs. Wadsworth still resides at 
Ravenna. 



618 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

CHARLES CURTIS, Sr., came to Charlestown Township with the Hinck- 
ley colony accompanied by his brothers, Linus and Joel. The children of 
Charles Curtis, Sr., were Chauncey, Charles L., Henry, Lewis, Denis (who died 
about 1813), Polly, Lucretia, Harriet, Maria and Lucy. Polly married Lev- 
erett Norton, still living in Connecticut, where her husband died. Lucretia 
married Horatio Austin, and after his death was married to Mr. Hart. She died 
some years ago. Harriet married Charles Austin; both are dead. Chauncey was 
married to Clarissa Loomis, subsequently to Mrs. Barnes, and lastly to Mrs. 
Soule. Charles L. married Aurelia Loomis, in February, 1825. Charles Curtis 
came in 1811, and died in 1813 from disease caught at Cleveland while serv- 
ing as sutler. The old homestead is opposite the Coe homestead, but occupied 
by the Worden family now, since the death of Chauncey Curtis, eight years 
ago. 

CHARLES L. CURTIS, son of Charles, the pioneer settler, was born 
July 31, 1801, and married in February, 1825, Aurelia Loomis, daughter of 
Asa Loomis, Sr., who was born April 17, 1798. He died March 21, 1848. 
Mrs. Curtis died August 25, 1873. Their children are Caroline A., born 
April 17, 1834; Charles L., born February 13, 1836; Emerson G., born Novem- 
ber 2, 1838, and Austin P., born April 11, 1841. Austin P. Curtis married Amelia 
H. Bostwick October 3, 1870. His children are Lewis P.Curtis, born Decem- 
ber 30, 1871; Ray and Zada. (Ray P. Curtis died September 10, 1876). He 
has served as Justice of the Peace about twenty years. He resides on the old 
Curtis lands on Lot 29. 

WILLIAM FOX, Jr., son of William and Elizabeth (Myers) Fox, both 
natives of Pennsylvania, was born August 16, 1829, in Columbiana County, 
Ohio, where his parents had settled in 1811. In 1833 the family moved to 
this county, making a settlement in Charlestown Township, opposite Alpheus 
Baldwin's claim, and resided in the neighborhood until the death of William 
Fox, Sr., March 15, 1853, and of Mrs. Fox, Sr., November 28, 1877. Mr. Fox 
moved to Ravenna in 1850, and to Hiram Township in 1860, where he pur- 
chased the Mason homestead farm. This he conducted nineteen years, sold to 
Mr. Rice in 1879, and moved to his present home in Augerburg in 1879, 
where he purchased the Farnham homestead and residence. Mr. Fox was 
married April 29, 1854, to Miss Nancy HcHenry. He enlisted in the One 
Hundred and Forty- fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served through the 
term. He holds the offices of Infirmary Director and Justice of the Peace. 

JOSEPH LOOMIS, of Litchfield, Conn., came to Charlestown Township 
shortly after the arrival of the Hinckley colony in 1811, and resided in the 
town until his death in 1827. Ralzimon Loomis arrived here shortly after the 
Hinckley colony. He was a son of Joseph Loomis above-mentioned. His 
wife was Nancy Colt, of Connecticut. Willard (died after coming here), Clarissa 
(married Chauncey Curtis), and Sophia were also children of Joseph Loomis. 
Asa Loomis, a nephew of Joseph Loomis, came in 1822 from Connecticut, 
and in 1823 settled just west of the present Lewis Loomis farm. His children, 
who came with him, were Eliza.who married Andrew Haymaker; Lewis, who mar- 
ried Charity Hough, of Atwater, April 3. 1833; Beulah, who died about twen- 
ty-five years ago; Martha, who married Mr. Richards, of Garrettsville; Mary, 
who married R. Hinman, of Edinburg Township; Harriet, who married Henry 
Woodruff, of Trumbull County, and Abigail, who married Denison Bostwick, 
of Edinburg Township. Of the children born here Cornelius was married to 
Milly IMoore, daughter of Zebina Moore, of Franklin, October 21, 1850. 
Uriah B. Loomis, now residing on the homestead, was married to Elizabeth 
Boly, daughter of David Boly, of Rootstown; Addison Loomis, now of Clair- 
mont, Iowa, and Addison (first) Loomis, who died in youth. 




J, Mr(^^^^^-^j 



DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP. 621 

LEWIS LOOMIS, son of Asa Loomis, was born in Litchfield County, 
Conn., in 1809, came with his parents to Charlestown Township in 1822, and 
was married to Miss Charity Hough, of Atwater, April 3, 1833. In 1834 he 
purchased his present farm on Lot 35, from Sheldon Farnham. His children 
are Martin, married to Amorett, daughter of Chester Howard, of Aurora; 
Cornelia, married to Henry Gilmore; Amna, married to John Whitney, of 
Freedom Township. 



DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP. 



M. BOSWORTH, miller and farmer, P. O. North Benton, Mahoning 
Co., Ohio, was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, in 1846; son of Thomp- 
son and Annie (Curtis) Bosworth, a pioneer family of Trumbull County, 
where the former died in 1849. They were parents of three children, two of 
whom are now living — Mark and Thompson. The widow and her family sub- 
sequently removed to Deerfield Township, this county, where our subject 
received his primary education and grew to manhood. He was married in 
1871 to Miss Mary, daughter of John and Margaret Hartzell, of Deerfield Town- 
ship, this county. By this union there are the following children now living: 
John, Delmer and Charles Eosco, the latter born January 8, 1885. Mr. Bos- 
worth became associated with D. Lazarus in the milling business in 1876, 
which partnership still continues. He is a stanch supporter of the principles 
of the Republican party. A member of the Presbyterian Church of Benton. 

H. E. DAY, farmer, P. O. Deerfield, was born on the banks of the Maho- 
ning River, in Deerfield Township, this county, November 23, 1804. His 
grandfather, Lewis Day, with Mr. Ely and Daniel Diver, came to this county 
in 1799, subsequently returned to the East, but came back here in 1800, 
bringing their families, and were the first to settle in Deerfield Township. 
The Day's settlement was east of the Center, and there two generations have 
lived and passed away. Munn and Lucy (Ely) Day, the parents of our sub- 
ject, were natives of Massachusetts and Connecticut respectively, and were 
parents of eight children, six of whom are now living. Our subject was mar- 
ried, first in 1830, to Miss Minerva Scranton, of Atwater, who died in 1838, 
leaving three children: Dudley M., born on the homestead in 1831, and who 
married Miss Mary Smith, of Portage County, Ohio, in 1856 (have three 
children); Edgar M., and Lucy H, wife of A. M. Crosser. Mr. Day was mar- 
ried on the second occasion to Miss Martha Wakefield, of New York State, 
who bore him four children: Ewing W., who enlisted in Company D, Sixty-fifth 
Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantiy. and was killed in the battle of Stone 
River; Louisa, wife of Charles Newton; Laura E., wife of F. Hart- 
zall; and Heman L. Mr. Day was engaged in the tannery erected in 
Deerfield by Jesse Grant, father of Gen. Grant, with whom he had pleasant 
business associations. Our subject is Trustee of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, of which he has been a consistent member for many years. 

SAMUEL DIVER, farmer, P. O. Deerfield, was born on the homestead 
fai-m at Deerfield Center, January 16, 1817; son of John and Christena (Hart- 
zall) Diver, whose history appeal's elsewhere in this volume. Our subject was 
married in this county in 1840, to Miss Miriam, daughter of Peter Mason, a 
pioneer of this county, and of which she is a native. The children born to 



622 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

this union, who are all living, are as follows: Mary P., wife of Charles Shaef- 
fer; Kosella, wife of Oliver Mowen; Alvira, wife of A. McGowan; and 
Almira, wife of I. Hartzell. Mr. Diver has a farm of 110 acres on which he 
settled in 1840, and which he has brought under a high state of cultivation. 
He may be said to be a model farmer, and a true type of pioneer stock. The 
family is noted for its industry, all the members having borne a part in clear- 
ing the lands and beautifying their homes. JNIr. Diver is a member of the 
Disciples Church. In politics he is a stanch supporter of Republican principles. 

JOSEPH DIVER, farmer, P. O. Deertield, is a descendant of one of the 
oldest pioneer families in Deerfield Township, this county, where he was born 
in 1823. His grandfather, Daniel Diver, was a native of Germany, who along 
with Lewis Day and Mr. Ely traded for a large tract of land, divided it into 
lots, put the tickets into a hat and made a drawing of same, Daniel Diver 
securing the center. Here the family made a settlement in the wilderness in 
1801, and around their cabin home sprang up a prosperous village. John 
Diver, of Blandford, Mass., father of our subject, resided with his father and 
assisted him to clear the land. About 1834 he erected the "Diver House" 
and conducted the hotel nearly to the close of his life. He carried the mail on 
horseback between Cleveland and Pittsburgh, having to pass through eighteen 
miles of wilderness. On one occasion he found a man left by a brook to die, 
took him home, and by careful attention saved his life. He was married on 
first occasion to Miss Laura Ely, who bore him three children, of whom Osman 
only survives. His second marriage was with Christena Hartzell, by whom he 
had nine children, of whom are now living Samuel; Polly, wife of William 
Spires; Joseph; and Christena, wife of N. Gillis. He lived to attain the age 
of eighty-four years, and when he died left each of his children a small farm 
with which to begin life. Our subject was married in 1847, to Miss Lucinda 
Wilcox, a native of Deerfield Township, this county. Eight children born to 
this union are all living: Edwin, Ella, Gertrude, John, Wallace, Julia, Minaie 
and Eugene. He succeeded his father as proprietor of the " Diver House," but 
subsequently leased it and devoted himself to farming. He has been very 
successful and his acres have accumulated until now he is one of the promi- 
nent farmers and landholders in the township. 

WILLIAM DUSTMAN, farmer, P. O. Deerfield, was born in Berlin, 
Mahoning Co., Ohio, February 6, 1836; son of Daniel and Catherine (Good- 
man) Dustman, natives of Mahoning County, where they still reside, and par- 
ents of the following children now living: Jacob, William, Hannah (wife of 
Hugh Swai-tz), John, Abraham, Mary Ann (wife of C. Harman), Isaac, Louisa 
(wife of E. Harman). The maternal grandfather, John Goodman, and paternal 
grandfather, Jacob Dustman, were among the early founders of Berlin Town- 
ship, Mahoning Co., Ohio. Our subject was married at Berlin, in 1860, to 
Miss Sarah A. , daughter of Henry Goodman, by whom he has two children — 
Milton H. and Minnie V. In 1864 Mr. Dustman settled on his farm of eighty 
acres in this township, also retaining the ownership of his farm of ninety 
acres in Mahoning County. He has served in several ofl&cial positions in 
Deerfield Township, this county. He advocates the principles of the Repub- 
lican party; is a citizen highly esteemed. A member of the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church. 

MASON GIBBS, retired, P. O. Deerfield, was born in Worcester County, 
Mass., in 1801; son of Dolphin and Asineth (Fay) Gibbs. The family 
removed to Cheshire County, N. H., where the parents died. Our subject was 
married, October 31, 1835, to Miss Mary, daughter of Charles Reed, who died 
June 19, 1880, the mother of two children, and of whom the only survivor is 



DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP. 623 

Julia, who is living at hotiie and caring for her aged father. Mr. Gibbs 
came West in 18"2S, and located at Strongsville, Cuyahoga Co. , Ohio; from 
there he moved to Deerlield, this county, in 1881, and entered into mercantile 
trade in same year. This he carried on successfully until ISTI, and was also 
largely interested in stock-growing. At the close of his mercantile career his 
store was converted into a dwelling, one of the neatest and most ci-mmodious 
in the township. Mr. Gibbs retired from all active pursuits in 1883. He is 
Trustee in the Methodist Episcopal Church, with which he has been long 
identified. 

IRA GILBERT, farmer, Deerfield, was born in Palmyra Township, this 
oounty, in 1831, son of James and Charlotte (Cox) Gilbert, and a direct 
descendant of Sir John Gilbert, of England, who obtained the first land grant 
in Connecticut from the Crown. The parents of our subject settled in Pal- 
myra Township, this county, in 1811, where they lived to the close of their 
lives. Their children are Everett, Ira and Lucinda, wife of David Daniel. 
Our subject was twice married, on first occasion in 1855, in Paris Township, 
this county, to Miss Harriet, daughter of John Colwell, of this county, and 
who died in 1879. She was the mother of six children, four of whom are now 
living: Frank, John, Frederick and Mary. Mr. Gilbert married, on second 
occasion, in January, 1882, Mrs. Cynthia Green, daughter of George and 
Polly (Ward) Carris, of Rootstown, Ohio, and who were among its earliest 
pioneers. "Mother" Ward's pond was named after one of Mrs. Gilbert's ances- 
tors. Mr. Gilbert has been a resident of Deerfield Township, this county, for 
forty five years. His present farm, comprising 155 acres, was first settled by 
Alva, son of Judge Day, and was among the first cleared in the township. 
Our subject is a stanch suj^porter of Democratic principles, and one of the 
most active and respected citizens of Deerfield Township. 

HENRY HARTZELL was born in Northampton County, Penn., October 5, 
1801. His father, John Hartzell, with his family, moved from Pennsylvania to 
Deerfield in 1805, and after living for some time in a log-house he burned 
brick and built the first brick house in the township. Of the ten children of 
the family at this date, March 26, 1885, there are only two living, Henry and 
Polly, now wife of Rev. John Shafifer. Henry Hartzell remained at home 
until twenty. three years of age. He then married Miss Annie Sheets, who 
died, leaving three children. They are still living, being named Simon, Mary 
and John. His second wife was Miss Jane Smart, a native of Pennsylvania. 
Three sons, Eli, James and George, and two daughters, Annie and Lucy, sur- 
vive her. His third wife was Catherine B. Sullivan, to whom he was man'ied 
October 19, 1848. To them no children have been born. Their married life 
is yet unbroken by death. Mr. Hartzell settled on the farm where he now 
resides, in the southern part of Deerfield, in 1857, on which years ago he 
erected a large and commodious brick residence, and when eighty-one years 
old — 1882 — planned and superintended the building of a very large and con- 
venient barn. For twelve years he has suffered severely from varicose ulcers 
upon his limbs, but in body and mind he is still strong and vigorous. In the 
days of slavery he was a bold, outspoken anti-slavery man, bearing the brand 
of an " Abolitionist." Since then he has been a supporter of the Republican 
party, and on temperance he is a radical Prohibitionist. W^ithout the advan- 
tages of education, by untiring industry he has been a successful business 
man, and in his ripe old age, with bright Christian trust, he is patiently wait- 
ing for the end. 

MRS. MARGARET HARTZELL, Deerfield, Ohio, was born in Milton 
Township, Trumbull Co., Ohio, in I8l6; daughter of James Parshall and 



624 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 

Margaret Baight, a pioneer family of Trumbull County, Ohio. Our subject 
was united in marriage, in 1841, with John Hartzell, a native of Lancaster 
County, Penn., who at fourteen years of age came with his father to this 
county. Here he grew up, and by industry and perseverance accumulated 
sufficient means to purchase the land where he established a home which 
stands as a monument to his memory. He died September 1, 1873, aged 
eighty years, eleven months and twenty- five days, leaving a widow and two 
children — Anna and Mary, the latter the wife of Mark Bosworth — to mourn 
his loss. Mrs. Margaret Hartzell is a member of the Presbyterian Church at 
North Benton, Mahoning Co., Ohio. 

FRANK HARTZELL, farmer, P. O. Deertield, was born in Deertield 
Township, this county, September 14, 1838, a son of George Hartzell, who 
was born in Deertield Township, May 12, 1811, and who, with his father, 
William Hartzell, and his grandfather, George Hartzell, settled in the eastern 
portion of Deertield Township in 1807. The family came from Bucks County, 
Penn. George Hartzell, father of our subject, was married to Miss Emily, 
daughter of Peter Mason, and who was born in Deertield Township, in 1813. 
To this union were born Sebra W. , Frank and Lewis D. George Hartzell 
died April 5, 1881, and his widow now resides near her son. Our subject was 
married, July 8, 1875, to Miss Laura E., daughter of Heman E. Day, and a 
native of Deertield Township, this county. Three children have been born to 
this union, all now living: M.Cecelia, H. Augustus and G. Nelson. Mr. Hartzell 
possesses a farm of 133 acres. He is a man of enterprise and highly esteemed 
by all who know him. 

JOHN H. HOFFMAN, Deertield, was born in Northampton County, Penn., 
April 4, 18'.^3, son of John and Maria (Siegfried) Hoffman, natives of Penn- 
sylvania. Their living children are John H., James J., Henry E., Michael 
S. and Amanda. The father died in 1879, aged eighty-three years; the 
mother is now in her eightieth year. Our subject learned the tinsmith's trade 
and settled at Reading, Penn., where he was married in 1847, to Miss Rosan- 
nah Baker, a native of Reading, Berks Co., Penn., and to this union were 
born three children, now living: Mary A., wife of J. N. Gibbons, Wintield 
S., who is engaged in the tin and stove trade at Alliance, and Josephine, wife 
of Edwin J. Day. Mr. Hoffman settled in Deertield, this county, in 1858, 
and in 18G2 as a substitute entered the ranks of the Union Army, in Company 
F, Forty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He participated in the battles of 
Chickasaw Bluffs, Arkansas Post, Grand Gulf, Port Gibson, Champion Hill, 
Black River Bridge and the siege of Vicksburg, from which point he was hon- 
orably discharged and returned to his home in Deertield, Portage Co. , Ohio. 
Mr. Hoffman has served as Constable in Pennsylvania, and in Deertield Town- 
ship, this county, and for eighteen years has been Justice of the Peace. He 
frequently attends the German Reformed Church in his native State. In 
politics he is a stanch Republican. He cast his tirst ballot in the old Whig 
party, for Henry Clay. 

H. D. HUTSON, farmer, P. O. Deertield, was born in Paris Township, this 
county, August 4, 1827, son of Lazarus and Minerva (Laughlin) Hutson. the 
former born on the banks of the Juniata River, Pennsylvania, the latter a 
native of Deertield Township, this county, and a daughter of James Laughlin, 
who erected the tirst grist-mill on the Mahoning River, and died in Deertield 
Township in 1852, aged eighty years. The children born to this union now 
living are Hiram, Homer, Henry and H. D. In 1852 our subject began his 
career in life as a pilot on the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers between Pitts- 
bui-gh and New Orleans. At the breakins out of the Rebellion he entered the 



DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP. 625 

service as pilot of the Mississippi squadron, assigned to the brig "Restless " 
subsequently was put in charge of the repair boat "Swallow," and was so 
engaged at No. 10, Fort Pillow, Memphis and Vicksburg, where he was taken 
sick and confined in hospital for three months, during which time his vessel 
was destroyed by the Rebels. On his recovery he took his position on the 
" W. H. Brown" dispatch boat, and had charge as pilot of the "Benton" on 
her memorable trip on the Yazoo River, and participated in the battle at Fort 
Donelson. His service terminated with the close of the war. He subse- 
quently purchased a share in a steamer which he commanded seven years sue 
cessfully, and disposed of it in 1875, then came to this countv, settlino- on his 
present farm of 150 acres. He is the founder of and interest'ed in the^Hutson 
Coal Company. Mr. Hutson was married, in 1862, to Miss Charlotte C Vaughn 
a native of Trumbull County, Ohio, by whom he has had one child— Charles 
W. H.— who died in 1876. Our subject has served the township as Trustee 
He 18 a member of the Disciples Church. 

JOHN W. JONES, P. O. Deerfield, a successful and progressive farmer 
was born m North Wales, in 1818. His parents, William and Ann Jones' 
immigrated to the United States in 1831 and settled in Pittsburgh where 
the father died; they had a large family, eight of whom came to this country. 
Our subject had no educational advantages and early learned to labor. He 
worked at the big hammer in the mills at Pittsburgh, and by close economy 
and perseverance was enabled to save something from his hard earned wages 
He was married in that city, May 2, 3839, to Miss Mary GriflBth, a native of 
Maryland and of Welsh descent. Mr. Jones came to Deeriield Township, this 
county, m 1853, and located on his present farm (of which he is now the 
owner) comprising tifty acres of good productive land. He has erected a fine 
commodious residence, and made all the improvements necessary to a first-class 
farm. Our subject gave his services to the Union Army in 1862, enlisting in 
the One Hundred and Twenty -fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. After a sei-vice 
of over ten months he was honorably discharged on account of sickness occa- 
sioned by exposure. Politically he supports the Republican ticket. 

JOHN LAZARUS, farmer, P. O. Deerfield, was born in Northampton 
County, Penn., June 22, 1804; son of Frederick and Christena Hartzell, natives 
of that county. This family pioneered its way west, in 1807, traveling through 
the wilderness to Ellsworth, from whence a road had to be cut, and they 
passed the remainder of their lives in Deerfield Township. Their living chil- 
dren are Joseph, John, George, Annie, Mary and Betsey. Our subject was 
married in Trumbull County,i Ohio, in 1829, to Miss Isabella Moore, who 
died m 1855, the mother of three children, two of whom are living- Sarah 
wife of F. Kirkbright, and Mary, wife of Joshua Hartzell. Mr. Lazarus owns 
a farm of 160 acres on which he settled after marriage. He is connected with 
the Presbyterian Church of Benton. In politics he supports the Republican 
party. ^ 

DANIEL LAZARUS, a member of the firm of Lazarus & Bosworth, mil- 
lers, P. O. Deerfield, was born in Deerfield Township, this county, in 1839 
^^^?^^^°^'^^' ^ ^^*'^'® °^ Pennsylvania, and Jane (Craig) Lazarus, a native 
o± Mahoning County, Ohio, of which place the latter' s parents were among 
the earliest pioneers. Our subject was married, in 1865, to Miss Drusilla 
daughter of Thompson Bosworth. They are the parents of the following 
children now living: Effie and Mary. Mr. Lazarus is the senior partner of 
the above firm, which operates a mill erected by him in 1872, on the site of a 
structure built in 1822, by Peter Lazarus, and adjoins a saw-mill erected in 
J«lb, the first built m Deerfield Town.ship. The present mill is provided with 



626 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

two run of buhrs, and has a capacity of sixty bushela of wheat and 200 of 
feed per diem. Our subject is an officer in the Presbyterian Church of 
Benton, and is highly esteemed as a citizen and neighbor. 

H. S. LOOMIS, farmer, P. O. Deerfield, was born in Randolph Township, 
this county, December 12, 1834; son of Harlow and Maria (Ward) Loomis, the 
former born in Wallingford, Conn., in 1798, the latter in Randolph Town- 
ship, in 1808, a daughter of Josiah Ward. These families were among the 
earliest pioneers to settle in Randolph, Josiah Ward coming in 1803. The 
parents lived to a ripe old age, combating the privations and hardships of pio- 
neer life to see as the re.sults of their labor the fields to bloom and ripen with 
abundance. Of their children five are living: Alfred, a resident of Washing- 
ton Territory; Celinda, wife of William Brocket; H. S. ; Sardis and Albert H. 
Stephen J., the fifth child in the family, enlisted during the late war of the 
Rebellion, in the One Hundred and Fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was 
killed at Atlanta, Ga. The subject of this sketch was brought up on a farm, 
and was married, in Suffield Township, this county, in 1860, to Miss Malinda 
Wise, a native of Greentown, Ohio. Four children were born to this union 
all now living: Alva A., Stephen W., Rose B. and Humbert H. Mr. Loomis 
has always been industrious, and very successful, and as the results of his 
many years of labor has a fine farm of 242 acres in Deerfield Township, 
which he is continually improving. The family are highly respected members 
of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

A. MARSH, proprietor of flax-mill, P. O. Deerfield, was born in England, 
in 1827; son of Emanuel and Anna Marsh. He immigrated to the United States 
in 1849 and located at Waterford, N. Y., where he worked at his trade. Four 
years later he removed to Springfield, Ohio, and was employed at various 
places until his coming to Deerfield, this county, in 1864. He operated a mill 
in Deerfield Township (since destroyed), and in 1876 came into possession of 
his present mill, originally built by Peter Lazarus in about 1840. It has now 
a capacity of turning out 3,000 pounds of flax per day, which is marketed in 
Pennsylvania and Indiana. Mr. Marsh has made his investment successful. He 
was married, in Waterford, N. Y., in 1850, to Miss Mary A. Wright, a native 
of England, by whom he has the following children: Alice; Giles H., married 
to Rhoda Mahuran; Flora L., wife of P. Case; Emma; Rose; Mattie; Minnie 
and Frank. Politically Mr. Marsh supports the principles of the Republican 
party. His family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

BENJAMIN D. MISNER, carpenter, P. O. Deerfield, is a native of Indi- 
ana County, Penn., where he was born in 1819; son of Benjamin and Eve 
(Ditch) Misner, natives of Pennsylvania, who came to Ohio in 1822 and were 
among the early pioneers of Mahoning County, where the father died in 1854 
They reared a family of ten children, as follows: John, Samuel, David, Jacob, 
George, Benjamin D. , Joseph, Elizabeth, Catherine and Eve. Our subject 
was married, in Mahoning County, Ohio-, in 1861, to Miss Caroline A. Hart- 
zell, a native of Pennsylvania, who has borne him one daughter — Mary H. , 
wife of William Wilson. Mr. Misner came to Deerfield Township, this county,, 
in 1862. He is a carpenter by trade, an occupation he followed through life 
with considerable success, and as the fruits of his industry has secured the 
needed comforts for his old age. 

ISAAC MOTT, farmer, P. O. Deerfield, one of the oldest native residents, was 
born in Deerfield Township, this county. May 10, 1812. His grandfather, 
Ezekiel Mott, a soldier in the Revolutionary war, was among the pilgrims of 
1807 to Deerfield Township, where he cleared a farm and lived to the close of 
his life. Elijah Mott (father of our subject) was born during the Revolutionary 



DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP. 627 

war, and was married to Miss Annie Rose, who bore him ten children, of 
whom only Sylvester and Isaac survive. The subject of this sketch was mar- 
ried, in Deertield Township, this county, April 17, 1884, to Miss Elizabeth 
Jobes, born June 25, 1810. Their living children are Cornelius, married to 
Miss Carsou (have one child — Ada); Cornelia, married to Samuel Mell (their 
children are Isaac, Frank and Minnie). In 1844 Mr. Mott settled on his 
present farm consisting of 150 acres, where he has since made his home. He 
is a member of the United Brethren Church. Politically he is a stanch 
Republican. 

T. R. MOWEN, farmer, P. O. Deerfield, was born in Columbiana County, 
Ohio, May 14, 1824; son of Daniel and Elizabeth Mowen (whose record 
appears elsewhere in this volume). Our subject was married, in 1844, to Miss 
Elizabeth B., daughter of Ephraim B. Hubbard (deceased), a pioneer of Deer- 
field Township, this county. To this union there was boi-n one son — -Walter 
E., married to Miss Alice, daughter of Stephen Randall, by whom he has one 
son — Don T. Mr. Mowen came to this county in 1844, settling in Deertield 
Township. In 1858 he purchased his present estate, com prising seventy 
acres, and his farm is well improved and ably managed by himself and son. 
Mr. Mowen is a Deacon in the Disciples Church. 

OLIVER P. MOWEN, farmer, P. O. Deertield, was born at Fredericks- 
burg, Ohio, April 25, 1843; son of Daniel and Elizabeth (Rudicill) Mowen, 
the former born September 11, 1792, at Hagerstown, Md., on the tield where 
the battle of Antietam was subsequently fought, and died at Fredericksburg 
April 8, 1845. The latter is a native of Springtield, Mahoning Co., Ohio, 
where she was born April 21, 1797, of German descent. She is now in the 
eighty-eighth year of her age. She is the mother of ten children. Our sub- 
ject enlisted during the late war of the Rebellion in Company D, One Hundred 
and Fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, participated in the efforts 
made to repulse John Morgan when he ventured on his raid through Ohio, and 
was discharged on account of sickness December 9, 1862. He was married, in 
1869, to Miss Rosella, daughter of Samuel Diver and a native of Deertield 
Township, and by this union there is one child living — Mabel. Their eldest 
child, Sammy, born October 15, 1872, died after a brief illness July 8, 1874. 
In 1870 Mr, Mowen settled on his present farm of sixty acres, which he has 
greatly improved and converted into one of the neatest homes in Deertield 
Township. It may be observed that it is the same farm settled on by Mrs. 
Mowen' s grandfather, Peter Mason, an early pioneer of Deertield Township. 
Our subject is a member of the congregation of the Disciples Church; he] has 
served as Township Assessor for two years. 

HENRY W. MUERMAN, tanner and currier, P. O. Deerfield, is a native 
of Westphalia, Prussia, where he was born in 1838; a son of Charles H. and 
Sophia S. (Thierman) Muerman, both deceased. Of their children four came 
to America, of whom three are now living: Christian A., in 1851, President of 
the Board of Equalization, also engaged in the insurance business at Cleve- 
land; Harman, in 1855, proprietor of the Burnet Hotel, Lima, Stark Co., 
Ohio; and Henry W. In 1853 our subject came to America and direct to 
Deerfield, this county, where his brothers. Christian and Morris, were operat- 
ing a tannery, formerly the property of Dr. Curtis. It was built about 1815, by 
Jesse Grant, father of Gen. U. S. Grant. Our subject subsequently leased the 
tannery of his brothers, succeeding them in the business in which he has since 
been very successful. He was married in this township in 1862. to Miss Jen- 
nie R. Schaeffer, a native of Smithtown, Mahoning Co., Ohio, and has three 
children living and one deceased. Those now living are John C, Paul M. 



628 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

and Helen E. Charles is deceased. Mr. Mnerman has a farm of forty-six 
acres, which he conducts in addition to his other business. He is a consistent 
member of the Christian Church, of which he is Deacon, chorister and organ- 
ist. He is well and favorably known. 

CHARLES PARHAM, farmer, P. O. Yale, was born in Dorsetshire, En- 
gland, in 1817; son of Thomas and Mary (Babcock) Parham, both now 
deceased. Our subject immigrated to this country in 1835, and located in Buf- 
falo, N. Y., where he learned the painter's trade. After remaining there two 
years, he removed to Warren, Trumbull Co. , Ohio, working at his trade there 
until his settlement in Deerlield Township, this county, in 1842. At this time 
he had, by careful management, saved enough to purchase twenty-five acres of 
land; a second purchase of nine acres followed, and at this time he is the 
possessor of a farm of 155 acres, secured by his own industry and frugality. 
He was married in Warren, Ohio, June 2, 1840, to Miss Rebecca Davis, who 
has borne him six children — Henry, who served three months in the Union 
Army during the late Rebellion; Albion, who enlisted in the One Hundred and 
Fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was killed before Atlanta, Ga., during 
the war of the Rebellion; Martha, wife of N. Dodge; Sabina, Hiram and 
Frederick C. Mrs. Parham died June 17, 1859, and on August 4, 1861, our 
subject married Miss Mary A. Meads, a native of Brighton, England, by 
whom he has one son., John M., married to Miss Eliza Kibler, and residing 
on the homestead. Mr. Parham is a Trustee of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, and is highly esteemed by all who know him. 

ANTHONY REED, farmer, P. O. Deerfield, was born in Columbiana County, 
Ohio, in October, 1811, son of William and Mary (Middlesworth) Reed; for 
mer born in the State of Delaware, the latter in West Virginia. (Their his- 
tory appears in another portion of this volume.) The family settled in the 
southern portion of Deerfield Township, this county, in 1812, where the par- 
ents lived to the close of their lives. Our subject's advantages for receiving 
an education were very limited, and his father realizing this fact, erected a 
log-schoolhouse, in which he taught his own and the neighbors' children in 
his spare moments. Anthony resided on the old homestead until thirty years 
of age. He was married in 1842 to Miss Elizabeth Lazarus, a native of Deer- 
field Township, this county. This union has been blessed with two children 
— Amelia, wife of William R. Shilliday (have four children, Maggie, Arad, 
Mattie and Mary), and Mary, widow of George Ganze (by whom she had two 
children, Joel and Mabel), and who is residing on the old homestead with her 
children, a comfort to her father in his declining years. Mr. Reed, when 
twenty-one years of age, purchased sixty-six acres of land, to which he subse- 
quently added until he is now owner of 429 acres. He inherited but a small 
amount of money, and his accumulations are the result of his own energy and 
industry. He is a member of the Congregational Chur.ch. 

JAMES REED, farmer, P. O. Deerfield, was born in Brooke County, W. 
Va., in 1809, a grandson of Anthony Middlesworth, a Hollander by birth, 
and son of William and Mary (Middlesworth) Reed, the former born in the 
State of Delaware August 23, 1778; the latter a native of West Virginia. They 
had a family of twelve children, of whom eight are still living. The family 
were among the pioneers of this county of 1812, and settled two and a half 
miles south of the center of Deerfield Township. William Reed here cleared 
eighty or ninety acres of land and passed the remainder of his life, attaining 
the ripe age 'of eighty-five years. Our subject was brought up on the farm, 
receiving the limited education obtainable in that early day. Being reared in 
the wilderness he early learned to swing the ax and to toil with his hands. At 






^^^^^^ 



C^'-^-K^ 



DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP. 631 

the age of twenty-OBe he began the struggle of life for himself, and by per- 
severance, industry and frugality he accumulated a fine estate, comprising over 
290 acres of land. He was mai*ried September 14, 1852, to Miss Rebecca A. 
McMillen. The family are connected with the Presbvterian Church. 

LINUS REED, farmer, P. O. Deerlield, was born March 30, 1815, in 
Deerfield Township, this county, son of William and Mary (Middlesworth) 
Reed, whose history appears elsewhere in this work. Our subject attended 
the school taught by his father, and held in the log-schoolhouse erected by the 
latter, and resided on the old home farm until his marriage in 1838, in Stark 
County, Ohio, with Sarah B., daughter of David Swaine, and a native of New 
Jersey. To this union were born two children, Mary A. (deceased) and 
Ardelia. Our subject is a self-made man; commencing with but $50, he has 
accumulated a comfortable competency. He taught school for tifteeu terms at 
$12 per month, and from his savings made his first purchase of land at $9 per 
acre; for his next purchase he paid $30, and the residence which he is now 
building to replace one destroyed by fire will cost $1,800. When he first set- 
led on his present farm it was covered with woods, which had to be cut away 
to make room for his log-cabin. His first purchase was twenty-six acres, to 
which he added seventy-two, and he has also bought lands elsewhere which he 
disposed of advantageously. Mr. Reed is one of the oldest residents of Deer- 
field Township. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church. 

MARK B. REGAL, farmer, P. O. Deerfield, was born November 5, 1840, 
in Deerfield Township, this county, son of John and Lucinda (Laughlin) 
Regal, who are among the oldest living pioneers of Deerfield Township. They 
were parents of ten children and have sixteen grand-children. The subject 
of this sketch was brought up on the home farm and, after securing an educa- 
tion, for several years worked during summer and taught in the winter seasons. 
He was married in 1877, to Anna, daughter of John and Margaret Hartzell, 
and widow of Miller McGowan (by whom she had five children, all now living: 
Lelia, wife of James Watson, Margaret, Alsora, John and Gertrude). The 
home farm consists of ]66 acres, and is one of the best cultivated and improved 
in the township. Mr. and Mrs. Regal are members of the Disciples Church. 

WILLIAM M. SHEFELTON, farmer, P. O. Deerfield, was born in 
Trumbull County, Ohio, in 1831, son of John and Jane (French) Shefelton, 
natives of Washington County, Penn. His grandfather, John Shefelton, one 
of the earliest pioneers of that county, along with his son crossed the moun- 
tains on horseback in August, 1804, securing 160 acres of land in Newton 
Township, where they erected a shanty, after which the former returned East 
and brought back his family, the son remaining in the cabin through the win- 
ter and living on the results of his hunting expeditions. John and Jane Shef- 
elton, our subject's parents, reared a family of eight children, seven of whom 
are now living: George J., Eliza, Melissa, Joseph R., Alexander F., Cynthia 
and William M. Our subject enlisted at Newton Falls during the late war of 
the Rebellion, December 7, 1861, in Company D, Sixth Regiment, Ohio Vol- 
unteer Cavalry, and participated in the following engagements: Woodstock, 
Va.; Mount Jackson, Va. ; Harrisonburg; Cross Keys, Va. (these four 
engagements were in Jvine, 1862); Luray, Va. (July 28, 1862); Cedar Moun- 
tain; second Bull Run, Va. ; Fredericksburg; Kelly's Ford, Va. ; Chancellors- 
ville; Brandy Station; Middleburg, Va. ; South Mountain, Md.; Hagerstown, 
Md. ; Boonsboro; Jones' Cross Roads, Md. ; Culpeper Court House, Va., 
and was injured by his horse falling on him while charging a Rebel battery at 
Auburn Mills, Va. , October 14, 1863. He re-enlisted in the veteran service 
December 24, 1863, and was in the following engagements: Malvern Hill, 

33 



632 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Va., July 28, 1864; Weldon Kailroacl, Va., August 21, 1864; Boydstowu 
Plank Road, Va., October 27, 1864; Hatcher's Run, Va., December 20, 1864; 
Hatcher's Run, Va., February 6, 1865; Dinwiddie Court House, Va., April 6. 
1865; Appomattox Court House, April 9, 1865, and served till the close of the 
sti-uggle, losing his health from injuries and exposures. Mr. Shefelton pur- 
chased his present farm of 159 acres in 1866, and was married in 1867 to 
Miss Deborah Hartzell, by whom he has had four children, two now living 
— Hartzell J. and Charles R., now (1885) respectively fifteen and seven years 
of age. 

J. L. SLxiCK, farmer, P. O. Deertield, was born in Paris Township, Stark 
Co., Ohio, in 1830; son of Henry and Catherine (Gardner) Slack, natives of 
Bradford County and Columbiana Co., Ohio, respectively. They were the parents 
of the following children: John G., Jesse L., Andrew J. and Louis B. The 
Slacks were among the earliest pioneers of Stark County, the father of our 
subject being but two years of age when he left Virginia with his father. Our 
subject remained on the homestead until he was eighteen years of age, when 
he went to New Franklin, Ohio, and served a thx^ee years' apprenticeship to 
the carpenter's trade. In 1860 he purchased a small farm in Deerfield Town- 
ship, and completed a partially built grist and saw-mill on the Mahoning River 
near his place. These industries he has successfully conducted in connection 
with his farm, which now comprises 112 acres. He was married in Deerfield 
Township, this county, in 1854, to Miss Mary M., daughter of Ephraim B. 
Hubbard, of Deerfield Township, and has two children living: Laura, wife of 
S. F. Henseman, and Helen B. Mr. Slack for many years has been a member 
of the Disciples Cburch. In politics he is a Republican, though originally 
identified with the Whig party. 

ISAAC W. SMITH, P. O. Deerfield, was born in Deerfield Township, this 
county, July 11, 1832; a son of Joseph and Margaret (Wilson) Smith, the latter 
a native of Wilmington, Del.; the former a native of Beaver County, Penn,, was 
a grandson of Isaac Wilson, a native of Ireland, who started Joseph, subject's 
father, in mercantile trade in Deerfield, which he "followed to the close of 
his life. He also engaged in milling, and was one of the enterprising spirits 
of the early times. He reared a family of four children, three of whom are 
now liviuo-: Sarah A., wife of John Day; Isaac W., and Susan, wife of Friend 
Whittlesey. The subject of this sketch was married, December 25, 1855, to 
Miss Cornelia A Betts, a native of Conaecticut. To this union three children 
were born, all of whom are now living: Charles, married to Miss Lizzie Card 
(have one sou — Eddie); Joseph M., a resident of Huron, Dak.; and Jessie M. 
Mr. Smith has spent the most of his life in Deerfield Township. In April, 
1880, he obtained a contra,ct with the Government for carrying the mails from 
the C, Y. & P. R. R. to Deerfield, which duties he has faithfully performed 
and has never missed a mail. He has been mostly engaged in stock dealing, 
and has crossed the Allegheny Mountains fourteen times with stock. He was 
a traveling salesman for the Champion Machine Company, of Springfield, 
Ohio, for five years. At present he carries on the only livery in Deerfield, and 
also attends to his mail contract. His services on the road in the latter capa- 
city have made for him many friends, and by the children he is well and favor- 
ably known as "Uncle Ike." Mr. Smith has served as Constable of Deerfield 
Township. 

CHARLES M. SMITH, Deerfield, was born in Deerfield Township, this 
county, September 22, 1855; son of Isaac W. and Cornelia A. (Betts) Smith. 
He was reared on a farm, and lived on the homestead until his marriage, July 
10, 1879, with Miss Lizzie, daughter of Silas and Margaret Card. To this 



DEER FIELD TOAVNSHIP. 6B3 

union has been born one child — Edward C. In 1881 our subject became asso- 
ciated, as a salesman, in the house of John G. Preston, with whom he is con- 
nected at the present time. He has won hosts of friends from his boyhood 
up, bein;^ possessed of those qualities which endear him to all who know him. 

ISAAC ^y. SMITH, proprietor of the Bartlett House, P. O. Deerlield, was 
born in Smith Township, Mahoning Co., Ohio, May 1, 1850, son of William 
and Jane (Trotter) Smith. He was reared on a farm and early learned to 
labor. After securing an education he accepted a position as salesman at 
Kavenna, Ohio, with his brothers, with whom he remained some years. Sub- 
sequently he came to Deerlield, aad filled a similar position in the mercantile 
house of Wilson & Diver, where he remained until his purchase of the Bart- 
lett House in 1882. Under the able management of Mr. and Mrs. Smith this 
hotel has gained an extended reputation throughout the State, and is highly 
commended by the traveling public for its clean and well-ventilated rooms, the 
abundance of the table, and the care bestowed upon the guests by the host and 
hostess, who strive to make all feel at home. Our subject was married, Jwvm 
24, 1877, to Miss Ella L. , daughter of Joseph Diver, and a native of Deer- 
field. 

WILLIAM P. SPIERS, retired farmer, P. O. Deerfield, was born in 
Steeple Clayton, Buckinghamshire, England, in 1820, son of John and 
Rebecca Spiers, whose history appears in this volume. He has been a resident 
of Deerfield Township since the family made their settlement in 1833. Mr. 
Spiers served an apprenticeship at carriage-making, and worked over forty 
years at the business, but subsequently abandoned his trade and is now living 
a retii'ed life, occupying a pleasant residence with seventeen acres of land. 
He was married in 1846, to Miss Mary, daughter of John Diver, a native of 
Deerfield. To this union two children were born, both now living: Ethelbert 
B. , and Emma, married to Edward Lazarus (they have three children: Nellie 
A., Bertha and Lottie). Mr. Spiers is one of our oldest and most respected 
pioneers, and is well and favorably known. 

JOHN SPIRES, farmer and manufacturer, Deerfield, was born in Buck- 
inghamshire, England, December 13, 1800, son of Thomas and Ann (Perkins) 
Spires, who reared three sons and two daughters, John and James being the 
only survivors. The parents came to this county in 1833, and settled in Deer- 
field Township, but the father only lived about thirty days after his arrival. 
The mother died in August, 1852. Our subject came to America in 1832, stayed 
one year in New York, and then followed his parents to Deerfield Township, 
this county, where he began the struggle of life empty-handed But he was 
sagacious, frugal, ambitious, full of energy, and blessed with a rugged consti- 
tution. He was married, in 1820, to Miss Rebecca Parker, a native of Buck- 
inghamshire, England, by whom he had nine children, of whom are now liv- 
ing: William P., James, Ann P. Eddy (in Racine, Wis.), Hannah, Richard, 
Thomas J. and John A. Mrs. Spires died in 1881. Our subject in 1837 was 
enabled to purchase thirty-five acres of land. He now owns about 100 acres 
in Deerfield Township and 900 in Atwater Township, this county. The pot- 
tery at Atwater, Ohio, carried on under the firm name of John Spires & Sons, 
was purchased of the administrators of the late W. F. Burns in 1880. His 
first enterprise was to supply a pottery at Limaville, Stark County, with clay, 
in the year 1849. In the same year he built a saw-mill on Yellow Creek in 
Deerfield, which was used twenty-one years. It was then moved to its present 
site in Atwater, where it is now run by the firm. Mr. Spires, thouo-h well 
advanced in age, enjoys the best of health. During his residence here he has 
cleared 500 acres of land, most of which is under cultivation. 



634 BIOGRAPFnCx\L SKETCHES: 

FREDERICK D. TIBBALS, farmer, was born on the homestead farm in 
Deerfield Township, this county, November 24, 1S25, son of Alfred M., born 
in Granville, Mass.. August 14, 1797, and Martha (Swim) Tibbals, born in 
Burlington, N. J., November 26, 1800. They were married January 20, 1820, 
and were the parents of four sons, all now living: John L., Frederick D., Cui'- 
tis and Newell D. Alfred M. Tibbals was killed by a falling tree February 
26, 1858. His widow, though now advanced in years, is strong and vigorous 
in mind and body. The grandparents of our subject were Moses and Ruth 
(Spelman) Tibbals, the former born August 6, 1767, the latter March 24, 
1773. They were married April 18, 1790, and in 1804 they came to Deerfield 
Township, this county, from (irranville, Mass., bringing with them a team of 
oxen and a favorite cow. They settled on land still occupied by their poster- 
ity, cleared a space in the wilderness, and erected a rude hut, in which they 
lived until the brick house was built in 1816, and which is in use at this time. 
Moses Tibbals secured several hundred acres of land from Granger & Phelps, 
but subsequently disposed of all but 160 acres. The parents on both sides are 
deceased and buried in Deerfield. The Tibbals are of English descent, the 
first of this name settling in Massachusetts. Our subject was married, Novem- 
ber 15, 1858, to Miss Celia A., daughter of Peter Mason, a native of Deerfield, 
who died June 4, 1881, aged fifty-one years. Mr. Tibbals is mostly engaged 
in stock dealing. 

WILCOX FAMILY. It is impossible to trace the genealogy of the Wil- 
cox family to a veiy remote period, not farther than 1745, at which time Abel 
Wilcox, a resident of Connecticut, moved from Hebron, that State, to Sanders- 
field, Mass. His wife's maiden name was Susannah Hall. To them were born 
six children: Abel, Abijah, Jerusha, Hetty, Susannah and William. Abel, 
Jr., was united in marriage with Lois Chamberlain, of East Windsor, Conn. 
This union was blessed with three children: Amos, Abel and Jerusha. When 
quite advanced in life he with his family removed to Erie County, Penn., 
where he remained until his death. Abijah, the second son, was drowned. 
William, the youngest son of Abel and Susannah Wilcox, was born in San- 
dersfield, Mass., August 7, 1777. February 23, 1803, he married Lucinda 
Gibbs, of East Windsor, by whom he was the father of seven girls and five 
boys. Austatia, born July 27, 1805, died April 27, 1806. George, a bright 
and promising youth, born March 22, 1811, died July 29, 1821, aged ten years. 
The remaining children lived to manhood and womanhood, all settled in Ohio 
and became heads of families. In 1816 William Wilcox sold his farm to a 
man named Granger, who had previously been to Ohio and "taken up" several 
hundred acres of land lying in the northeastern part of the State, near where 
the city of Akron now stands. William Wilcox, highly pleased with Gran- 
ger's description of this land and of the surroundings, bought it before see- 
ing the property. They packed their goods, not for passage by railroad, but 
for passage by wagon behind ox teams, and started for their Western home. 
The teams consisted of three yoke of oxen, besides one horse; these drew two 
heavily laden wagons. Among the things in them were 200 pounds of wool, 
which Mrs. Wilcox carded, spun, and in two summers had woven into cloth. 
After due preparation, she made it into garments for family use. The journey 
through the wilderness — for it was forest — was long and tedious. At one time 
they were delayed a week by the illness of one of the children, and an acci- 
dent to Mr. Wilcox, whereby he hurt his knee, also detained them. Forty-one 
days from the time they left Massachusetts they arrived at their destination. 
They were sadly disappointed when they saw the land, for it was not what it 
had been represented. Granger at that time had a brother living in Deerfield, 



DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP. 635 

Portage Co., Ohio, and there was an exchange made between him and Mr. 
Wilcox, but not without sacrifice on the part of Wilcox, and early in the 
spring of 1818 they left for Deerfield, their future home. This property, sit- 
uated in the eastern part of the township on the Mahoning River, they were 
well satisfied with, and Mr. Wilcox said, "I have blundered on a good farm." 
Mr. Wilcox's health failed, and Juno 22, 1828, at the age of fifty-one, his 
spirit returned to God who gave it. His remains rest in the cemetery in 
Deerfield. Mrs. Wilcox lived to the advanced age of seventy-eight years, 
dying September 16, 1862. A noble Christian woman. She sleeps by the side 
of her companion. Seneca, son of Lucinda and William WMlcox, born Feb- 
ruary 25, 1804, was married to Samantha Wilson, of Palmyra, June 22, 1830 
(to them were born seven children: Desire, Emeline, Caroline, Lucinda, John, 
Cornelia and Melissa). He died November 23, 1863. Julia, born February 
17, 1807, widow of Riley Halleck (she was married November 15, 1827, and 
became the mother of eleven children: Gibbs, Louisa, William, Lucy Ann, 
Marion, Joel, Betsey, Erwin, Harriet, Elijah and Benjamin). Emily was 
born April 18, 1809, widow of Jesse Rogers, married March 25, 1832 (seven 
children were the result of this union: Eliza, Edwin, Linus, Maria, Henry, 
Harriet and Alice.) Harriet, born December 17, 1814, widow of Caleb Steele, 
married June 26, 1836 (at present she resides in Alliance); William L., born 
April 16, 1817, died August 5, 1851, was married to Clarissa Sheets, of Ber- 
lin (they had two children, daughters); Newell D., born May 15, 1819, mar- 
ried December 16, 1841, to Amelia Hall, of Palmyra (two sons, Wallace and 
Curtis, were the fruits of this marriage), died March 1, 1881; Mary M. , born 
August 22, 1821 (married, November 12, 1845, to Linus Sheets, of Berlin, 
Ohio (the result of this union was seven children: Maria, Newell, Clara, 
Emma, Warren, Eddie and Ellen), she died January 20, 1878; Lucinda, born 
February 8, 1824, married Joseph Diver, of Deerfield, November 26, 1846 (of 
their children, eight are living: Edwin, Ella, Gertie, John, Wallace, Julia, 
Minnie and Eugene), died March 4, 1877; Clarissa, born December 27, 1825, 
was married March 8, 1849, to Elias Mowen, of Deerfield (their children are: 
Alma, Marsha. Ursula, Judson and Wealthy). Alexander H. Wilcox, born in 
Sandersfield, Mass., November 27, 1812, acquired what education he could in 
the log-schoolhouse. Bereft of a father's care at the age of fifteen, he turned 
his energies to the trades of carpenter and joiner. Now, at the age cf seven- 
ty-two years, be displays his genius by inventing a patent fence, which is prov- 
ing a success. Mr. Wilcox has built bridges over the Mahoning River, and has 
erected many dwellings (the first house he built was one done without recom- 
pense for his widowed mother). Of the incidents of note that have trans- 
pired during his life was the capture of two horse thieves; one he captured at 
Georgetown, the other at Deerfield. He returned both horses in the possession 
of the thieves to their owners, and received a reward of $50 for the last one 
taken. He Avas married in 1837 to Betsey, daughter of John Diver, w^ho died 
August 6, 1850, leaving six children: Julia A., born February 17, 1838 (she 
was married November 24, 1858, to William B. Wilson, of Palmyra; died 
April 5, 1872); Harriet L. , born September 6, 1839, widow of Henry Carver, 
married August 4, 1867; George A., born October 2, 1841, married, October 3, 
1866, to Calista E. Kibler, of Palmyra; Joseph, born July 20, 1843, a young 
man with bright prospects, died at his home May 16, 1865, in his twenty- 
second year; William B., born May 20, 1845, married Adelia Haines, of Deer- 
field, March 4, 1879; Susan C, born January 11, 1847, died September 5, 
1850; Charles E., born August 5, 1849, married to Ida Packer September 28, 
1872. Mr. Wilcox was married, on second occasion, in 1851, to Adaline Bar- 



630 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

rack, of Maryland, by whom be lias had three children: Sarah, born November 
20, 1851, died November 3, 1861; Cornelius, born June 7, 1853; James B., 
born March 20, 1856, married July 2, 1882, to Susanna Shively, of Deerfield. 
Mr. Wilcox is among the few living pioneers of this tovpnship. In politics he 
is a stanch Democrat. He attended Cleveland's inauguration and visited Mt. 
Vernon. Casting his first ballot for Jackson, he has never lost but one Pres- 
idential vote, and that was for Horace Greely. Although the hand of time 
has touched his hair with bilver threads, Mr. Wilcox has lost none of the fire 
of ambition, or the vigor of his earlier manhood; his health is good, his frame 
elastic, and his capacity for endurance seemingly as great as ever. He is a 
highly esteemed and much respected citizen of Deerfield. 

JOHN S, WILSON, farmer, P. O. Deerfield, was born in Columbiana 
County, Ohio, in 1817, son of Isaac and Sarah (Givens) Wilson, natives of 
Delaware and parents of the following children: John S. , Isaac, Elizabeth, 
George and Joseph. Isaac Wilson, a paper-maker by trade, was appointed 
Superintendent of a mill on Little Beaver Creek, Columbiana Co., Ohio, by 
Cramer & Spear, of Pittsburgh, Penn Accepting this position he located 
there in 1814. He subsequently established a small stock of goods in a room, 
and his wife attended to the sale of same while he ran the mill. He was 
afterward admitted a partner in the concern and carried on the milling busi- 
ness until 1824, when he bought a farm of 175 acres near Franklin, Stark 
Courvty. Misfortunes came upon him soon after; his barn was struck by 
lightning and burned, and his son was caught beneath a falling tree and lost 
his limb. Returning to commercial pursuits he opened a tavern, which he con- 
ducted some years. Subsequently he removed to Salem, established himself in 
business there, and remained the balance of his life. He died August 1, 1846, 
aged sixty-one years. At the time of his death he had twelve stores under his 
control in different portions of the State. His widow lived to be eighty-three 
years of age. Our subject was married in Mahoning County in 1841, to Miss 
Sarah Everett, of New York, by whom he has had twelve children, seven of 
whom are now living: Mary, wife of S. Caldwell; Martha, wife of I. Diver; 
Frank, married to Bertha Benedict; Hartzell S., married to Sarah Hahn; Anna 
M. ; Morgan C. and Joseph. Mr. Wilson came to Deerfield Township in 1846, 
and for some years engaged in mercantile business. Prior to coming here he 
carried on a grist and saw-mill in Berlin Township, Mahoning County. 
He settled on a farm in the eastern part of this township, comprising over 
300 acres, and still owns 159 acres of same. In the spring of 1881 he occupied 
his present estate, comprising twenty-two acres of well- improved land. 
Although advanced in years our subject is strong mentally and physically. He 
is a member of the Presbyterian Church. 

ISAAC WILSON, merchant, Deerfield, was born in Liverpool, Columbiana 
Co., Ohio, in 1821, son of Isaac and Sarah (Givens) W'ilson. He came to 
Deerfield in 1840, and took charge of the business which he has since contin- 
uously and successfully carried on. He has a stock worth about $10,000, and 
enjoys a large and lucrative trade. He was married in 1844 to Miss Juliette, 
daughter of J. W\ Farnham, of Deerfield. Though they have no children of 
their own the death of Mr. Wilson's younger sister gave them an adopted son 
— William H. Wilson, who married Miss Nellie Misner, of Deerfield Town- 
ship, this county. Our subject is a man of pronounced business ability, unas- 
suming in his every-day life, and possessing those genial qualities of mind 
and heart that have won for him hosts of friends during his long career in 
business. Mr. Wilson has filled various offices of trust, and served as Post- 
master of Deerfield for upward of twenty-five years. 



EDINBURG TOWNSHIP. 637 

JOHN 1). WOODWARD, farmer, P. O. Deertield, was born in Fayette 
County, Penn., in 1830, son of Amos and Mary (Mallaby) Woodward, natives 
of Pennsylvania, who settled in Milton Township, Trumbull County, in 1848, 
thence removed to Palmyra, Portage Co., Ohio, where Mr. Woodward died in 
1856. His widow resides on the homestead, the mother of eight children: 
Mary, wife of M. Sutton; John, married to Lucinda Wilcox (have two chil- 
dren: Alice A. and Blanche); William, married to Cornelia AVilcox (have six 
children: Rowland, Cora, Mary E., MaudE., Joseph and Gertie); Elizabeth, 
widow of William Earnest (have three children: Reuben, Oliver and William); 
Albert, married to Julia Westover (their children are Ransom and Jane); Eliza 
J., wife of Evan Jones; Amos, married to Martha Jenkins (have two children : 
Wallace and Lemuel); Richard, married to Sarah Wilson (have two children: 
Conas E. and Archibald). Of these John and William settled on the present 
estate of 300 acres in Deerfield Township in 1864. Politically they are 
Republicans. They rank among the enterprising farmers of the county. 



EDINBURG TOWNSHIP. 



A. T. BACON, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in this county January 
28, 1816; son of William and Polly Bacon, natives of Connecticut and Ver- 
mont respectively, and who came to this county about 1800, where they lived 
and died, the father in 1850, the mother in 1864. Our subject was married 
August 31, 1843, to Cordelia C. Darling, born in New York in 1826, daughter 
of Thomas and Margaret Darling (both deceased). Mr. and Mrs. Bacon have 
had three children: William T., Wyllys D., and Mary V., wife of D. P. Shil- 
iady. Mr. Bacon, who was reared on a farm and has followed agricultural 
pursuits all his life, owns 195 acres of improved land in this county. He has 
filled the office of Township Trustee with credit to himself and to the satisfac- 
tion of his constituents. The Bacon family is an old and well respected one 
in this county, where the members have passed many years. 

GEORGE W. BARCLAY, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in Trumbull 
County, Ohio, May 28, 1810; son of Francis and Elizabeth Barclay, natives, re- 
spectively, of Pennsylvania and Virginia, and who were married in Pennsylvania, 
removing to Ohio in about 1800, where they settled in Trumbull County and 
remained until their death. George W^ Barclay was first married in Trumbull 
County, Ohio, April 11, 1831, to Hannah Dawson, a native of that county, where 
she was born in 1811, daughter of William and Margaret Dawson, and our sub- 
ject and wife then came to this county in 1832. Five children were born to 
this union: Elizabeth J., wife of Markus Allen, W^illiam, Francis, John R., 
and George D. After her death, which occurred June 14, 1847, Mr. Barclay, 
September 7, 1849, married Maria Greenleaf, who is still living, born in 
Augusta, Oneida Co., N. Y., August 27, 1820; daughter of Tilley and Maria 
Greenleaf, and by her he had one child, Harriet E., wife of Thomas Owen. 
Our subject has a farm of 113 acres in this county. He has served as a Justice 
of the Peace, Trustee and Assessc>r of this township. 

ANSEL A. BETTS (deceased) was born in Deerfield Township, this county, 
November 5, 1809, son of Hezekiah and Hulda H. Betts (both deceased). Our 
subject married on first occasion, September 15, 1830, Sophia Case, born March 
13, 1812, in Rootstown; died May 21, 1870. He then married, September 



638 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

22, 1870, Minerva F. Wilcox, born in South Norwalk, Conn., March 2, 1844, 
daughter of Stephen and Cornelia Wilcox, former of whom died December 12, 
1880, the latter October 16, 1857. Mr. Betts was the father of one child by his first 
wife — Almon, born July 4, 1832, died August 15, 1832; and by his last wife 
two children: Charles A., born June 29, 1871, and Almira, born April 9, 1878. 
Our subject was first engaged in farming, and afterward dealt in real estate. 
At the time of his death, June 23, 1884, he owned the home farm. 

LEWIS E. BOOTH, retired farmer, Edinburg, was born in New Milford, 
Litchfield Co., Conn. May 26, 1814; son of Eli and Elizabeth (Cowel) Booth, 
natives of Connecticut, the former born November 23, 1788, the latter April 2, 
1782, and who were married in Connecticut, and immigrated to Trumbull County, 
Ohio, in 1817, thence moved to this county in 1820, and here remained until 
their death. The father died April 9, 1867; the mother Septembers, 1872. 
Our subject was married March 26, 1837, to Lucy L. Booth, born in New Mil- 
ford, Litchfield Co., Conn., September 22, 1819, daughter of Mead and Deborah 
(Ruggles) Booth, natives of Connecticut, where they were married and whence 
they emigrated to Randolph Township, this county, in 1841; here they 
remained until their death, March 24, 1874, and September 30, 1875, respect- 
ively, at the house of our subject in this township. Their remains were taken 
to Randolph Township and there interred. Our subject and wife have had 
four children, two of whom are now living: Augustus D. , born July 15, 1838, and 
Melville, born January 26, 1847. The deceased are Wallace M., born Janu- 
ary 26, 1841, died October 9, 1845; Wilbert E., born July 12, 1844, died 
October 20, 3845. Mr. Booth has been a farmer all his life, and lived in Edin- 
burg Township, this county, sixty-one years. He and his wife have been con- 
sistent members of the ISIethodist Episcopal Church for over forty years. He 
has filled all the offices of trust in the church of Edinburg, and is held in high 
esteem by his many friends, " and they are legion." He says he does not 
expect to reach that point when all men will speak well of him, for upon such 
a ' ' woe be unto you" is pronounced from the Sacred W^rit. 

AUGUSTUS D. BOOTH, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in Edinburg 
Township, this county, July 10, 1838, son of Louis E. and Lucy L. Booth, 
sketches of whom appear in this volume. Our subject was married May 13, 
1859, to Elizabeth Hallock, born in Palmyra, this county, June 11, 1839, 
daughter of William R. and Julia Hallock, the former of whom was born in 
Connecticut in 1806, and the latter in Massachusetts in 1807. They removed 
to this county about 1817 and remained until Mr. Hallock's death in 1864. 
His widow now resides in Rootstown Township, this county. Mr. and Mrs. 
Booth have had five children, three of whom are now living: Clara A. (wife of 
Merwin D. White), William E. and Charles A. The deceased are Eddie and 
W^allace L Our subject owns fifty-three acres of improved land where he and 
his family reside. Himself and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church of this township. 

GEORGE BRIGDEN, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in Edinburg 
Township, this county, October 30, 1827, son of Thomas and Amelia Brigden, 
the former of whom was born in Massachusetts in 1804, the latter in Connect- 
icut, and who settled in Edinburg Township, this county, at a very early day, 
and where the mother died August 2, 1878, and the father still resides. Our 
subject was married March 28, 1849, to Nancy A. Carr, born in Pennsylvania 
June 27, 1829, daughter of Rev. Thomas and Orpha S. Carr, natives of Penn- 
sylvania, who settled in Edinburg Township, this county, about 1834, and hero 
passed the I'emainder of their days, Mr. Carr dying in 1857, his widow August 
31, 1883. Our subject and wife are the parents of three children, but one now 




>;&/!. cfy^/a/r/^ 




^ ,•♦ 




Mrs. Mary Clapp. 



EDINBURG TOWNSHIP. 643 

living — Ida A., wife of W. D. Turner, born June 25, 1851. Thomas H. and 
Hattie are deceased. Mr. Brigden is a farmer and owns a nice farm where he 
and his family reside. He has tilled the offices of Assessor and Trustee of his 
township with credit to himself. He has never missed an election, township, 
State or Presidential. Mrs. Brigden is a member of the Congregational 
Church. 

SAMUEL CALHOUN, patentee, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in Trumbull 
County, Ohio, September 23, 1823; son of Andrew and Elizabeth Calhoun, 
natives of Pennsylvania, who came to Trumbull County in a very early day 
and there remained until their death, in 1833 and 1877 respectively. Our sub- 
ject was married, October 3, 1814, to Martha J. Lynn, born in .Pennsylvania 
in 1826, daughter of John Lynn (deceased), Mr. and Mrs. Calhoun have had 
five children: Mary E. (wife of C. G. Fisher), James Gr. , Emily J. (wife of 
J. W. Wilson), Florence E. (wife of Col. Vaughn), and Viola A. (wife of 
Will Hilliar). Our subject was a stock-dealer for some years, but for the 
greater part of his life has been engaged in inventing, and has made improve- 
ments on gates and fencing. 

JOHN CALVIN, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born June 15, 1820, on the 
farm where he and his family now reside in Edinburg Township, this county, 
son of Robert and Margaret Calvin, the former born February 9, 1780, in 
Virginia, latter June 9, 1800, in Pennsylvania. They were married in this 
county and in 1814 settled upon the farm where they lived and died, the father 
May 31, 1870, the mother January 24, 1872. They were the parents of eleven 
children. Our subject was married April 25, 1848, to Margaret Fisher, born 
in this county April 10, 1822, daughter of George and Esther Fisher, natives 
of Pennsylvania, who came to this county with their parents, remaining until 
their death in 1869 and 1866, respectively. Mr. and Mrs. Calvin are the parents 
of ten children: Joshua, Uranie, George, Maryett, Rhodie, Robert, Esther, 
Sarah, Harriet and Ellen. He is a carpenter by trade, and has also been 
engaged in farming. He owns 413 acres of land on which he and his family 
now reside, all of which, with the balance of his estate (except $1,000 inher- 
ited), he has acquired by his own exertions. 

THOMAS P. CHAPMAN, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in Edinburg 
Township, this county, February 5, 1837, son of James and Mary E. 
(Inghram) Chapman, the former born in England January 15, 1800, came to 
America in 1829, the latter born in Chester County, Penn., January 6, 1811. 
They were married March 10, 1831, and during the same year they came to 
Columbiana County, Ohio, and in 1834 to Edinburg, this county, where they 
remained until their death. The father died April 8, 1872, the mother Novem 
ber 9, 1879. Our subject was married November 26, 1863, to Mary M. Knight, 
born in Ellsworth, Mahoning Co., Ohio, August 2, 1844, daughter of James 
and Susan Knight, the former born in Chester County, Penn., May 20, 1812, 
the latter in Ellsworth, Mahoning County, June 18, 1818. Mr. and Mrs. 
Knight first settled in Mahoning County, Ohio, and thence removed to Ashta- 
bula County, where they remained some time; then returned to Mahoning 
County and from there moved to Newton Falls, Trumbull County, in 1856, 
where they lived for several years, when they finally settled in this county in 
April, 1865, and here died, August 28, 1884, and May 25, 1883, respectively. 
To Mr. and Mrs. Chapman have been born two children: James W., born June 
27, 1865, and Lina M, born September '6, 1867. Mr. Chapman has been a 
farmer all his life, and owns forty-eight acres of land where he and his family 
reside. He has been for eighteen years a member of the I. O. O. F. 

JOSEPH E. CHAPMAN, blacksmith, Edinburg, born in Edinburg Town- 



644 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

ship, this county, June 17, 1839; son of James and Elizabeth Chapman; the 
former born in England in 1800, and died April 8, 1871; the latter born in 
Pennsylvania in 1811, and died November 9, 1880. They were married in 
Pennsylvania and moved to Columbiana County, Ohio, thence to this county in 
1837, and remained here until their death. Our subject was thrice married, 
first to Susanna Grate, November 26, 1863 (she was born in this county in 
1845, and died April 3, 1864). His second wife, to whom he was married Feb- 
ruary 28, 1865, was Carrie Patterson (born in Mahoning County, Ohio, Feb- 
ruary 28, 1847, died October 29, 1875), and his present wife, whom he mar- 
ried April 25, 1876, was Nettie Heller, born in Fostoria, Ohio, September 24, 
1848. Mr. Chapman is the father of two children — Mary A. and Embi*a C. — 
and resides at Edinburg, where he owns thirty two acres of land, on which he 
and his family reside. 

WILLIAM A. CLARK, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in Edinburg 
Township, this county, August 26, 1830; son of Russell and Marilla Clark, 
natives of Connecticut, who came to this county, the former about 1814, and 
the latter about 1815, where they were married in 1829, then settled in Edin- 
burg Township, and here remained until his death in 1874. His widow is now 
residing with her son. Our subject was married, January 24, 1856, to Orrel 
Payne, born in Rootstown Township, this county, June 17, 1834, daughter of 
Joyce and Louisa Payne. They were natives of Connecticut, came to this 
county, and here remained until his death, October 13, 1840. His widow is 
still living. Mr. and Mrs. Clark have had four children: Lelia A. (wife of 
Grover Calhoun), Mary G. (wife of Charles Byers), Charles C. and Emma 
L. Our subject, who was reared on a farm, now owns 110 acres of improved 
land in Edinburg Township, where he and his family reside. 

WILLIAM L. COE (deceased) was born in Granville, Mass., February 28 
1809; son of Samuel and Lucy Coe, the former a native of IMassachusetts, the 
latter of Connecticut, and who emigrated to this county during the summer of 
1809, , settling first in Rootstown, afterward in Edinburg, where they both 
died, August 26, 1852, and October 20, 1870, respectively. Our subject was 
married on the first occasion, January 24, 1833, to Nancy Bostwick, born in 
New Milford, Conn., December 24, 1814, and died March 15, 1854, the 
mother of three children: Leroy B., Henry B. and Elbert H. She was a mem- 
ber of the Congregational Church. Mr. Coe was again married April 6, 1855, 
to Adeline F. Brush, born in Atwater, Ohio, November 6, 1819, and the 
widow of John C. Brush, born in Massachusetts in 1814, and died January 
15, 1854. Mr. Coe, who had been engaged in farming, died April 1, 1883. 
He was a member of the Congregational Church, as is also his widow. 

DAVID COPE, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in Carroll County, Ohio, 
June 9, 1837; son of Jacob and Mary Cope, the former a native of Germany 
and the latter of Carroll County, Ohio. They were married in Carroll Coun- 
ty, Ohio, and remained there until 1840, at which time they moved to this 
county and here resided until the father's death, January 7, 1882. The mother 
is still living. Our subject was married August 30, 1860, to Tamer L. Hut- 
son, born in Paris Township, this county, August 22, 1843, daughter of Isaac 
and Elcy Hutson. The former died in 1878, the latter is still living. Mr. and 
Mrs. Cope are the parents of four children, two of whom are now living: 
Leola I., wife of Alfred O. Beardsley, and Walter J. ; the deceased are lona 
E. and Sarah A. Mr. Cope, who was reared on a farm, owns fifty acres where 
he and his family reside. Mrs. Cope is a member of the United Brethren 
Church. 

JOHN COSTLEY, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in Ireland December 
18, 1827; son of Robert and Jane Costley. They immigi'ated to America and 



EDINBURG TOWNSHIP. 645 

resided tirst in Philadelphia, Penn., a few years, wheuce they moved to Edin- 
burg Township, this county, in 1830, where they settled and remained until 
the death of the mother in November, 1853. Robert Costley is now nearly 
eighty-one years of age. Our subject was married, June 7, 1855, to Julia A. 
Booth, born on the farm where she and her husband now reside January 1, 
1828, daughter of Eli and Elizabeth Booth (^both now deceased). They were 
natives of the East. Mr. and Mrs. Costley have had three children : Carrie 
L., Mary E. and Minnie B. Our subject, who has been a farmer all his life, 
owns ninety-six acres of first-class land where he and his family have resided 
nearly thirty years. Mrs. Costley is a member of the Congregational Church. 

B. H. CO WELL was born in Mahoning County, Ohio, September 15, lS37; 
son of William and Ann Cowell, natives of Connecticut and Youugstown, 
Ohio, respectively. They first lived in Mahoning County, Ohio, about six 
years, then removed to this county, remaining some time, thence went to 
Trumbull Coanty for four years, and finally returned to this county, where 
they died March 14, 1878, and July 5, 1870, respectively. Our subject was 
married on the tirst occasion July 4, 1858, to Lyda A. Steffy, born in Penn- 
sylvania November 27, 1836, daughter of Samuel and Mary A. Steffy, both 
now residing in Mahoning County, Ohio, and to this union were born two 
children: Homer and Samuel. Mrs. Cowell died February 2, 1864; she was 
a member of the Disciples Church. Our subject then married, July 17, 1864, 
Ann Thomas, born in Wales, January 14, 1840, daughter of Thomas and Rachel 
Thomas, who died in Portage County, Ohio. By this union were born seven 
children: Arthur, Hattie I, Willie T., Ida M., Ira M., Anna E. and Mary E. 
Mr. Cowell, who has been a farmer all his life, owns 157 acres of good land. 
He and his wife are members of the Disciples Church. 

DEXTER D. DAVIS, merchant, Edinburg, was born September 23, 1844, 
in Edinbarg, Portage Co., Ohio, in the house where he and his family reside 
at present, son of William D. and Rhoda Davis, the former a native of Penn- 
sylvania, the latter of Massachusetts, born April 26, 1801, and May 9, 1803, 
respectively. They married in Trumbull County, Ohio, where they remained 
for several years, and then moved to Edinburg Township, this county, where 
they spent their remaining days. The father died August 17, 1878, and the 
mother resides with our subject. Dexter D. Davis was married October 1,1873, 
to Frank E. Turner, born in Columbiana County, Ohio, December 6, 1847, 
daughter of William and Ann Turner, former of whom was born in Philadel- 
phia February 8, 1811, married the first time to Eliza Runner, and after her 
death to Ann Tolerton, who was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, April 13, 
1814. They tirst located in Columbiana County and then removed to this 
county, where they remained until his death, August 19, 1879; his widow still 
survives. Mr. and Mrs. Davis have had three children: W. Raymond, born 
June '6, 1877; Charles D., born November 29,J88], and Mary, born May 31, 
1883. Our subject engaged in farming seven years, then was in miscellaneous 
businesses in different parts of the United States for several years. Returning 
to Edinburg he farmed for several years more, and in 1881 went into mercan- 
tile business and has so continued ever since. He owns tifty acres of land 
where he and his family reside, and has met with fair success through life. 

JULirS H. DAY, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in Deerfield Town- 
ship, this county, May 2, 1813, son of Munn and Lucy Day, from_ Granville, 
Mass., the former born September 9, 1783, the latter March 16, 1/87. They 
were married January 2, 1804, and settled in Deerfield Township, this county, 
remaining until their death, the father dying February 26, 1863, the mother 
Septembei- 12, 1868. Our subject was married the first time February 25, 



64(3 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

1836, to Nancy Brisbine, born in Columbiana County, Ohio, March 27, 1814, 
daughter of Samuel and Nancy Brisbine, both deceased. Mrs. Day died Feb- 
ruary 23, 1868. She was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Our 
subject was married the second time July 14, 1869, to Sarah R. Bump, born 
in Mantua, Ohio, February 2, 1823, daughter of Philip and Patience Bump, 
natives of New England, and who came to this county about 1822, where 
they remained until their death. The father died January 8, 1864; the mother 
June 26, 1875. Mr. Day is the father of three children: Harrison L. ; Lucy 
A., wife of Elmore Hoskin, and Frances L.,wife of Homer Judd. Our sub- 
ject is a wagon-maker by trade but has been engaged in farming for about 
thirty years and owns ninety-eight acres of land. He filled the office of Treas- 
urer of the township ten years. He and his wife are members of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church. 

FRANKLIN ELDREDGE (deceased) was born in Cleveland, Ohio, March 
27, 1841, son of Hezekiah and Eunice Eldredge, deceased. Our subject came 
to Edinburg, this county, when quite young, and remained the greater part of 
his life. He was married, July 4, 1865, to Susan Carr, bornon the farm where 
she and her family reside, daughter of Thomas and Orpha Cai'r, natives of 
Pennsylvania, who settled in Edinburg, this county, about 1834, and remained 
until their death, former dying in 1857, latter August 31, 1883. To Mr. and 
Mrs. Eldredge were born four children: Lewellyn O., born March 13, 1867; 
Albert C, born June 13, 1868; Emmet F., born June 22, 1870, and Mary F., 
born January 7, 1872. Our subject, who had been a farmer all his life, died 
May 24, 1872. He was a F. & A. M. He enlisted in Company G, Seventh 
Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving for nearly three years during the war of the 
Rebellion. After leaving the army he served for two years as an engineer. 
His widow is a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

SAMUEL ELLIOTT, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in Edinburg 
Township, this county, May 7, 1832; son of Mulfred B. and Betsey E. Elliott, 
the former born in New York State April 23, 1801, the latter in Pennsylvania 
March 11, 1801. They were married in Charlestown, this county, in 1826, 
and settled in Edinburg Township, where they remained until their death. 
The mother died January 28, 1870, the father June 17, 1877, at Angola, Ind. 
His remains, however, were returned to this county by his son and interred in 
the family cemetery (beside those of his deceased wife) on the old home farm. 
Our subject was married, first time, February 16, 1856, to Elsie Hutson, born 
in this county in 1839, and died December 17, 1867, daughter of Isaac and 
Elsie Hutson, the latter now living. By this union there were two children: 
Samuel S. and Laura E., wife of Henry Luke. Mr. Elliott was again mar- 
ried, November 8, 1868, on this occasion to Myra P. Bryan, born in Ashland 
County, Ohio, December 10, 1832, daughter of Shadrach and Persis Bryan, 
the former born September 14, 1804, the latter born November 20, 1809, died 
Januaiy 15, 1877. Our subject is a stone-cutter by trade, an occupation he 
followed for a few years when he became foreman, and thus continued for 
about thirteen years, since which time his son has taken his place, and he has 
settled on his farm consisting of 320 acres of tine land. Mr. Elliott is a F. 
& A. M. Mrs. Elliott is an adherent of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

JOSEPH H. FEATHERBY, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in Edin- 
burg Township, this county, June 14, 1839, son of Joseph and Mary Feath- 
erby, natives of Pennsylvania, both born in 1798. They moved first to Colum- 
biana County, Ohio, thence to this county, and here remained until their 
death. She died in 1847, and Joseph Featherby then married Sabre Wilks, 
sister to his first wife. He died in 1874, and his widow in 1883. Our subject 



EDINBURG TOWNSHIP. 647 

married, April 25, 1866, Laura Chapman, born in Edinburg Township, this 
county, June 13, 1843, daughter of James and Mary E. Chapman, both 
deceased, and to this union have been born four children, three of whom are 
now living: Nettie, Edith and Grace. The deceased was an infant. Our sub- 
ject, who has been a farmer all his life, owns seventy-six acres of land. He 
has filled the ofifice of Trustee of his township. Mrs. Featherby died July 26, 
1876. 

JEREMIAH FIFER, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in Columbiana 
County, Ohio, June 10, 1830, son of John and Polly Fifer, natives of Virginia 
and Ohio respectively, and who were married in Columbiana County, Ohio, 
August 15, 1829, where they remained until 1849, when they moved to and 
resided in this county, where the father died August 15, 1877. Our subject 
was twice married, on first occasion, November 25, 1852, to Anna Wilks, born 
in Portage County, Ohio, in 1834, daughter of John and Anna Wilks, the 
former now living, and the latter deceased. Mrs. Fifer died in 1860, and our 
subject then married Eliza Baight, June 20, 1861. She was born in Portage 
County, Ohio, July 4, 1838, daughter of David and Mary Baight, latter of 
whom died September 1, 1879. Our subject is the father of six children, 
three now living: Cynthia L., wife of Michael Adolph; Cyrus J. W., and 
Addison. The deceased are Angeline A.; Margaret, born October 28, 1863, 
died March 24, 1866, and an infant. Our subject, who is a farmer by occupa- 
tion, owns eighty acres of improved land, where he and his family reside. 

ELIHU FISH, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in Albany County, N, 
Y. , September 30, 1822, son of Silas and Susana Fish, the former born in 
Rhode Island, October 5, 1751, the latter in Massachusetts in 1792. They 
were married in New York, whence they removed to this county in 1834, and 
here remained until their death, March 8, 1842, and December 13, 1874, respect- 
ively. Our subject married. May 11, 1845, Eliza J. Kennedy, born in Hub- 
bard Township, Trumbull Co., Ohio, February 12, 1829, daughter of David 
and Martha Kennedy, who were married in Mahoning County, Ohio, and 
whence they removed to this county, where they remained several years, then 
moved to Pennsylvania, where they both died, former in 1860, latter in 1854. 
To Mr. and Mrs. Fish have been born four children, two of whom are now liv- 
ing: Celia A., wife of T. F. Hughes, of California, and Charles O., married 
to Hortense J. Goss. The deceased are Franklin and an infant. Mr. Fish 
settled on his present farm consisting of 105 acres in 1834, and has remained 
here ever since. He has filled the offices of Justice of the Peace !and Trustee 
of this township. 

SAMUEL M. FOLEY, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in Philadelphia, 
Penn., December 4, 1830, son of John and Matilda Foley, former born in 
Wurtemberg, Germany, immigrating to Philadelphia when ten years of age, 
latter born in Delaware. They were married in Philadelphia and there lived 
for a great many years. In 1833 they moved to Edinburg Township, this 
county, and remained until their death, the father dying July 31, 1869, the 
mother in April, 1870. April 15, 1850, Samuel M. Foley, then twenty years 
of age, left Edinburg for California, and returned March 24, 1855, and April 
15, 1856, he went to Iowa by land with a wagon and span of four-year-old 
colts, returning following December to Edinburg, this county, where he 
has remained ever since. Our subject was married, April 18, 1861, to Naomi 
Haines, born in Ohio March 27, 1838, daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth 
Haines, both of whom died in Mahoning County, Ohio, and to this union have 
been born five children: Thomas R., Ellen G., Mary J., Hattie E. and Ida M. 
Thomas R. went to Tower City, Dak., March 27, 1882, and died at Fargo, 



648 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Dak., February 7, 1885. Our subject, who has engaged in farming most of 
his life, owns ninety-three acres of good farm land, where he and his family 
reside. 

ANDREW J. FEAZIER, farmer, P. O. New Milford, was born in Trum- 
bull County, Ohio, April 11, 1836; son of Lewis and Catharine Frazier, 
natives of Pennsylvania, the former born in Philadelphia in 1799, and the 
latter in Cumberland County in 1801. They were married in Philadelphia, 
thence moved to Trumbull County, Ohio. After a brief residence there they 
returned to Mercer County, Penn. , and there remained until their death, in 
1845 and 1847, respectively. Ojir subject was married. May 12, 1864, to 
Catharine Wisell, born in Trumbull County, Ohio, January 4, 1834, daughter 
of Daniel and Susan Wisell, also natives of Pennsylvania, but who came to 
Trumbull County, Ohio, in 1833 and remained there until their death; the 
mother died in 1844, the father in 1866. To Mr. and Mrs. Frazier have been 
born five children: Hattie J., born August 5, 1865; Carrie T., born September 
25, 1866; Charles J., born December 7, 1868; Harry P., born October 1, 1870, 
and Riley H. , born February 27, 1873. Our subject owns 153 acres of im- 
proved land where he and his family reside. He was in the late war of the 
Rebellion, serving his country nearly three years, and left a record as a 
faithful soldier. Mrs. Frazier and daughters are members of the United 
Brethren Church. 

MILES O. GANO, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in Paris Township, 
Portage Co., Ohio, August 13, 1838, son of Daniel and Adaline Gano, natives 
of Ohio, who married in this county, first settling in Paris Township, where 
they lived until the death of the latter, after which Daniel Gano was married 
to Lorain Streeter, a native of Ohio, and then resided in Paris Township until 
his death in 1865; his widow is residing with her children. Our subject was 
married, August 12, 1862, to Emily Bliss, born in Windham Township, this 
county, in 1829, daughter of Worcester and Harriet Bliss, both now deceased. 
To Mr. and Mrs. Gano have been born three children: Clayton B. , Abbie L. 
and Julia M. Our subject is a f armei-, and owns 100 acres of good land where 
he and his family reside. During the war of the Rebellion he enlisted in 
1862, in Company D, One Hundred and Fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and 
was discharged on account of disability in 1863. He and his wife are mem- 
bers of the Congregational Church. 

JOHN R. GIDDINGS, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in Paris Town- 
ship, this county, August 14, 1847, son of Thomas and Sarah Giddings, 
former born in Wales, in 1798, latter in England, in 1802. They were mar- 
ried in this county in 1845, and settled in Paris Township, where they 
remained until the death of Mrs. Giddings, June 10, 1877. Thomas Gid- 
dings still resides in Edinburg Township, this county. Our subject was mar- 
ried, October 2, 1872, to Julia E. Gano, born in Paris Township, this county, 
January 23, 1853, a daughter of Daniel (who died July 10, 1864) and Lorain 
Gano. Mr. and Mrs. Giddings are the parents of two children: Burton D. 
and Lyle C. Our subject is a carpenter by trade, but is now engaged in 
farming. He owns 109 acres of good land. He is a F. & A. M. ; is one of 
the Justices of the Peace of the township in which he lives. He and his wife 
are members of the Disciples Church. 

ALFRED R. GOSS, merchant, Edinburg, born in Fall River, Mass., 
August 30, 1834, son of Daniel and Margaret Goss, the former a native of 
New Hampshire, the latter of Scotland. They were married at Fall River, 
Mass., and moved to Catskill, N. Y., in 1837, thence to Cincinnati in 1845, 
where they remained for eleven years, then moved to Edinburg, where the 



EDINBURG TOWNSHIP. 649 

mother died in 1877; the father died in Philadelphia, in 1873. Our subject 
was married, October 17, 1860, to Martha C. Carr, born in Edinburg, Ohio, 
November 26, 1837, daughter of Rev. Thomas and Orpha Carr, natives of 
Pennsylvania, who settled in Edinburg about 1834, and remained until their 
death. The former died in 1857, the latter August 31, 1883. To Mr. and Mrs. 
Goss have been born four children: Thomas C. , born April 22, 1862; 
Charles A., born December 10, 1863; Maggie F., born September 9, 1866, 
and Hatie, born November 21, 1871. Our subject is a hatter by trade, and 
has also been engaged in farming, but has been for twenty-two years mer- 
chandising in Edinburg, Ohio, under the firm name of Goss Bros. Mrs. 
Goss is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

JACOB GRENAMYER, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, born in Trumbull 
County, Ohio, November 18, 1835, son of Jacob and Elizabeth Grenamyer, 
both natives of Pennsylvania. They were married in Columbiana County, 
Ohio, where they first settled; thence they moved to Trumbull County, and there 
remained until their death, she dying in 1868, and he June 16, 1877. Our 
subject was married, May 1, 1858, to Maria A. Kump, born in Trumbull 
County, Ohio, March 13, 1838, daughter of Daniel and Mary Kump, natives of 
Pennsylvania, who immigrated to Trumbull Comity, Ohio, and are both living. 
Mr. and Mrs. Grenamyer have had two children: Mary A., born August 7, 
1860, and Edward O., born March 24, 1862. Mrs. Grenamyer died January 
14, 1883. She was a loving wife and kind mother; a consistent member of 
the Congregational Church, of which the rest of the family are also members. 
Ml". Grenamyer, who is a farmer, owns nice property in Edinburg Township. 
He has been a member of the I. O. O. F. for over twenty- five years. The 
family moved to Edinburg in March, 1880. 

JOSEPH S. GUNDER, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in Mahoning 
County, Ohio, May 23, 1843, son of John and Susan Gunder, natives of Penn- 
sylvania, who moved to Columbiana County, Ohio, and afterward to Mahoning 
County, where they remained until the death of the mother in 1859. The father 
then made his home with his children and died in Lancaster County, Neb., in 
1878. Our subject was married, April 19, 1866, to Maria N. Hutson, born in 
Edinburg Township, this county, December 10, 1847, daughter of Calvin and 
Olive Hutson. whose sketch appears in this history. Mr. and Mrs. Gunder are 
the parents of three children: Josie E., born October 21, 1867; Frank E., 
born February 12, 1870, and Roy N., born September 18, 1883. Our subject 
owns a nice property, where he and his family reside. He enlisted during 
the war of the Rebellion, in Company H, Twenty-sixth Regiment Indiana 
Volunteer Infantry, and served three years. He and his wife are members 
of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

HEZEKIAH HAWN, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in Columbiana 
County, Ohio, March 14, 1827, son of Isaac and Catharine Hawn, natives of 
Maryland, who x-emoved to Columbiana County, Ohio, about 1812, where they 
remained until their death, in 1864 and 1866 respectively. Hezekiah Hawn 
came to Edinburg, this county, about 1839, and was married, September 3, 
1856, to Rebecca Brigden, born on the farm where our subject now resides 
October 12, 1829, daughter of Thomas and Amelia Brigden, natives of Con- 
necticut, who came to Edinburg, this county, January 1, 1827, remaining until 
the mother's death, August 2, 1878. The father resides on the old home farm 
with his son-in-law. Mr. and Mrs. Hawn have had three children: Clara E., 
(wife of C. A. Meyers), Wilfred H. and Jennie A. Our subject is a car- 
riage-maker by trade, now engaged in farming, and owns ninety- eight acres of 
land. He has filled the office of Trustee and Treasurer of his township. Mrs. 
Hawn is a member of the Congregational Church. 



650 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

STEPHEN HUBBARD, minister, P. O. New Milford, was born in 
Dutchess County, N. Y., February 15, 1800; son of Ephraim and Mary Hub- 
bard, natives of Connecticut and New York State respectively. They were 
married in New York, where their children were born, and from whence they 
moved to Portage County, Ohio, about 1803, settling in Deerfield Township, 
where they remained until their death. Our subject was married the Urst 
time, June 20, 1819, to Diantha Mills, born in Nelson, this county, October 
14, 1801, died September 18, 1844. Our subject subsequently married 
Maria Crail, born in Trumbull County, Ohio, October 10, 1820. Mr. Hubbard 
and first wife were the parents of nine children, six now living: Sophronia, 
Vestie, Harriet, Wesley, Sidney and Orilla. The deceased are Prosser, Cyn- 
thia and Adelia. Our subject was engaged in the ministry for a great many 
years, but is now retired. He owns forty acres of land, on which he and his 
family reside. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, to which his deceased wife also belonged. 

CALVIN HUTSON, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in Paris Township, 
Portage County, Ohio, June 25, 1822; son of Kichard R. and Nancy A. Hutson, 
natives of Ohio, who were married in Portage County, and first settled in 
Paris Township, remaining there till 3829, at which time they moved toEdin- 
burg Township and here died, the former November 17, 1851, and the latter 
March 24, 1875. Our subject was married September 4, 1845, to Olive L. 
Churchill, born in Randolph Township, Portage County, February 8, 1824, 
daughter of Stephen M. and Maria Churchill, natives of Connecticut, born 
December 4, 1796, and August 8, 1803, respectively. Mr. and Mrs. Churchill 
moved from Connecticut to Randolph Township, Portage County, and there 
remained until his death in 1879. His widow is still living. Mr. and Mrs. 
Hutson are the parents of two children: Nancy M., wife of Joseph S. Gunder, 
and Calvin M. Our subject, who has been a farmer all his life, owns 112 
acres of improved land where he and his family reside. He is a member of 
the Methodist Episcopal Church, and his wife of the Disciples Church. He 
has filled the offices of Assessor and Trustee of his township. 

EDWARD JONES, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in Wales, May 7, 
1840; son of Watkin and Catharine Jones, natives of that country, born in 
1799 and 1797 respectively, and who emigrated to this county in 1841, where 
they remained until their death. Mrs. Jones died in 1849, and Watkin Jones 
then married Mary Jones, who is still living. He died in 1874. Our subject 
was married, February 1, 1863, to Mary Thomas, born in Wales October 10, 
1838, daughter of Thomas and Rachel Thomas, both now deceased. Mr. and 
Mrs. Jones have had born to them five children: Watkin T., Daniel L., Sarah 
A., Catharine E. and Albert E. Our subject, who has been a farmer all his 
life, owns 173 acres of improved land. Mrs. Jones is a member of the Dis- 
ciples Church. 

HENRY A. MARSH, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, born in Vermont, June 8, 
1824; son of Henry R. and Harriet (Stow) Marsh, both natives of the East, 
former born in Vermont in 1798, latter in Massachusetts in 1796. They were 
married in Vermont in 1822, and there resided until the father's death in 1827. 
His widow, accompanied by her family, came to Trumbull County, Ohio, soon 
after, thence to this county, where she was married to Robei't Earl. He dying 
in 1855, the widow next married Peter Bissel, who died September, 1872, his 
widow surviving him until February 13, 1882, when she died. Our subject 
was married, the first time, September 24, 1846, to Eliza M. Hillman, and 
after her death, he married October 4, 1849, Thalia E. Strong, who was born 
on the farm where our subject now resides, April 3, 1825, daughter of Ethel 




& 




EDINBURG TOWNSHIP. 653 

and Elizabeth (Bosworth) Strong, both born in the year 1801, the former in 
Connecticut, the latter in Massachusetts. Thej came to this county in about 
1820, where the mother died in 1860, and after her death Mr. Strong married 
Mary Hale, but dying in 1865 left her a widow. Our subject and wife are the 
parents of one child, Stellie E., wife of William Kilpatrick. They have an 
adopted daughter — Edith A. Carlton. Our subject is an artist by profession, 
but for the past twenty years has engaged iu farming and owns thirty acres 
upon which he and liis family reside. He has served as Township Clerk for 
eight years. He and his wife are members of the Congregational Church. 

EDWIN C. MYERS, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in Columbiana 
County, Ohio, April 21, 1834; son of William and Alice Myers, natives of 
Chester County, Penn. They lived some time in Columbiana County, Ohio, 
and from there moved to Edinburg, this county, in December, 1834, and here 
remained until their death. William Myers died in 1859 and Alice Myers in 
1857. Our subject was married, May 21, 1857, to Anna M. Stretch, born in 
Salem, Ohio, November 25, 1840, daughter of Abiner and Ann Stretch, who 
are both now deceased. To our subject and wife were born five children: 
Willis E., born July 8, 1863; Emmet E., born August 11, 1867; Friend E., 
born Juue 27, 1870; TelulaE., born March 2, 1874, and Clyde P., born August 
7, 1877. Our subject, who has been engaged in farming all his life, now owns 
forty acres of good land, where he and his family reside. Mr. Myers took 
part in the late war of the Rebellion as a member of Company F, Forty-second 
Ohio Volunteer Infantry, commanded by Col. James A. Garheld, enlisting in 
the fall of 1861 and remaining in the service a little over one year. He was 
discharged at Ashland, Boyd Co., Ky., for disability, and gave his discharge 
paper to Maj. H. H. Willard, who lost it. Mr. Myers then obtained a second 
one at Cumberland Gap, and when he returned to his regiment he was ordered 
to Columbus for examination, and there received his final discharge. Mrs. 
Myers died of consumption January 15, 1880. She was a consistent member 
of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

ABRAHAM S. PLUMMER, retired farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born 
in Barree Township, Huntingdon Co., Penn., May 21, 1812; son of John and 
Sarah Pluramer, natives of Maryland (the former was born January 11, 1785, 
the latter September 15, 1775), and who were married in Pennsylvania August 
15, 1809, and came to this county in 1832, where they remained until their 
death, the father dying August 16, 1856, the mother August 20, 1860. Our 
subject was married, May 14, 1839, to Amy Coy, born in Pennsylvania, April 
29, 1819, daughter of James and Nancy Coy, who were natives of Pennsylva- 
nia, where they remained until their death, he dying April 27, 1876, and his 
wife August 9, 1868. Mr. and Mrs. Plummer had six children, four now liv- 
ing: Sarah C, wife of Martin V, Dole; John W. C. ; Lewis J. and Eugene W. 
Franklin M. and Benson are deceased. Our subject was reared on a farm and 
has all his life followed agricultural pursuits. He owns 155 acres of improved 
land where he and his family reside. Mrs. Plummer is a member of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. Our subject and wife are among the oldest set- 
tlers of the township, in which they have lived a gi'eat many years. 

WILIiIAM RANSAW (deceased) was born in 1802 in Germany; son of 
Fred Ransaw. He emigrated to America, settling in this county, in 1840, and 
was married in Ravenna Township the same year, to Elizabeth Schriver, also 
a native of Germany, where she was born in 1822, and from where she emi- 
grated to America the same year her husband arrived. To this union were 
born seven children, five of whom are now living: William H., Lewis, Fan- 
nie, Fred and Henry C. The deceased are George and Mary. Our subject 



654 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : 

was a tanner by trade, but after arriving in this county engaged in farming, 
which occupation he followed until his death, in February, 1866. He at that 
time owned fifty-two acres of good land on which his widow now resides. He 
was universally respected, an honest, upright citizen, true to his obligations 
and a man who contributed largely to the development of this county. 

SMITH SANFORD, farmer and Postmaster, Edinburg, was born in Litch- 
field County, Conn., January 12, 1830; son of Nathan and Aner Sanford, 
natives of Connecticut, who removed to Medina County, Ohio, in 1831, and 
there remained until Mrs. Sanford's death in 1835. Nathan Sanford then 
married, in 1836, Lorenda Campbell, of New York State, and moved to this 
county, first settling in Rootstown, afterward in Edinburg Township, where 
this wife died in 1855. Nathan Sanford then married, for his third wife, Julia 
Hayden, of Connecticut, who died in 1865. He died in 1868. On November 
27, 1855, our subject married Louisa L. Davis, born in Edinburg, Ohio, 
February 19, 1832, daughter of William D. and Rhoda Davis, former of whom 
was born in Pennsylvania, April 26, 1801, latter in Massachusetts, May 9, 
1803. They first settled in Trumbull County, Ohio, and from there moved to 
Edinburg, this county, here remaining until his death, August 17, 1878; his 
widow resides with her son. To Mr. and Mrs. Smith Sanford have been born 
two children: Frank E., born October 10, 1858, and Rolla M., born October 22, 
1869. Our subject, who^is a farmer, owns 155 acres of land in Edinburg 
Township. He filled the office of County Commissioner six years, also Justice 
of the Peace and Trustee of his township. He and his wife are members of 
the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

HENRY SHEWELL (deceased) was born in Deertield Township, this 
county, July 17, 1801; son of Rev. Henry and Mercy Shewell, natives of New 
Jersey, who came to this county in 1802 and here remained until their death. 
Our subject was married, March 18, 1832, to Irena Chapman, born in Roots- 
town Township, this county, July 5, 1811, daughter of Nathan and Mary 
Chapman, natives of the East, who located in this county, former in about 
1804-05, latter in 1806, and who were married during the latter year, settling 
in Rootstown, where they remained until Mr. Chapman's death. To our sub- 
ject and wife was born September 18, 1839, one child — Eliza M., now the 
widow of Willis E. Bottsford and the mother of two children: Edward H. and 
Harry S. Our subject died at Baxter Springs, Kan., October 12, 1867, leav- 
ing his wife and one child, who thereupon returned to Ohio. 

ALBERT G. SHEWELL, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in Ran- 
dolph Township, this county, August 22, 1831, son of William and Lydia 
(Baldwin) Shewell, former born in Waynesburg, Greene Co., Penn., February 
5, 1799, and the latter born in Connecticut October 17, 1799, both of English 
descent. They were married December 14, 1820, in Portage County, where 
they remained until their death. The father died in Rootstown, this county, 
April 13, 1880; the mother died in Rootstown, September 4, 1871. Our sub- 
ject was married January 21, 1851, to Mary E. Chapman, born in Columbiana 
County, Ohio, January 6, 1832, daughter of James and Mary E. Chapman, 
deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Shewell have had four children: Idazella J., wife 
of James W. Dundon; Franchette D. , who was married to Ida Gilbert; Judd 
B. , married to Estella Stephenson, and Ulysses G. Mr. Shewell, who has been 
a farmer all his life, owns 170 acres of land where he and his family reside. 
He has filled several offices of trust in his township. 

HENRY H. SPIERS, physician, Edinburgh, was born in Atwater Town- 
ship, this county, September 4, 1849, son of- William and Elizabeth A. Spiers, 
natives of England, who married in the old country, removing to Atwater 



EDINBURG TOWNSHIP. 65^ 

Township, this county, about 1837, where they remained until his death iiL 
18S0; his widow resides on the old homestead. Our subject was married Octo- 
ber 5, 1879, to Alia N. Hinman, born in Edinburg, this county. May 2, 1856, 
daughter of Robinson L. and Mary Hinman, who live in Edinburg, thie 
county. The Doctor and wife are the parents of one child — Frank H. S., born 
October 2, 1881. Our subject finished his medical course in the Ohio MedicaJ' 
College at Ci-ncinnati in 1877, and since that time has been practicing his pro- 
fession in Edinburg, this county, where he is meeting with good success. 
He has tilled the office of Treasurer of his township for the last five years. 

EMANUEL STEEL, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in Pennsylvania, 
January 9, 1812, son of John and Sarah Steel, who moved to Columbiana 
County, Ohio, thence to this county, where they remained all their lives. The 
father died in 1828, and the mother in 1846. Our subject was married April 
5, 1845, to Elizabeth Simpson, born in Columbiana County, Ohio, May 15., 
1826, daughter of James and Margaret Simpson, both now deceased, the for- 
mer of whom was a native of Ireland, the latter of the East, and who came .te 
Columbiana County, Ohio, here remaining until their death. Mr. and Mrs. 
Steel have six children: Clarissa, wife of James Lewis; Juliet, wife of Henry 
Heighton; Mary, wife of William Kibbler; Leora, wife of Wallace David: 
Caleb, married to Emma McQuinn. and William A. Our subject has been g 
farmer all his life, and owns 122 acres of improved land where he and hie 
family reside. He and his wife are members of the Disciples Chtirch. 

HUGH STEWART, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in Ireland it 
1822, son of John and Jane Stewart, who died in the old country. He was 
married March 23, 1854, to Sarah Bingham, born in Ireland December 27^ 
1828, daughter of James and Jane Bingham, also deceased, and the week after 
their marriage they set sail for America, arriving April 1, 1859, in this county., 
where they have resided ever since. Mr. and Mrs. Stewart have bad fiveehil- 
dren: William J., born July 31. 1855; James B., born March 25, 1857; Alex- 
ander T. , born November 27, 1859; Robert H., born September 1, 1861, and 
Samuel A., born December 26, 1865. Mr. Stewart is a carpenter by trade, but 
has engaged in farming for several years, and owns 203 acres of land. He 
and his wife are members of the Congregational Church. 

GEORGE STUMP. Jr., farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in Miltoa, 
Mahoning Co., Ohio, July 30, 1844, son of George and Eliza Stump, bott 
natives of Ohio, and who first settled in Mahoning County, Ohio, where Mr«. 
Stump died in 1846. After her death our subject's father married Sallie 
Rumel, and they moved to this county in 1854, remaining here until herdeatb 
in 1874. Mr. Stump then married (for third time), November 17, 1877, Mrs, 
E. P. Musser. They are both living and reside in Edinburg. Our subject 
was twice married, on first occasion August 4, 1869, to Anna Owens, born in 
Wales, January 6, 1846, daughter of David and Ann Owens, natives of W^alea. 
She died August 31, 1878. To this union were born three children: Albert 
G., Lyda M. and Viola E. Mr. Stiimp then married, September 18, 1879, 
Hannah D. Hutson, widow of Eli Hutson, who was born January 15, 1829., 
and died February 26, 1874. She was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, 
October 30, 1835, daughter of Edward and Mary Fitz Randolph, and is tbe 
mother of one child — Ori B. Hutson— by her first marriage. Edward Fitz 
Randolph, son of James and Elizabeth Fitz Randolph, and father of Mra, 
Stump, was born August 10, 1788, near Perth Amboy, N. J.; his wife, Mary- 
Bailey, daughter of Eli and Ruth Bailey, was born June 3, 1794, in Greene 
County, Penn. They were married, October 15, 1812, by her brother, Joab 
Bailey, in Greene County, Penn. Edward Fitz Randolph died at East West- 



656 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : 

ville, Mahoning Co., Ohio. March 19, 1872. Mary (Bailey) Fitz Randolph died 
at same place February 11, 1879. Our subject has been engaged in farming 
all his life. During the war of the Rebellion he enlisted, September 1, 1862, 
in Company D, One Hundred and Twenty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and 
was mustered out May 25, 1865, at Louisville, Ivy. He participated in seven- 
teen battles, the principal of which were Chickamauga, Mission Ridge, Kene- 
saw Mountain, Peach Tree Creek, Atlanta and Nashville. Himself and wife 
are members of the Disciples Church. 

R. D. TROWBRIDGE, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in Palmyra. 
Ohio, May 31, 1831, son of Carlos D. and Mary Trowbridge, the former born in 
Connecticut, December 25, 1804, and died July 24:, 1833; the latter born in 
Pennsylvania, August 27, 1800, died October 11, 1873. They were married in 
this county, February 26, 1823, and here settled and remained during their 
lives. Our subject was married, December 19, 1852, to Louisa L. Gilbert, 
born in Palmyra, this county, August 24, 1832, daughter of George S. and 
Electa M. Gilbert, natives of Palmyra, Ohio, and Hartford, Conn., respect- 
ively, the former born November 18, 1807, and the latter in 1810. They were 
married in this county, where they settled and remained until their death. 
Mr. and Mrs. Trowbridge are the parents of six children, four of whom are 
now living: S. Addison, Mary E., Olive E. and Alta M. The deceased are 
Frank D. and an infant. Our subject is owner of 240 acres of land where he 
and his family reside. He has also been engaged in the sale of agricultural 
implements. 

WILLIAM I. TUFFING, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in London, 
England, August 11, 1839, son of Isaac J. and Mary A. Tutfing, natives of 
that country, where the former was born in 1798 and the latter in 1803. They 
immigrated to America and settled in this county in 1854, and have remained 
here ever since. Our subject was married, November 30, 1865, to Lizzie 
Forsyth, born in Pennsylvania, June 9, 1835, daughter of Ebenezer and Han- 
nah Forsyth, natives of Scotland and of England respectively, and who came to 
this county in 1835, and here remained until their death. Mr. and Mrs. Tuffing 
have had two children: Arthur E. and Olive M. Our subject, who has been 
a farmer all his life, owns ninety acres of good farming land. He has filled 
the office of Assessor of his township. He and his wife are members of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. 

LAFAYETTE TUTTLE, aa early pioneer of the town of Edinburg, 
was born in Massachusetts in 1797, the third son of John Tuttle by first 
wife. He came with his parents to Palmyra, Portage Co., Ohio, when 
but seven years old. He was married in after years to Rebecca White, 
of Pennsylvania, and settled in the northeast corner of Edinburg. He 
was a blacksmith by trade, and being raised in Ohio when it was a dense 
forest, commenced life with an iron will to overcome all the obstacles 
which an early pioneer had to endure. The first district school in that 
quarter of the town was taught by a Miss Emla Wilcok, of Deerfield, in 
the year 1826, the school being held in a small blacksmith shop owned by 
Lafayette Tuttle. He died at the age of fifty- two years, being then the owner 
of a large farm of about 300 acres of land, on which he had erected a saw- 
mill and grist-mill on the banks of a stream known as Silver Creek. Mr. and 
Mrs. Lafayette Tuttle were both members of the Methodist Church. They 
reared a family of nine children, six boys and three girls, most of whom have 
gone West to partake of joys and sorrows of pioneer life. Hiram Tuttle is 
now the only one of the family residing in Edinburg Township, born Novem 
ber 3, 1832. He was married September 22, 1854, to N. Margaret McCombs, 



EDINBURG TOWNSHIP. 657 

born in Pennsylvania in 1835, daughter of John and Nancy McCombs, who 
settled in this county in a very early day and remained until the father's death. 
His widow resides with her son-in-law. Mr. and Mrs. Tattle have two children: 
Ellen A., wife of Nathan I. Thompson, and Arthur H. Mr. Tuttle is a car- 
penter and joiner by trade, but has engaged in farming for several years and 
owns eighty acres of land where he and his family reside. He is a member of the 
I. O. O. F. Himself and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. 

JOHN TUTTLE, of Palmyra, Portage County, the father of Lafayette 
Tuttle, was born at Lebanon, Conn., in 1762, and lived in Sunderland, Mass., 
where a family of four sons and four daughters were born, all of whom lived 
to an advanced age, except the eldest boy, John, who met his death through 
inhaling well-damp while digging a well. Our subject served ns a soldier 
under Gen. Randolph during the Revolutionary war. In the year 1804, when 
he moved to Palmyra, Portage Co., Ohio, with his family, he settled about one 
mile south of the township center. After this his wife died, and by a second 
marriage he had a family of live boys and two girls. He died October 19, 
1829, aged sixty-six years. 

WILLIAM J. WILLSEY, farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in Fulton, 
Schoharie Co., N. Y., October 3, 1823; son of Henry T. and Orpha Willsey, 
natives of New York, who came to this county in 1840, thence removing to Ash- 
tabula County in 1853, whei-e they remained until the father's death, January 6, 
1854. The mother subsequently married William Johnson and died March 28, 
1884, at the residence of her son, A. V. Willsey, Atwater, this county. Our 
subject was married October 6, 1853, to Samantha L. Clover, born in Deerfield 
Township, this county, July 3, 1833, daughter of Nathan and Hannah Clover, 
natives of Pennsylvania, who moved to this county in 1827 and here remained 
until their death. Mr. Clover died in 1872, and his widow in 1877. Mr. and 
Mrs. Willsey are the parents of one child — Cecelia L. A., born September 30, 
1854, wife of Dix Gilbert. Our subject has been a teacher and farmer; owns 
122^ acres of land; is a Justice of tlae Peace and has filled most of the town- 
ship offices. Mrs. Willsey is a member of the Disciples Church. 

HENRY T. WILLSON. farmer, P. O. Edinburgh, was born in the State of 
New York, November 22, 1820; son of David and Rebecca Willson, former a 
native of Coxsackie, N. Y., born in 1790, latter a native of New York. They 
were married in New York and came to this county in 1833, settling and 
remaining here until their death. Our subject was married the first time, in 
1842, to Martha Hancock, born in Michigan in 1826, died in 1865. After her 
death Mr. Willson married, August 20, 1867, Mary Bartly, born in 1832 in 
Edinburg, this county. Our subject is the father of seven children, five of 
whom are now living: Ellen, Omar O., John T., George E. and Alice. Mr. 
Willson is a carpenter by trade, but of late years has been engaged in farm- 
ing. He owns eighty-one acres of nice land in Edinburg Township* where he 
and his family reside. 

E. C. YOUNG, farmer, P. O. Edinbui-gh, was born in Williamstown, Berk- 
shire Co., Mass., May 19, 1809; son of John and Clarissa Young, natives of 
Massachusetts, who remained there until their death. Our subject came to 
this county November 30, 1831, and afterward returned to Massachusetts, 
where he was married April 26, 1836, to Maria H. Goodrich, born in that 
State January, 1813, daughter of Aaron and Affable Goodrich, who died in 
New York State. Mr. and Mrs. Young are the parents of five children, three 
of whom are now living: Clarissa R. , Edgar J. and Sarah M. The deceased 
are Mary E. and Martha. Mrs. Young died August 1, 1846. After her death 



658 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

our subject married, September 13, 1853, Betsey M. Goodrich, a sister of his 
first wife, bora in Massachusetts September 29, 1829. To this union have 
been born two children: George E. and Aflfa. Mr. Young, who has always been 
a farmer, owns sixty-live acres of laud where iie and his family reside. 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 



FRED L. ALLEN, druggist, Kent. This gentleman, who is propri- 
etor of a well-conducted establishment for the sale of medicines and the 
sompounding of prescriptions, has been engaged in this special branch in 
Kent since 1872, and has won the confidence and esteem of the citizens by his 
uniform courtesy and strict attention to their wants. He has a carefully 
selected stock of pure and fresh drugs and proprietary medicines of standard 
reputation, and an excellent assortment of toilet perquisites and perfumery, 
besides carrying a large stock of paints, oils, dye-stuffs, etc. His attractive 
store is situated in the Carver Block, in the business center of the town, and 
laas a depth of sixty-live feet with a width of twenty-four. The compounding 
®f physicians' prescriptions and family recipes is a feature in which Mr. Allen 
takes special aim to excel, and the stock is bought only from reliable houses. 
Mr. Allen was born in Akron, Ohio, July 10, 1848, a son of Asa S. and Electa 
(Arms) Allen. His father is a native of Martha's Vineyard, Mass., and is now 
a practicing physician in Berea, Ohio. Our subject was educated in the Berea 
schools. During the late war of the Rebellion he served two years in the One 
Hundred and Twenty-fifth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, receiving an 
honorable discharge at the expiration of service. In 1866 he located in Kent, 
©bio, and served an apprenticeship of three years in the drug business, wlien 
he became a partner in the business with Dr. J. W. Shively, with whom he 
was connected for two years. He then embarked in the trade for himself and 
has been verv successful. He is a member of the G. A. R. and is a F. & 
A. M. 

ADAM BAES, retail liquor dealer, Kent, was born in Port Washington, 
Tuscarawas Co., Ohio, June 8, 1857. He was reared and educated in his native 
town, and worked at the baker's trade from fourteen to sixteen years of age in 
New Philadelphia. He served in liquor stores of that place and Kent (where 
he came in 1873) up to 1882, in which year he embarked in the liquor business 
©n his own account, and has had a successful trade. He was married, August 
17, 1879, to Catherine, daughter of George and Catherine Ginther, of Stow, 
Summit Co., Ohio, by whom he had one child — Minnie. Mr. Baes is a thor- 
ough business man. In politics he is a Democrat. 

NELSON L. BARBER, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Brimfield Town- 
ship, this county, June 3, 1825, son of Lyman and Julia (Landon) Barber, 
natives of Goshen, Litchfield Co., Conn. Lyman Barber first came to Ohio 
about 1819 and located at Cuyahoga Falls, then a part of this county. He 
■was a carpenter by trade and worked there for a Mr. Griswold, building oil 
mills, remaining about a year. In 1820 he returned to Connecticut and mar- 
ried, and with an ox team and horse ahead, made the journey back to Ohio, 
settling in Brimfield Township, this county, on the place now known as the 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 659 

Cogswell farm, where he lived two years. He then sold out, bought in the 
northeast part of the township and there lived until within a few years of his 
death. He worked at his trade in early days and had his clearing done, pay- 
ing for the same in carpenter work. He had four children: Emily (deceased), 
Myron, Nelson L., and an infant daughter (deceased). Lyman Barber was a 
worthy citizen, and by his industry and perseverance accumulated a large 
property. He died in 1864 at the age of sixty-nine years. The subject of 
this sketch was reared on his father's farm in Brimfield Township, this county, 
and is still the owner of the old family homestead. His early education was 
received in the district school and when twenty years of age he attended a 
select school in Kent (taught by Rev. Mr. Bates) one term, after which he 
passed an examination and taught school three months the following winter in 
Brimfield at $12 per month, and, as was customary in those days, " boarded 
round." He then attended school another term in Kent, under the instruction 
of Frank B. Pond (author of the Ohio Pond Bill), and the winter following 
taught school in the Hart District at $14 per month. He afterward attended 
the Twinsburg Academy under the instruction of Deacon Bissell one term. 
He has taught school in all fourteen terms, but during the most of his life he 
has followed his present occupation, that of farming. On March 15, 1851, 
Mr. Barber closed his school and returned home, cut timber for a house 16x22 
and hauled the timber to building site, raised his house and finished it off 
ready to be occupied. On April 21, same year, he was married, and on day 
following (Friday), he moved, and the next Monday he commenced plowing 
for his spring crops. Our subject did all the work with his own hands, except 
a half day's help from his neighbors at " raising." The partner of his choice 
was Sarah, daughter of John and Margaret (Matiers) Berkheimer, of Franklin, 
this county, whose father was one of the company who started the first glass 
works in Franklin Mills. The issue of this union was four children: Emmet 
N., John L. (deceased), George M. and Jessie. Mr. Barber was a resident of 
Brimfield Township up to 1869, when he removed to the farm in Franklin 
Township where he now resides. His wife died in September, 1881, at the 
age of forty-eight. Mr. Barber is now serving his fourth term as Justice of 
the Peace. In politics he was formerly a Democrat, but since the breaking out 
of the Rebellion has been one of the stanch supporters of the Republican 
party. 

CHARLES H. BARBER, Postmaster, Kent, was born in East Windsor, 
Conn., August 9, 1839, son of Henry and Emily T. (Osborn) Barber, and was 
reared in his native town, where he received a common school education. He 
was a soldier in the late war of the Rebellion, enlisting August, 1862, in 
Company G, Twenty-fifth Connecticut Volunteer Infantry, and was in the 
battle of Irish Bend, La., was wounded at the siege of Port Hudson, June 14, 
1868, when he lost his left arm, and was honorably discharged August 26, 
1863. He then returned home, where he remained until January, 1865, when 
he located in Kent and engaged with Day, Williams & Co. as traveling sales- 
man, for whom he acted thirteen and one-half years. In 1879 he was engaged 
as time-keeper in the New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Railroad shops, which 
position he held up to November, 1883. In October, 1883, he was appointed 
Postmaster of Kent by President Arthur, taking possession of the office 
November 11. He was married in July, 1867, to Clementina, daughter of 
Edward and Clementine (Janes) Parsons, of Brimfield Township, this county, 
by whom he has had six children : William H., Edward P., Charles N. (deceased), 
Clementina J., Frank W. and Arthur O. Mr. and Mrs. Barber are members 



660 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

of the Congregational Church. He is an active member of the G. A. R. In 
politics he is a Republican. 

GEORGE BARNETT, miller, Kent, was born in the County of Sussex, 
England, July 7, 1821; son of John and Susan (Roberts) Barnett. He was 
reared and educated and learned the miller's trade in his native county, where he 
served an apprenticeship of three and a half years, after which he worked as 
a journeyman in Epsom, Barnstead, Banbury and Elhialsham. In 1851 he 
came to America, locating at Cuyahoga Falls, where he worked in Van Tine's 
mill for nearly a year. He then settled in Kent and worked in the Kent 
Flouring Mills up to 1865, when he rented the mills, and with the exception 
of three years, has been proprietor up to the present time. This mill was 
built by Marvin Kent, and is one of the best and most substantial in the State, 
having four run of stone with a capacity of 1,500 barrels of flour per week. 
Mr. Barnett was married, February 25, 1866, to Lucina, daughter of Jona- 
than Thorngate, of Stowe Township, Summit Co., Ohio, by whom he has 
two children: Fanny and Clara Belle. He has served two terms as member of 
the Council of Kent; is one of the directors of the co-operative store; in pol- 
itics a Democrat. 

WILLIAM BASSETT, Jr., farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Ravenna 
Township, this county. May 22, 1829; son of AVilliam and Eloisa (Welton) 
Bassett, natives of Oxford, New Haven Co., Conn. , former born September 18, 
1794, latter August 4, 1798. They came to this county in 1817 and located in 
Rootstown Township where they lived about eight months, then moved to 
Franklin Township and settled on the place known as the Pritchard farm. 
They afterward exchanged the farm for the property now occupied by the 
mother of our subject, which was then considered the poorest portion of the 
township. The farm comprises 263 acres of land, 200 of which are under 
cultivation. William Bassett, Sr., was a veteran of the war of 1812, Captain 
of the militia in Franklin Township in early times, and generally known as 
Capt. Bassett. After his settlement in Franklin Township he taught a night 
school for two months, said to be the first school in the township. He had 
four children: William, Jr., Harriet (deceased), Edward W., in Ravenna, and 
Horace P., in Warren. He was a thorough -going, pushing business man and 
at the time of the building of the Ohio Canal he contracted to furnish the 
stone for the locks. He died October 21, 1878, at the age of eighty-four; his 
widow, aged eighty-six, still resides on the old homestead. Our subject was 
reared in Franklin Township, this county, where he received a common school 
education and has always followed farming as an occupation. He was mar- 
ried. May 9, 1854, to Esther A., daughter of Deacon Barber Clark, of Frank- 
lin Township, this county, who died May 8, 1879, at the age of forty-eight 
years. Mr. Bassett is a member of the Congregational Church, with which he 
has been identified since 1859. He is a F. & A. M. ; in politics a Repub- 
lican. 

JOSEPH BETHEL, dealer in stoves, tinware, etc., Kent, was born in 
England, February 23, 1827; son of Joseph and Sarah (Paylin) Bethel, who 
immigrated to America in 1828 and located in the State of New York but sub- 
sequently removed to Summit County, Ohio, where they lived and died. They 
had seven children: Joseph; Ann (Mrs. Alexander Ritchie); Mary (Mrs. Perry 
Prentiss); Cummings; Elizabeth (Mrs. Nighman); Julia (Mrs. Call),' and Fred- 
erick. The subject of this sketch located in Franklin Mills (now Kent) in 
1850, and embarked in the stove and house-furnishing business witli L. C. 
Dodge & Co., of Ravenna. This partnership continued up to 1857, when they 




1^ ^^ '^"■'' 




,0 



C^ny\^ Jh a^UiA 



fU( 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 663 

retired, Mr. Bethel succeeding to the business, in which he has continued up 
to the present time. He was married, May 22, 1850, to Clara Mills, of Cuya- 
hoga Falls, by whom he has three children living: Louie P., Carrie (Mrs. 
Preston Spaulding) and Harry. Mr. Bethel is one of the live business men 
of Kent, and has served as a member of the Council two terms with credit to 
himself and to the satisfaction of the people. In politics he is a Republican. 

BUEL BLAKE (deceased) was born in Cornwall, Conn., in September, 
1810; son of James and Dorcas (Buel) Blake. He was reared on a farm in 
his native town, where he received a common school education, and was mar- 
ried, in May, 1841, to Sally E., daughter of William and Polly (Lewis) Tut- 
tle, of Milton, Litchfield Co., Conn. By this union there were four children: 
Lewis J., Cicero, Julia C. and William. Mr. Blake came to Portage County, 
Ohio, in 1857, and located in Franklin Township, where he engaged in farm- 
ing and here he resided until his death, which was caused by his falling from 
his barn, June 25, 1867. He was one of the representative farmers and citi- 
zens of Franklin. He was a Republican in politics. He never held nor sought 
office. 

CHRISTIAN BOETTLER, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Greene Town- 
ship, Summit Co., Ohio, March 14. 1836; son of Frederick and Margaretta 
(Zimmerman) Boettler, natives of Germany, who settled in Greene Township, 
Summit Co., Ohio., in 1834, and who were the parents of nine children: Jacob; 
Mary A., wife of F. Krumroy; Margretta, wife of George Humbert; Diana, 
wife of Adam Fulmer; Elizabeth, wife of Peter C. Frisch; Catherine, wife of 
Adam Kroehley; Frederick; Christian and Daniel. Frederick Boettler died in 
1849, his widow in May, 1883. Our subject was reared in his native town- 
ship, where he resided until he was twenty-four years of age, when he located 
in Greene Township, Summit Co., Ohio, for four years, after that in Brim- 
field, Portage Co., Ohio, and there lived eight years. He then resided in Can- 
ton, Ohio, one year, and returned to Brimfield Township, this county, where 
he resided until 1870, when he located in Franklin Township, and has here 
resided ever since. Mr. Boettler has always been engaged in farming and is 
owner of the well-known Arvin Olin farm, but resides in one of the finest sub- 
urban residences of Kent. He was married, December 14, 1860, to Ann M., 
daughter of Peter and Catherine (Essick) Pontius, of Stark County, Ohio, by 
whom he has one child — Chai'ley A. Boettler. Mr. and Mrs. Boettler are 
members of the German Reformed Church. In politics he is a Democrat. 

PHILIP BOOSINGER, of Kent, was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, 
November 21, 1814, son of John and Barbara (Willyard) Boosinger. His 
father was born in eastern Virginia, March 17, 1785, son of Conrad Boosinger, 
a native of Germany, who settled in Ravenna Township, Portage Co., 
Ohio, in 1800, where he cleared and improved a farm. In 1809 he removed 
to Tallmadge, Summit County, where he resided until his death. He had 
twelve children, four sons and eight daughters. John Boosinger was married 
in 1813, and settled in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, where he resided three 
years. In June, 1816, he settled in Brimfield Township, one and a half miles 
west of Brimfield Center, the first permanent settler in the township, where he 
resided until his death at the advanced age of ninety years. He had eight 
children, five sons and three daughters. The subject of this sketch, who was 
reared in Brimfield Township, receiving a limited education in the com- 
mon schools, is a wheelwright, carriage and wagon-maker by trade. On reach- 
ing maturity he worked for four years as a journeyman in Pennsylvania and 
Wayne County, Ohio. In 1843 he returned to Brimfield, embarked in busi- 
ness for himself, and there married in October of the same year Miss Mary A. , 



664 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

daughter of Conrad Neflf. The issue of this union was tive children, two of 
whom are now living: Ellis A. and Rhoda A. (Mrs. Joseph Whitehead.) Mr. 
Boosinger worked at his trade in Brimtield until 1862, when he removed to 
Kent and embarked in the boot and shoe business, in which he was engaged 
about seven years. In politics he was formerly a Democrat, but at the break- 
ing out of the Rebellion joined the Republican party, with which he has since 
acted. 

GEORGE BRADLEY, retired farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Lee, Berk- 
shire Co., Mass., February 20, 1815, son of Stephen and Lybia (Cook) 
Bradley. He was reared and educated in his native town, and came to Hud- 
son, Ohio, in 1834, where he worked on a farm, by the month, for one year. 
In 1835 ho settled in the southwestern part of Streetsboro Township, clearing 
and improving a farm on which he resided up to 1877, when he removed to 
Kent, where he now resides. He has been twice married, his first wife being 
Paulina, daughter of Rufus and Sally (Hall) Peck, who settled in Streetsboro, 
this county, in 1836, and the issue of this union was seven children: Charles; 
Emily, wife of George Nyman; Clara, wife of Samuel Foster; Paulina 
(deceased); Susan, wife of James Olin; Clarinda, wife of E. V. Chamberlain; 
William (deceased). Mr. Bradley was married, January 20, 1878, to his 
present wife, Almira, widow of Biiell Whitney, and daughter of Joseph B. 
and Ruth (Olin) Stratton, who settled in Franklin Township, in 1837. During 
his residence in Streetsboro Township, our subject served as Township Trustee 
two terms. In politics he is a Democrat. Mrs. Bradley is a member of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. 

WARREN BURT, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Southampton, Mass., 
August 6, 1806, son of Martin and Philomela (Robinson) Burt, who settled in 
Franklin Township, this county, in 1821, locating in the vicinity of Brady's 
Lake, where they lived and died. They had six children: Warren, Martin, 
Horace (deceased), Dorcas C. (Mrs. Rodney Wing), Philomela (Mrs. Ormsby) 
and Electa (Mrs. Samuel Wales.) Our subject received a limited common 
school education, and in 1828 settled on the farm now owned by Alonzo John- 
son, where he lived until 1863, when he removed to his present place. He 
was married, November 30, 1829, to Lydia, daughter of Selah and Pruanna 
(Phillips) Shirtliff, who came from Hampden County, Mass., to Franklin Town- 
ship, this county, in 1819. By this union there are two children: Louisa A. 
(Mrs. T. M. Sawyer), of Akron, and Selah W. Mr. and Mrs. Burt are mem- 
bers of the Disciples Church, with which they have been identified upward of 
sixty years. In politics Mr. Burt is a Republican. 

SELAH W. BURT, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Franklin Township, this 
county, June 15, 1835; son of Warren and Lydia (Shurtliflf) Burt. His paternal 
grandparents, Martin and Philamela (Robinson) Burt, formerly of Hampshire 
County, Mass., settled in Franklin Township in 1821, and his maternal grand- 
parents, Selah and Pruanna (Phillips) Shurtliff, formerly of Hampden, Mass., 
settled in Franklin Township in 1819. Our subject was reared in Franklin 
Township, and was educated in the common schools and Hiram College. He has 
been twice married. His first wife was Sarah Stowe, of Franklin Township, this 
county. May 24, 1863, he married his present wife, Susan, daughter of Joseph 
B. and Ruth (Olin) Stratton, of Franklin. The issue of this union is one child 
— Cora M. Mr. Biirt is now serving his eleventh term as Trustee of Franklin 
Township. He is a F. & A. M. ; in politics a Republican. 

CHRISTIAN C. CACKLER, farmer, Kent, was born in Franklin Town- 
ship, this county, August 17, 1836, son of Christian and Theresa (Nighman) 
Cackler, who settled here in 1816. His father was born June 27, 1791, in 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 665 

"Washington County, Penn., seventli child and second son of Christian and 
Julia Ann Cackler, and came to Hudson, Ohio, with his parents in 1804, and in 
1807 was bound out until he was twenty-one, to help provide for the family. 
The war of 1812 breaking out about the time he finished his servitude, he 
volunteered, serving two years, and was in Perry's victorious engagement Sep- 
tember 10, 1813. He was married August 10, 1814, to Theresa Nighman, a 
native of York County, Penn., born November 23, 1791, daughter of Adam 
and Betsey Nighman, who settled in Franklin Township, this county, about 
1809. The issue of this union was twelve children: George, Almon (deceased), 
Polly, Elizabeth (deceased), Harriet (deceased), Edward and Edwin (twins, the 
former deceased), Caroline (deceased), Jacob, Julian, Delanah and Christian 
C. Christian Cackler settled on the farm now occupied by our subject Jan- 
uary 1, 1816. He ran in debt for fifty acres of land at $3.50 per acre, and 
did not get his deed for seventeen years. He began to clear his land by cut- 
ting out the small timber which, together with the old logs, he burned, after 
which he girdled the standing timber, and split his rails. Having no teams, 
he carried them on his back to the line of his fences. Having cleared and 
fenced his farm, he hired a man to do his plowing, planted his corn, and 
worked it entirely with a hoe. He died July 5, 1878; his wife, April 23, 
1869. Christian C. Cackler, our subject, resides on the old family homestead, 
where he was born and reared. He was married August 10, 1862, to Lizzie 
Bentley, born in New York City, January 29, 1843, a daughter of John and 
Mary (Lindsey) Bentley, the father a native of Aberdeen, Scotland, the mother 
of London, England, and who have been residents of Kent, this county, since 
1857. To this union were born four children (two deceased), two now living: 
John and Lula. Mr. Cackler is one of the representative citizens and farmers 
of Franklin Township. In politics he is a Democrat. 

W. L CARIS, dentist, Kent, was born in Eootstown Township, this 
county, September 4, 1852, son of Samuel and Rachel (Ward) Caris, natives 
of Eootstown. His paternal grandfather, John Caris, a native of Cumberland 
County, Penn., and who, with his brother Frederick, settled in Rootstown 
Township, this county, in 1802, was a wheelwright by trade, though in the 
latter part of his life he was engaged in farming. He cleared and improved 
two farms in Rootstown Township. He was a soldier in the war of 1812, 
serving as First Lieutenant of his company, and was taken prisoner at Hull's 
surrender, but escaped the same day. He was the first Justice of the Peace of 
Rootstown, which office he held about fifteen years. He had eight children: 
George, deceased; Frederick; Michael; Susan, Mrs. 'Wilson Fallon; Samuel; 
Lycurgus V. ; Mary (Mrs. James Likens), and Henry. The maternal grand- 
father, Mr. Ward, was also an early settler of Rootstown Township, where he 
lived and died. Samuel Caris, father of our subject, was reared in Rootstown 
Township, where he always resided, engaged in farming. He had two chil- 
dren: Belle E., Mrs. I. L. Herriflf, and William 1. Our subject was reared in 
Rootstown Township, and educated in the common schools. When twenty 
years of age he located in Kent, where he studied dentistry two years with G. 
A. Case. In 1873 he went to Huntington, W. Va., where he practiced his 
profession for one year, but in the fall of 1874 returned to Kent and opened 
an office, where he has been in active practice to the present time. In 1874 
he became a member of the Ohio State Dental Association, and is still an act- 
ive member. He was married, March 25, 1876, to Roxy S., daughter of Luther 
H. and Tama (Ingersoll) Parmelee, of Kent, Ohio. Dr. Caris is a member of 
the I. O. O. F., K. of P., of Kent, of the Akron Encampment, and Temple 
No. 5, of Akron, Ohio. He was elected Clerk of Franklin Township and the 



666 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

corporation of Kent, in 1878, which position he filled for six consecutive 
years. He was appointed Mayor of Kent, Ohio, November 6, 1883, and in the 
spring of 1884 was re-elected. In politics he is independent. 

F. F. CARLILE, tinner and plumber, Kent, was born at Newton Falls, 
Trumbull Co., Ohio, January 31, 1854, son of Freeman and Caroline (DeFor- 
est) Carlile. His paternal grandfather was Henry Carlile, a native of Penn- 
sylvania, who settled at Newton Falls in 1832. His maternal grandfather was 
Curtis DeForest, a native of Connecticut, who came to Franklin Mills (now 
Kent), this county, in 1851, where he carried on farming until 1877, when he 
retired, and now lives in Kent at the age of eighty-two. Our subject was 
reared and educated in Newton Falls, served an apprenticeship of four years 
at the tinner's trade in that place, and in 1875 embarked in business for him- 
self in Kent. In 1881 he engaged in business with Myron A. Thorp, which 
continued nine months. In April, 1882, he became associated with C. R. 
Reed, under firm name of Carlile & Reed, and in 1878 plumbing, steam and 
gas-fitting were added to the business. Mr. Carlile was married, March 12, 
1873, to Abbie E. Selby of Newton Falls, by whom he has six children: Dar- 
win D., Willie R., Lewis K. , Nathaniel W.. Artie and Freddie. Mr. Carlile 
is a member of the I. O. O. F. and R. A. In politics he is a Democrat. 

WILLIAM R. CARVER, P. O. Chicago, 111., was born in Brandon, Vt., 
October 15, 1830; son of Jonathan P. and Betsey K. (Knowlton) Carver, who 
were the parents of nine children, six now living: Emma E., wife of Harry 
Cooley; William R.; Charles P.; Henry C. ; Ann E., wife of Thomas E. Metlin; 
Mary P., wife of C. T. Williams. They settled in Franklin Mills (now Kent) 
in 1843, where Mr. Carver kept the Franklin (now Continental) Hotel for about 
eighteen months, when he retired from business and resided in Kent until his 
death. May 31, 1871, in his seventy-ninth year. His widow has reached the 
ripe age of seventy-nine and now resides in Kent. The paternal grandfather 
of our subject was'Rufus Carver, a native of Deerfield, Vt., a shoe-maker by 
trade and a son of the famous traveler, Capt. Jonathan Carver, who in 1766- 
68 explored the vast country along the Upper Mississippi and received in 
recognition of his influence and services a grant of territory from the Indians, 
of which the following is a copy: 

' ' To Jonathan Carver, 

" A chief under the most mighty and potent George the Third, King of the 
English and other nations, the fame of whose courageous warriors has reached 
our ears, and has been more fully told to us by our good brother Jonathan 
aforesaid, whom we rejoice to see come among us, and bring us good news 
from his country. 

" We, chiefs of the Naudowissies, who have hereto set our seals, do by these 
presents, for ourselves and heirs forever, in return for the many presents and 
other good services done by the said Jonathan to ourselves and allies, give, 
grant, and convey to him the said Jonathan, and to his heirs and assigns for 
ever, the whole of a certain tract or territory of land, bounded as follows, viz. 
From the Fall of St. Anthony, running on the east bank of the Mississippi 
nearly southeast, as far as the south end of Lake Pepin, where the Chipeway 
River joins the Mississippi, and from thence eastward five days travel, account- 
ing twenty English miles per day, and from thence north six days travel, at 
twenty English miles per day, and from thence again to the Fall of St. 
Anthony, on a direct straight line. We do for ourselves, heirs, and assigns 
for ever, give unto the said Jonathan, his heirs and assigns for ever, all the said 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 



667 



lands, with all the trees, rocks, and rivers therein; reserving for ourselves and 
heirs the sole liberty of hunting and fishing on land not planted and improved 
by the said Jonathan, his heirs and assigns. To which we have affixed our 
respective seals, at the Great Cave, May the first, one thousand seven hundred 
and sixty-seven. 



Hawnopawjatin, 



Otohtongoomlisheaw, 




his mark. 



his mark. 



" The foregoing,with the signets from two Indian chiefs of the Naudowissie 
tribes near the Fall of St. Anthony, on the River Mississippi, to Capt. Jonathan 
Carver, dated at the Great Cave on May first, one thousand seven hundred and 
sixty- seven, is a true copy of an original deed, compared according to the 
testimonies of the Rev. Dr. Samuel Peters and Dr. John Coakley Lettsom, M. 
D., as stated in a petition to Congress by Samuel Harrison, on behalf of the 
heirs of Capt. Jonathan Carver, praying for a recognition of the same as on 
file in the Senate Office of the Secretary of the Senate of the United States. 
Examined this 23d day of April, one thousand eight hundred and six, at the 
capitol in the city of Washington. 

' ' Attest, Samuel A. Otis, 
Secretary of the Senate of the United States. 

' * Signed in presence of Samuel Eliot, Junr, 

" The above is certified under the seal of the Secretary of State for James 
Madison." 

This original deed on parchment has been carefully treasured in the fam- 
ily as an "heirloom," but was unfortunately destroyed in the "great fire," 
Chicago, October, 1871. 

The "Great Cave," in which the treaty with Capt. Carver was held and the 
deed executed, is located on the bank of the Mississippi at St. Paul, and is well 
known as " Carver's Cave," and is visited by thousands of tourists annually. 
One of the most thrifty counties and towns of Minnesota also bears the name of 
the great traveler. His maternal grandfather, William Knowlton, a native of 
Beverly, Mass., settled in Franklin about 1835. Our subject was thirteen years 
of age when his parents came to this township. He was educated in the high 
schools of Kent and started in life as a clerk at Ravenna, in the store of Cyrus 
Prentiss, in 1847, with whom he remained six years. He afterward located at 
Cleveland, St. Louis and St. Paul, and has been engaged in various branches 
of business in different sections of the country. In 1872 he purchased the 
Continental Hotel in Kent, a building five stories high with five stores attached, 
on which he has expended several thousand dollars in repaii'ing and improve- 
ments. He is also owner of other valuable property in Kent. Mr. Carver is a 



668 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

gentleman of public spirit and enterprise, always interested in anything that 
tends toward the improvement and public welfai-e of Kent. 

SELAH CLAPP, a pioneer of Portage County, Ohio, was born June 7, 
1775, in the town of South Hampton, Hampshire Co., Mass.. and was a son of 
Selah Clapp, a lineal descendant of Sir Roger Clapp, who came from England, 
his native countx'v, to America in 1630, and settled in the colony of Massachu- 
setts. June 28, 1820, the subject of this sketch, being then married, started 
from his native town with his wife and family of six children for Ohio. 
Their means of conveyance was by horse team, which he drove the entire dis- 
tance, arriving at Franklin Township, Portage Co., Ohio, August 8, 1820. In 
this township on Lot 23 he bought a farm of 163 acres, and moved with his 
family into a log house then standing on the land, 16x18 feet in size, which 
stood about 100 rods southwest of his son's, S. S. Clapp's, present residence. 
About the same time he purchased 250 acres of land in Avon Township, Lorain 
Co., Ohio. Ml*. Clapp was a man of sterling worth, and soon began taking an 
active and prominent part in the affairs of the community where he had estab- 
lished his new home. He was a Whig in politics, and served his township in 
various public capacities, being Trustee for several terms. He was a member 
of the Presbyterian Church, and a liberal supporter of the religious and edu- 
cational interests of the township. He was married in Montgomery Town- 
ship, Hampden Co., Mass., March 1, 1804, to Diana Sheldon, who bore 
him eight children, all in Massachusetts except the youngest, as follows: 
Silas W., born December 24, 1804; Susan, born October 13, 1807, now 
deceased; Spencer, born December 21, 1809; Selah S., born January 9, 1812; 
Samuel, born November 1, 1814, now deceased; Achsah, born March 16, 1817, 
now deceased; Diana, born January 5, 1820; Delana, born November 13, 1822, 
now deceased. The father of this family died June 4, 1810, and the mother 
August 29, 1850. Their remains rest in the cemetery at Kent. 

SELAH S. CLAPP, son of Selah and Diana (Sheldon) Clapp, was born 
in Montgomery Township, Hampden Co., Mass., January 9, 1812, and was 
brought by his parents to Franklin Township in 1820. He was reared to the 
life of a farmer, in the meantime receiving a limited education in the schools 
of his day. At his father's death he purchased the old homestead, eighty 
acres of which he still owns and occupies, thus making him a continuous resi- 
dent on this farm for sixty- five years. He was married at Ravenna, Ohio, 
March 10, 1835, to Mary Brown, who was born in his native town, and a 
daughter of Nicholas and Fanny (Phillips) Brown. Her parents having died 
in Massachusetts, she came to Portage County, Ohio, with her uncle. Benja- 
min Phillips, who settled in Franklin Township in 1832. To the imion of 
our subject and his wife were boi'n four children: Fanny Eliza, born July 7, 
1836, and died January 1, 1855; Mary Adelia, born November 17, 1837; Will- 
iam Henry, born February 16, 1842, married Mary Richardson, and now 
resides in Franklin Township; Lucy Florilla, born September 2, 1845. Mary 
A. and Lucy F. both reside at the homestead with their father. The wife of 
Mr. Clapp died January 27, 1875, aged fifty-eight years, and lies buried in 
Standing Rock Cemetery at Kent. Mr. Clapp is one of Franklin Township's 
oldest as well as one of its most substantial citizens. He is at present the 
owner of 238 acres of valuable land, besides other property. He is a Repub- 
lican in politics, and although not an office seeker has been elected to and has 
served his township in various local offices, and once as Trustee. For the past 
forty- four years he has been a member of the Church of the Disciples, the 
first four years serving as Deacon and for the past forty years as Overseer, and 
Church Trustee thirty years. Mrs. Clapp was also a member of this church 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 669 

for many years. At the erection of the stone church building in Kent for this 
denomination, Mx'. Clapp contributed $1,000. He also assisted in the erec- 
tion of the Presbyterian Church of Kent. 

CHARLES K. CLAPP, Cashier Kent National Bank, Kent, was born in 
Ravenna, Ohio, January 15, 1838, son of Charles and Harriet (Kent) Clapp. 
His father was a native of Turin, N. Y., a son of Ezra Clapp, born January 
2, 1807, and settled in Ravenna, this county, in an early day. There he 
embarked in mercantile trade, which^ he followed for several years, after 
which he located in Franklin Mills (now Kent), this county, and engaged in 
the same business, and later still in Akron, Ohio. He is now a resident of 
Warren County, Ohio. He was married in Ravenna, Ohio, September 1, 1831, 
to Harriet, daughter of Zenas and Pamelia (Lewis) Kent, by whom he had six 
children: Harriet L. (deceased), Charles H. (deceased), Charles K., Ella M. 
(Mrs. John C. Southwick), in New York City; George A., in New York City, 
and Edward L., in San Francisco. The subject of this sketch was reared in 
his native county, where he attended the common schools, thence went to the 
Leicester Academy, Mass., where he remained two years, which comprised his 
educational advantages. Leaving there at the age of sixteen, he went to New 
York City, and for twelve years was employed in the wholesale grocery house 
of Kent & Co. (the last four years a partner in the house), after which he 
removed to Minneapolis, JNlinn., where he resided twelve years, being engaged 
six years in the manufacture of woolen goods, and the balance of the time in 
the agricultui'al implement business. In the fall of 1877 he returned to Kent, 
and in January, 1878, accepted the position of Cashier of the Kent National 
Bank, which he has satisfactorily filled to the present. He was married, 
November 26, 1872, to Mary E. Wood, of Mankato, Minn., by whom he has 
four children: Charles W., Frank S., Leon K. and Harold M. 

ALBERT D. CLARK, real estate, insurance and Notary Public, Kent, was 
born in Kent, April 21, 1842, son of John F. and Eliza (Dunning) Clark. His 
paternal grandparents were George W. and Martha (Laird) Clark, natives of 
Pennsylvania, who located in Stark County at an early day, where the father 
of our subject was born January 13, 1814. George W. was Associate Judge 
of Stark and Portage Counties at an early day, also one of the first surveyors 
in this part of Ohio, and laid out the stage road between Cleveland and Pitts- 
burgh. His children were William L., the first Sheriff of Summit County; 
Robert; James H. ; George W., a minister of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, and a professor at Allegheny College, Meadville, for twenty years; 
John F. ; Jane; Juliette; Martha. John F. , the father of our subject, was 
educated in the academies of Tallmadge and Randolph, and at the age of six- 
teen went to Hudson and served an apprenticeship of four years at the carpen- 
ter's trade, which occupation he has followed all his life. He married in 1839 
Eliza Dunning, formerly of New Milford, Conn., by whom he had five chil- 
dren: George F., Albert D., Amelia (Mrs. Lorenzo Fessenden), Almira (Mrs, 
Anson Pritchard, deceased), and Hattie (Mrs. Charles Coyle). He located in 
Kent in 1838, where he has resided ever since. The maternal grandfather of 
our subject was Ambrosia Dunning, one of the first settlers of Ravenna Town- 
ship. Our subject was reared and educated in Kent. He enlisted April 24, 
1861, in Company F, Seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and after serving three 
months as Corporal was honorably discharged. He re-enlisted August 13, 
1861, and served as Sergeant in Company A, First Regiment Ohio Light 
Artillery, and was Acting Orderly over two years, and commanded the Second 
Section of artilleries over a year. He was in the battles of Shiloh, Stone River, 
Chickamauga (he was recommended for promotion for bravery on the battle- 



670 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

field of Chickamauga by Maj. Wilbur F. Goodspeed), and was in many other 
engagements, and honorably discharged at Chattanooga, Tenn., September 12, 

1864, paying a flying visit to friends in Ohio. He then went into the 
Quartermaster's Department, at Johnsonville, Tenn., serving eighteen months 
as Assistant Superintendent of laborers of that place, also in the vicinity of 
Nashville. When Johnsonville, Tenn., was evacuated by the Union forces he 
went to Nashville, thence to Franklin and Duck Eiver; returning to Nashville 
took passage on the transport "New York" for Eastport, Miss. On the steamer's 
arrival at her destination he accepted and filled the position of Chief Receiving 
Clerk under Lieut. Samuel W. Treat, commanding river and railroad trans- 
portation. On resigning this position he returned to Ohio. He then went 
West and engaged in railroading, visiting all the principal cities of the West. 
In 1S69 he returned to Kent, and accepted a position as foreman in the brass 
foundry of the A. & G. W. R. R., which he held until 1883, when he embarked 
in his present business. He was married August 18, 1870, to Sarah J., daugh- 
ter of Harvey C. and Flora B. Newberry, of Kent. The issue of this union 
was four childi'en: Lenah, Scottie O., Lewis C. and EzzieL., of whom two are 
now living: Lewis C. and Ezzie L. Mr. Clark is a member of the K. of H. , and 
has filled all the chairs of that order. He now holds the ofiice, to which he 
was appointed by S. S. Bloom, Grand Dictator, K. of H. , of Ohio, of District 
Deputy Grand Dictator in and for the Twenty-fifth District of Ohio, compris- 
ing the following counties, to-wit: Ashtabula, Geauga, Portage, Lake and 
Trumbull. He is C. C. Commander of the K. of P. , and a member of the G. 
A. R. He has served the village of Kent as Councilman two terms. In 
1877 he was the Greenback candidate for Representative of Portage County, 
and ran ahead of his ticket. He was also candidate for Mayor of Kent in the 
Republican caucus in the spring of 1884. In politics he is independent. 

JAMES CRANE, hotel proprietor, Kent, was born in Warren, Trumbull 
Co., Ohio, August 6, 1830; son of Ira R. and Lucy B. (Rawdon) Crane, 
natives of Connecticut. His father settled in Warren in 1824, where he 
embarked in the boot and shoe trade, which he carried on there for twenty 
years. He then located in West Farraington, and continued in the same busi- 
ness until his death. He died September 17, 1884, at the age of eighty-two. 
Our subject was reared in his native town and in West Farmington, and was 
educated in the schools of the latter place, and clerked for his father for many 
years. In 1852 he embarked in the dry goods trade in West Farmington, in 
which he engaged up to 1857, when he removed to Illinois, where he resided 
three years. In April, 1861, he enlisted in the three months' service, in the 
late war of the Rebellion, being the first man to enlist in Geauga County, Ohio, 
He was Orderly Sergeant of Company E, Nineteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, 
and served his time. He re-enlisted March 12, 1862, and was appointed Cap- 
tain of Battery E, Fifth New York Artillery. He participated in both battles 
of Winchester, Va., Fishers Hill, Va., at the evacuation of Harper's Ferry, and 
in the battle of Cedar Creek, where he was captured October 19, 1864, and 
taken to Libby, and from there to Danville Prison. He was paroled March 12, 

1865, and was honorably discharged from the service the same date at Anna- 
polis, Md. He then returned to West Farmington and re-entered the dry goods 
business, in which he was engaged up to 1879, when he located in Kent, and 
with his brother-in-law, F. K. Lewis, Esq., rented the "Continental Hotel," 
the principal hotel of the place, which, under the excellent management of 
Crane & Lewis, has become widely known throughout the State. Mr. Crane 
married Amelia E., daughter of Leonard and Mary (Smith) Lewis, of West 
Farmington, by whom he has two children: Minnie and Jay. Capt. Crane is 



4r 



'^^VrET - 








2/fr-LJ^-o^' 



^u 



u 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 678 

one of the live, enterprising citizens of Kent. He is a F. & A. M., a membei' 
of the K. of P. and G. A. R. In politics he is a stanch Republican. 

JOHN CROSS, foreman New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Railroad wood- 
machine shops, Kent, was born in the city of Ely, Cambridgeshire, England 
May 1, 1835, son of John and Elizabeth (Norman) Cross. He was reared and 
educated in his native place, where he learned the trade of brick mason, serv- 
ing an apprenticeship of seven years. He landed in New York City April 1, 
1860, where he remained until the breaking oat of the war of the Rebellion, 
when he enlisted, May 1,1861, in Company E, Sixty-seventh New York Infantry, 
serving until January 1, 1863, at which date he was discharged at Lincoln 
Hospital, Washington, D. C, by reason of being appointed Hospital Steward 
in the United States Army. He re- enlisted January 23, 1863, for five years, 
and served as Hospital Steward up to August 22, 1865, when he was honor- 
ably discharged. He was married, December 17, 1856, to Sarah B. , daughter 
of Joseph and Mary A. (Watkinson) Pearson, of Ely, England, by whom he 
had two children: Alexander and Sarah. Mr. Cross located in Kent, this 
county, in October, 1865, and entered the employ of the Atlantic & Great 
Western, now New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Raih'oad Company, with whom 
he has been engaged to the present time, and since 1871 he has held his pres- 
ent position as foreman of the wood-machinery shops of the company. He and 
his wife are members of the Universalist Church. Mr. Cross was elected to 
the Council of Kent in the spring of 1883. He is a F. & A. M., and a mem- 
ber of the G. A. R. In politics he is a Democrat. 

GEORGE W. DEAN, nurseryman, Kent, was born in Wayne Township, 
Ashtabula Co., Ohio, August 20, 1820, son of Horatio G. and Rebecca (Forbes) 
Dean, natives of Massachusetts, the former coming to Ashtabula County, Ohio, 
about 1816, the latterin 1806. The paternal grandfather of our subject was Abia- 
ther Dean, of Massachusetts, and his maternal grandfather was Nathan Forbes, 
who settled in Wayne Township, Ashtabula Co., Ohio, in 1806. Our subject 
was reared in his native township, and educated in the common schools and 
the academy at Farmington, Ohio. His father being a shoe-maker, our sub- 
ject engaged in that trade in his native town and in Auburn, Ohio, until 
thirty-five years of age. In the winter of 1855 he embarked, in Troy, Geauga 
Co., Ohio, in the nursery business, which he carried on there for eight years. 
In 1864 he removed to Franklin Township, this county, where he has been 
engaged to the present time keeping a general nursery stock, and up to 1874 
he carried a florists' stock. Besides horticulture Mr. Dean has of late inter- 
ested himself in several branches of natural science, and has collections in 
Archaeology, Paleontology, Mineralogy and Conchology, and his collection in 
connection with the last-named science numbers 1,350 distinct species of 
marine, fresh water and land shells, carefully selected and systematically classi- 
fied and arranged. Mr. Dean was married September 1, 1852, to Maria, 
daughter of Col. Drayton Jones, of Wayne Township, formerly of Connecti- 
cut, "and has one daughter — Lillian. Mr. Dean is an active member of the 
County Horticultural Society, of which he was Vice-President for several 
years. In politics he is a Republican. 

GEORGE DEWEY, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Chester, Mass., Sep- 
tember 10, 1801, son of Stephen and Persus (Morgan) Dewey, who settled in 
this county in 1824, locating m Franklin Township on land now owned by our 
subject and Samuel' Beckwith, and where Stephen Dewey died in 1831. He 
had nine children: Morgan, Edwin, Electa, Almena, Julia, Editha, George, 
Roland and Alonzo, all now deceased except George and Roland. The subject 
of this sketch has lived on the farm whei*e he now resides sixty years, and 

35 



674 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

made all the improvements himself. He was married, April 7, 1830, to Mary, 
daughter of Chauncey Mosley, of Westfield, Mass. By this union there were 
nine children, four now living: Margaret (Mrs. Dr. I. S. King, of Montcalm 
County, Mich.), George, Jr., Mary and Hattie (Mrs. Orlando Stewart, of 
Montcalm County, Mich.). The deceased are Jane, Clinton. Elizabeth, Lucy 
and Sarah. Of these Clinton died in hospital at Nashville, Tenn., during the 
late war of the Rebellion, leaving one child — Estelle (Mrs. Ralph Dibble, who 
has one child — Mary). Our subject is a member of the Portage County Pion- 
eer Society, and has held various offices in the gift of the township. In poli- 
tics he is a Republican. 

FRED L. DUNNING, painter, Kent, was born in Brimfield Township, 
this county, May 23, 1833, son of Samuel L. and Susan H. (Bostwick) Dun- 
nino-. His paternal grandfather was Squire Dunning, formerly of New 
Eno-land, who settled in Ravenna Township, this county, about 1824, where 
he lived and died. He had four children: Almon S. , Samuel L. (deceased), 
Almira (Mrs. E. Moulton) and Eliza (deceased). The maternal grandfather 
of our subject was Ashbel Bostwick, also from New England, who came to 
Ravenna Township about 1827, where he is said to have built the first frame 
house. Samuel L. Dunning, the father of our subject, was married December 
25, 1830, and the same year settled in Brimfield Township, this county. He 
was a carpenter by trade, though interested in farming, and always owned a 
farm until a short time before his death. In 1842 he located in Franklin 
Mills (now Kent), this county, and manufactured plows, being chiefly engaged 
in that business for many years. He died January 31, 1858, in his fiftieth 
year, and his widow September 30, 1880, at the age of sixty-five. They had 
six children, of whom the subject of this sketch is the only one now living. 
He received a limited ediication in the common schools, and when fourteen 
years of age entered his father's foundry, where he worked until 1862. He 
served three years in the late war of the Rebellion, enlisting August 2, 1862, 
in Company F, Forty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was mustered into 
the service' as Corporal, but was promoted to Second Lieutenant, then First 
Lieutenant, and finally Captain. He was at the siege of Knoxville, Tenn., 
twenty-two days, under the command of Gen. Burnside, and surrounded by 
Lono-street's army, in the battles of Franklin and Nashville, Tenn., and in 
all the engagements ia which his regiment participated. For a time his reg- 
iment was mounted and detailed as the advance scouts of Burnside's army, 
with orders to never lose sight of the Rebels, and were sometimes twenty miles 
ahead of the army. He was with Sherman at Atlanta, Ga., then under Gen. 
Thomas till the close of the war, and was honorably discharged at Camp 
Harker, Tenn., August 12, 1865, when he returned to Kent, since which time 
he has followed painting as an occupation in the car shops of that city. His 
first wife was Ann M. Fessenden, of Kent, by whom he had two children: Ella 
M. (Mrs. Arthur Olin), and Cora (deceased). His second wife was Clara Fow- 
ler, and his present wife is Ellen, daughter of Hiram and Clarissa (Meacham) 
Spencer, of Suffield. this county. In politics Capt. Dunning is a stanch Repub- 
lican. He is an active member of the K. of H. and the G. A. R. 

JOHN G. EVANS, merchant tailor, Kent, was born in Cardiganshire, South 
Wales, December 25, 1845; son of John and Eleanor (Evans) Evans. He was 
reared and educated in his native land, where he served an apprenticeship of 
three years to the tailor's trade. In 1866 he came to America and located in 
Pittsburgh, Penn., where he worked as a journeyman tailor for seven years. 
From there he went to Butler, Penn., as cutter with D. L. Byerer, which 
position he held five years. He then embarked in the merchant tailoring busi- 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 675 

ness for himself, in company with Daniel Davis, doing business there for two 
years, when they removed to Akron, Ohio, and remained six months, divided 
their stock, and in September, 1880, our subject located in Kent. He was mar- 
ried September 13, 1868, to Annie Mortimer, of Pittsburgh, by whom he has 
three children living: Kebecca, John G. . Jr., and Dennison M. Mr. and Mrs. 
Evans are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Our subject is a 
member of the K. of P. and the I. O. O. F.; he is ^ F. & A. M.; in politics, a 
Republican. 

JOHN A. FELT, machinist and manufacture}- of the Acme Paint Burner, 
Kent, was born in Peterboro, Hillsborough Co., N. H., May *8, 1837, son 
of Stephen and Mary K. (Ames) Felt. He was reared and learned his trade 
in Peterboro. In 1855 he came to Ohio, locating in Norwalk, and work- 
ing in the Lake Shore Railroad Shops for eleven years; then he moved to Fair- 
field, Huron County, where he remained one year, and in 18(37 located in Kent, 
where he has been employed as a machinist in the railroad shops to the present 
time. On October 3, 1882, he received a patent on the Acme Paint Earner, 
designed to remove old paint from I'ailroad cars, vehicles, furniture, etc., and 
has since been engaged in the manufacture of the same. Mr. Felt was mar- 
ried, August 1, 1860, to Emma A.. Willey, of Norwalk, Ohio, by whom he has 
two children: Cora A. and Elmer J. He is an active member of the I. O. O. 
F. In politics a Republican. 

BYRON FERREY, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Franklin Township, 
this county, September 7, 1846; son of Aaron and Mary (Dickinson) Ferrey, 
natives of Massachusetts. Aaron Ferrey was twice married, and by his first 
wife, Elizabeth (Goodrich) Ferrey, he had eleven children, and by his second 
marriage (with Mary Dickinson) he had two children — Eliza, wife of Henry 
A. Swan, and Byron. He settled in Franklin Township,' this county, about 
1832, locating on the farm now owned by Harley Judson, where he lived 
about twenty years, when he removed to Kent and resided there until his death. 
He died in 1860, at the age of seventy- eight. Our subject has always lived in 
his native township, where he was reared and educated. He was married, 
September 5. 1870, to Hannah, daughter of Harley and Chloe (Loomis) Jud- 
son, oE Franklin Township, this county, by whom he has three children: Min- 
nie, Charlie J. and Georgia M. Mr. Ferrey is a representative farmer of 
Franklin Township; in politics he is a Democrat. 

FREDERICK FOOTE, grocer. Kent, was born in Wood County, Ohio, 
November 14, 1835; son of Epaphroditus and Charlotte M. (Smith) Foote, 
former of whom settled in Wood County in 1827, and there lived until his 
death. Our subject was reared on his father's farm and educated in the com- 
mon schools. He farmed in his native county up to 1863, after which he 
served as a clerk in a general store till 1872, when he located in Kent and 
engaged in mercantile business with E. A. Parsons. November 1, 1873, he 
became manager of the Kent co-operative store, but in January, 1882, he 
embarked in the grocery business with C. I*". Sawyer. October 1, 1883, Rob- 
ert Reed became associated with him under the firm name of Foote & Reed, 
one of the leading grocery firms of Kent. Mr. Foote married, September 2, 
1872, Alice, daughter of Freeman and Mercy A. (Lincoln) Underwood, of 
Brimfield, by whom he has had three children: Ernest N. (deceased), Mary L. 
and Carl F. He is a member of the R. A. and is a F. & A. M. ; has been 
Treasurer of the Township Corporation and a member of the School Board. 
In politics he is a Democrat. 

GEORGE A. FURRY, grocer, Kent, was born in Brimfield Township, 
this county, December 16, 1838, son of William and Martha L. (Russell) 



676 BIOGRAPHICAli SKETCHES: 

Furry. His paternal grandfather was John Furry, a native of Pough- 
keepsie, N. Y. , who settled in Brimtield Township, this county, in 1816, 
where he lived and died, and whose wife was Julia A. Harris, a native of 
Philadelphia, by whom he had eight children: Joseph (deceased), William 
(deceased), Mooney (deceased), Ann (Mrs. Edward Russell), Henry T., 
Lucy J. (deceased), Mary J. (Mrs. George Ogle), and an infant son 
(deceased). The maternal grandfather of our subject was Edward Russell, 
an early settler of Brimfie Id Township, this county. The children of AVilliam 
Furry were George A., Helen E. (Mrs. David Tucker, of Kent), Lucy (Mrs. 
Theodore Campbell, of Kent), and Wallace W., of Cleveland. Our subject, 
after he became of age, farmed until April, 1861, when he enlisted in Com- 
pany G, Seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was in the battles of Cross 
Lane, Winchester, Antietam, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Cedar Mountain, 
Lookout Mountain, Ringgold, Resaca, Peach Tree Creek, and many other 
engagements, and was honorably discharged June 9, 1864. In that year he went 
to Poughkeepsie, N. Y. , where he attended the Eastman Business College for 
six months, thence went to Cleveland, Ohio, where he served as Clerk in the 
distributing department in the postoffice in that city; then returned to this 
county and served as Clerk in Streetsboro. In 1873 he embarked in the 
grocery business in Kent, with George L. Stauffer, Esq., in which he has since 
been successully engaged. He was married, May 19, 1876, to Lucy, daughter 
of James and Maria (Hopkins) Woodai'd, of Kent, by whom he has one child 
— Mattie M. Mr. Furry is a member of the Masonic fraternity, the G. A. R., 
and R. A. In politics he is a stanch Republican. 

WILLIAM R. GARDNER, baker, Kent, was born in Brimfield Township, 
this county, December 30, 1819; son of John V. and Sarah A. (Spear) Gard- 
ner, natives of Massachusetts, who settled in Brimtield Township in 1817, 
where they lived until February, 1838, when Mrs. Sarah A. Gardner died. 
John V. Gardner then, in 1839, removed to Franklin Mills (now Kent), where 
he embarked in mercantile business, in which he was engaged for several years. 
He died April 7, 1878, in his ninety-first year. He served as Justice of the 
Peace of Brimfield for fifteen years, also in Franklin about the same length of 
time. He was married first to Sax'ah A. Spear, by whom he had nine chil- 
dren, seven of whom grew to manhood and womanhood: John V. R. , Eliza 
and Julia Ann E. (deceased), William R. , Reuben F. (deceased), Reuben F., 
Abigail" L. (Mrs. John Morris), Caroline A. (Mrs. O. C. Holden), Sarah F. 
(Mrs. Nourse). Then, in March, 1839, J. V. Gardner was married to Marga- 
ret Beatty, nee Haymaker, by whom he had three children: George D., Mary 
(Mrs. George Stauffer) and Estella (Mrs. Mark Chase). The subject of this 
sketch was reared in Brimfield Township, and in 1839 came to Kent with his 
parents and entered his father's store. He was with D. P. Rhodes, of Cleve- 
land, for several years, and embarked in his present business in 1876. He 
was married, in 1851, to Sarah E. De Moss, of Coshocton, Ohio, by whom he 
has two children: John Y. and Lewis D. Mr. Gardner is one of the substan- 
tial business men of Kent. In politics he is a Republican. 

CHARLES A. GARRISON, veterinary surgeon, Kent, was born in Stowe 
Township, Summit Co., Ohio, August 18, 1842; son of James and Hannah 
(Walker) Garrison, who settled in Stowe Township about 1828-30, where they 
cleared and improved a couple of farms. They had six children: William, 
who died in the service of the Union, during the late war of the Rebellion; 
Charles A.; Alice, wife of William Grubb; Fannie, wife of Henry Minnich; 
Maxwell; and Edward (deceased). The paternal grandfather of our subject 
was Joseph Garrison, a native of Pennsylvania, and an early settler of Deer- 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 677 

field Township, this county. His maternal grandfather, William Walker, a 
native of Virginia, was one of the first settlers of Stowe Township. Our sub- 
ject was reared in his native township, and educated in the Kent High School, 
and at Twinsburg Institute. In 1875 he went to Seville, Ohio, and studied 
veterinary surgery with Dr. Miller, of that place, with whom he remained 
three years, and in 1878 entered the Ontario Veterinary College, Toronto, 
Canada, where he took a two-years' course of instruction. In 1880 he com- 
menced the practice of his profession in Kent, where he has done a successful 
business to the present time. He was married August 18, 1864, to Mattie, 
daughter of William and Margaret Reese, of Franklin Township, this county, 
by whom he has three children living: Frank, Max and Minnie. Mr. Garrison 
and wife are members of the Disciples Church. In politics he is a Democrat. 

SENECA GREEN, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Hampshire County, 
Mass., October 3, 1808; son of Clark and Submit (Hastings) Green, natives of 
Massachusetts. He was reared on a farm until fourteen years of age, and 
then served an apprenticeship of six years at the shoe-makers' trade, afterward 
working in North Lee, Mass., as a journeyman one year; then embarked in 
business for himself in South Lee, where he was engaged up to 1836. In the 
fall of the same year he came to Ohio, and in February, 1837, bought the 
farm where he now resides. There was a plank cabin and a small barn on the 
place when he pui'chased it. In 1842 he erected a good barn, and in 1844 
built his present residence. Mr. Green has been twice married, his first wife 
being Sarah Spellman, of Monterey, Mass., to whom he was married October 
3, 1832. She died May 6, 1834. February 29, 1836, Mr. Green next mar- 
ried Mary A. Holt, of Austerlitz, N. Y., and the issue of this union was six 
children: Sarah (Mrs. H. L. Russell); Stephen; Spellman; Ann (Mrs. G. H. 
Taylor), in Lansing, Mich.; Mary (Mrs. A. A. Ross) in Mount Vernon, Ohio., 
and George B., residing at home, who was married October 21, 1874, to Clara, 
daughter of James D. and Mary R. (Olin) Haymaker, of Franklin, and by 
her he has two children — Mabel A. and James S. Our subject lost bis second 
wife June 6, 1876, in her sixty-fifth year. Mr. Green is one of the represent- 
ative farmers of Franklin Township. In politics he was formerly a Whig, 
but has been a stanch Republican since the organization of the party. 

WILLIAM GRIDLEY, carpenter and machinist, Kent, was born in Hamp- 
den County, Mass., August 12, 1807; son of Oliver and Mary (Bradley) Grid- 
ley. His educational advantages were limited, as he was bound out on a farm 
in New Haven County, Conn., until he was twenty-one years old. When 
nineteen years of age he ran away, and arriving in Hampden County, Mass., 
he served an apprenticeship of two years at the millwright trade; worked in 
the cotton-mills at Chicopee Falls, Mass., fourteen months as a journeyman 
mechanic, after which he engaged as a master mechanic in the mill of A. Dens- 
low, at Windsor, Conn., where he remained about three years. He made, but 
did not invent, the first machine that made cotton batting out of waste; then 
went to work on the Boston & Albany Railroad as a mechanic and inspector of 
lumber, and in August, 1844, he came to Ohio, locating in 1845 in Kent, 
where he has worked at his trade of millwright, carpenter, etc., up to the 
present time. Mr. Gridley was married in December, 1832, to Clara, daugh- 
ter of Calvin and Lydia (Grinnell) Bedortha, of Hampden County, Mass.. by 
whom he has had five children: Talbot, William (killed at the battle of Get 
tysburg, in July, 1863), Benjamin (killed at the battle of Cedar Mountain), 
Laura (Mrs. O. S. Nichols) and Clara (deceased). Our subject's first wife 
dying March, 1853, he next married Mary Chatman, daughter of John and 
Martha Twitchell, by whom he had one child, Lilian (Mrs. Dr. R. F. Hamb- 



678 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

lin). His son Talbot served iu the late war in the Seventh Regt. O. V. I., 
and was wounded in the shoulder at the battle of Winchester; his son Will- 
iam was a member of the Eighth Regt. O. V. I., and Benjamin was a member 
of the Seventh O. V. I. Mr. Gridley is a member of the Episcopal Church; 
the I. O. O. F. In politics he is a Republican. 

SAMUEL B. HALL, merchant, Kent, was born in Brimfield Township, 
this county, July 29, 1881; son of Henry and Elizabeth (Breck) Hall, natives 
of Vermont. His father was a son of Benjamin Hall, who settled in Brim- 
iield Township, this county, in 1818, and taught the first district school in the 
township; his mother was a daughter of Daniel Breck, of Hartland, Vt. They 
had four children: Porter B., Caroline (deceased), Samuel B. (first, deceased), 
and Samuel B. (second). Henry Hall was a carpenter by trade, but after his 
settlement in Brimfield Township was principally engaged in farming. In 1850 
the family removed to Franklin Mills (now Kent), where Mrs. Hall died in 1852. 
Mr. Hall then married for his second wife Mrs. Sophia Kilborn, of Hudson, 
whither he afterward removed, and there resided until his death in 187G; he died 
at the age of seventy-eight. He was a member of the Congregational Church, in 
which he was a Deacon for many years. Samuel B., the subject of this sketch, 
was educated in the common schools and Kent Academy. Owing to ill health, 
in 1853, he went to California, remaining there three years, when he returned 
to Kent and engaged in farming for several years. After that he embarked. in 
mercantile trade; then was in the drug business for a time, and in 1876 
engaged in the boot and shoe trade, in which he has continued to the present 
time. Mr. Hall has been twice married, first in September, 1858, to Sarah, daugh- 
ter of Guy and Sarah Doolittle, of Brimfield. this county. The issue of this 
union was one child — Cora (Mrs. Charles Reed). Mr. Hall was married to his 
present wife, Jane Barton, of Kent. Ohio, in September, 1866, and by her 
has three children: Henry, Porter and Herbert. Mr. and Mrs. Hall are mem- 
bers of the Congregational Church. In politics he is a Republican; an active 
F. & A. M. 

JAMES P. HALL, shop clerk, New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Railroad 
Shops, Kent, was born in Brimfield Township, this county, September 12, 
1832, son of William and Maria (Law) Hall. His paternal grandj)arents were 
Benjamin and Sarah (Brown) Hall, of Windsor, Vt., who settled in Brimfield 
Township in 1819, where they lived and died. They had six children: Henry 
(deceased), Betsey (deceased), Charles (deceased), Mary A. (deceased), William, 
Susan S. (Mrs. Henry Sawyer). By his second wife Mr. Hall had one child — 
Sarah (Mrs. Sylvester Wolcott). The father of our subject lived on the old 
homestead till 1867, when he removed to Kent, where he still resides. He was 
twice married, first to Maria, daughter of Jonathan and Mary Law, of Brim- 
field, by whom he had four children: James P., Durand C, Mary E., Lucy M. 
(Mrs. I. P. Griswold); and second to Berthia Palmer, of Brimfield, by whom 
he had thi-ee children: Newton H., Helen M. (Mrs. Henry Wilcox) and Anna 
(Mrs. B. F. Shewart). Our subject was reared in Brimfield Township, engaged 
in farming until twenty-eight years of age, then removed to Kent and embarked 
in the grocery trade, in which he was occupied two years. Since then, with 
the exception of four years, he has been in the employ of the Atlantic & Great 
Western and New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Railroad Companies to the 
present time. He was married September 27, 1854, to Myra T. , daughter of 
Harmon and Harriet (Bishop) Bradley, of Brimfield, by whom he had four 
children: Will H., Charles E., Fred P. and Georgie D. (deceased). Mr. Hall 
and wife are members of the Consregfational Church. He is a member of the 
Masonic fraternity and K. of H. ; has held the office of Township and Corpor- 
ation Clerk one term. In politics he is a stanch Rej^ublican. 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 679 

NEWTON H. HALL, lumberman, P. O. Kent, was born in Brimfield 
Township, this county, August 4, 1842, son of William and Bethiah (Palmer) 
Hall. His paternal grandfather, Benjamin Hall, a native of Vermont, settled 
in Brimfield Township, this county, in 1819, and his maternal grandfather, 
John Palmer, was a native of Connecticut, a soldier of the Revolution. Our 
subject was reared in his native township and was educated in the common 
schools. He was in the late war of the Rebellion, enlisting August 4, 1862, in 
Company I, One Hundred and Fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He participated 
in the Tennessee campaign, under Burnside; the Atlanta campaign, under 
Sherman, and the Nashville campaign, under Thomas; was in all the engage- 
ments of his regiment, and at Franklin, Tenn., November 30. 1864, he cap- 
tured a flag from Gen. P. Clayburn's division of the Rebel Army, for which act 
he received a medal from Congress in January, 1865. He was honorably dis- 
charged in June, 1865, when he returned to Brimfield Township and engaged 
in farming there up to 1881, and then removed to Kent, Ohio. The same year 
he embarked in business at Boardman, Ohio, where he is still interested in a 
planing-mill and lumber trade. He was married April 15, 1874, to Stella, 
daughter of James and Maria (Hopkins) Woodard, of Kent, this county, by 
whom he has two children: Anna and Helen. Mr. Hall is a F. & A. M. In 
politics he is a Republican. 

JAMES D. HAYMAKER, farmer, P. O. Earlville, was born September 2, 
1809, a short distance from the spot where Brady made his famous leap across 
the Cuyahoga River, in Franklin Township, this county, son of Frederick and 
Rachel (Davis) Haymaker. His father, who was a native of Allegheny County, 
Penn. , came from that State to Ohio in 1806, and located at Franklin Mills 
February 18, that year, in that part of Kent now known as the Upper Village. 
He was thrice married. His first wife was Eleanor Robinson, by whom he had 
seven children, all now deceased. His second wife was Rachel Davis, who died 
in this county, by whom he had one child — James D., the subject of this 
sketch. By his third wife, Polly Swan, he had twelve children, of whom six 
are now living, none residing in this county. Mr. Haymaker was a resident 
of Franklin off and on up to 1836, when he removed to Trumbull County, 
Ohio, where he died in 1852. His remains and those of his third wife are 
interred in Warren, Ohio. He was Private Secretaiy to Aaron Burr, while on 
the expedition for which he was tried for treason in 1807. Jacob Haymaker, 
the father of Frederick and grandfather of our subject, settled at Franklin 
Mills (now Kent) in J 805, and built the first grist mill ever operated in the 
township; it was on the site now occupied by " Kent's Mill." He was a car- 
penter and millwright by trade; he died at Kent, as did also his wife. Our 
subject received only a limited education, and never saw a schoolhouse until 
ten years of age. In his youth he became thoroughly acquainted in his father's 
factory with the woolen manufacturing business. This factory was located 
at Franklin Mills (now Kent). At the age of twenty-one he engaged for two 
years in the manufacture of wooden pails in the same town; the next two 
years he had charge of a hotel at Fairport, on Lake Erie; then returning to 
Franklin he engaged in farming, to which occupation he has ever since devoted 
his time. November 29, 1835, he was married to Mary R. Olin, who was born 
February 22, 1820, in Genesee County, N. Y., and a daughter of Arvin Olin, 
who came to Ohio in 1834 and settled in Franklin, where he passed the 
remainder of his life. By this union were born the following children: Frank- 
lin, born December 16, 1836, and died April 30, 1851; Oscar F., born May 
21, 1838; Rachel D., born May 18, 1840; Ann Maria, born May 17, 1842; 
Arvin O., born April 5, 1844; Mary R., born April 15, 1846, died July 27, 



680 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : 

1866; James A., born June 21, 1848; Clara L. , born August 30, 1850; Almira 
E., born January 27, 1854; Martha A., born May 20, 1856; Cora E., born 
May 5, 1858, died February 2, 1859; William J., born February 2, 1860, and 
Abbie M., born November 27, 1863. J, D. Haymaker has always been an 
ardent Eepublican and during the darkest days of the civil war was firm in 
his support of the administration in aid of the Union cause, contributing lib- 
erally of his means, and invariably exerting his influence to the end that the 
Union should be preserved. One of his sons, James A., enlisted in the One 
Hundred and Ninety-third Eegiment, Company I, and served in the Union 
Army during the civil war. Mr. and Mrs. Haymaker are admirable types of 
the pioneers who first settled in Portage County, and possess in a large degree 
those traits which have become traditionary among us as ascribed to the pio- 
neers, the sterling qualities, good, strong, well balanced minds, athletic and 
healthy physique, unimpeachable integrity and a desire to do unto others as 
they would be done by — qualities, too, which they have transmitted to their 
large family of children, in an eminent degree. During their long lives they 
have cheerftilly given to the needy and in support of the religious and educa- 
tional interests of the community. They are now living in the midst of their 
friends, possessed of an ample competence to make their coming years com- 
fortable, and in the enjoyment of that content which comes from reflecting on 
a life well and worthily spent. Mr. Haymaker has served his township in 
various official capacities. He was Trustee for several years, Justice of the 
Peace for several terms and a School Director many times. 

OSCAK F. HAYMAKER, farmer, P. O. Earlville, was born in Franklin 
Township, this county, May 21, 1838; son of James D. and Mary R. (Olin) 
Haymaker. He was reared in his native township and educated in its common 
and select schools. He remained on the old homestead with his father until 
twenty-four years of age when, in partnership with his brother-in-law, S. H. 
Green, he bought a farm in Franklin Township, this county, which was car- 
ried on for four years and then sold. Our subject then worked his father's 
farm for three years and in 1879 purchased of D. P. Hopkins his present farm, 
where he has resided ever since. He was married, May 21, 1862, to Mary S., 
daughter of Dr. J. M. and Mary (Ferris) Burlingame, of Newbury, Geauga 
Co., Ohio. By this union he has three children: Ida A., wife of F. A. Mer- 
rill, Cora M. and Lillie E. Mr. and Mrs. Haymaker are members of the Uni- 
versalist Church of Kent. Our subject is serving his fourth term as School 
Examiner of Portage County. He is a F. & A. M. ; in politics a Repub- 
lican. 

ARTIN O. HAYMAKER, farmer, P. O. Earlville, was born in Franklin 
Township, this county, April 5, 1844; son of James D. and INIary R. (Olin) 
Haymaker. His paternal grandfather, Frederick Haymaker, settled in Frank- 
lin in 1806. His maternal grandfather, Arvin Olin, settled in Franklin Town- 
ship, this county, in 1834. Our subject was reared in Franklin Township and 
educated in the common schools, and in connection with his farming interests, 
has taught school for twenty consecutive winters. He has been twice married, 
on first occasion, April 5, 1866, to Hattie E., daughter of Joseph and Jean- 
nette (Graham) Norton, of Brimfield Township, this county. By this union 
there were two children: Charles A. and Hattie E. May 26, 1870, Mr. Hay- 
maker married his present wife, Hattie, daughter of William and Catherine 
(Burger) Powell, of Homeworth, Columbiana Co., Ohio. The issue of this 
union has been three children: Homer A., Debbie J. and Frank P. Mr. and 
Mrs. Haymaker are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church; in politics 
he is a Republican. 




^^5^^^^^^^^,^^ 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 683 

JOSEPH HEIGHTON, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Hargrave, North- 
amptonshire, England, February 4, 1827; son of Thomas and Sarah (Goodes) 
Heighten, who, in 1832, settled in Edinburg, Portage Co., Ohio, where they 
cleared and improved the farm on which they lived and died. Their children 
were William (deceased), Thomas, Sarah (deceased), Elizabeth (deceased), Ann 
(deceased), John, Joseph, Hannah (deceased) and an infant (deceased). 
Thomas Heighton, Sr., was a blacksmith by trade, and the first one to follow 
this bussiness as an occupation in that part of the county where he settled. 
He was a man of peculiar ideas, a thorough American in feeling, a lover of 
the Republican form of government (which was his main reason for coming to 
America) and was one of tbe first men in Portage County to advocate the anti- 
slavery doctrine. He was a prominent member of the Baptist Church. He 
died at the age of fifty-two years, honored by all who knew him. Our subject 
was reared in Edinburg, this county, and received his education in the com- 
mon schools. He was married July 19, 1848, to Olive Cornelia, daughter of 
Ariel Lewis and Minerva (Colton) Ca.se, of Rootstown, and born April 8, 1829, 
in Rootstown. She had the advantages of a common school education and 
taught school at one time. Her father was born July 31, 1804, in Coventry, 
Tolland Co., Conn. Her mother was born May 20, 1805, in Tolland, Tolland 
Co., Conn. Her paternal grandfather, Ariel Case, a native of Tolland County, 
Conn., and a soldier of the war of 1812, settled in Rootstown Township, this 
county, in 1809. Her maternal grandfather, Stephen Colton, a native of Ver- 
mont, settled in Rootstown, Ohio, in 1805. Mr. Heighton and wife have four 
children: Marius H. ; Ann, wife of N. E. Olin; Parker H. and Lloyd B. After 
coming of age, Mr. Heighton, with his brother, John, purchased the old home- 
stead, where he resided until the fall of 1862 and in the spring of 1863 he 
located in Franklin Township, this county, on the farm now owned and occu- 
pied by his son Marius, where he remained till 1879, when he moved to his 
present property east of Kent. He has always been a temperate man, 
never having used tobacco, spirits, tea or coffee. He is a member of the Pio- 
neer Association; one of the representative citizens of Franklin Township; in 
politics he is a Republican. 

MARIUS HEIGHTON, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Edinburg Town- 
ship, this county, June 14, 1849, and is a son of Joseph and Olive C. (Case) 
Heighton (see sketch of Joseph Heighton). Our subject was reared on the 
farm and as an occupation has always followed agricultural pursuits. He 
came to Franklin Township, this county, with his parents in 1863 and has 
since resided here. He was united in marriage January 1, 1879, with Ida, 
daughter of John H. and Rebecca (Bergin) Hubbard, of Kent, this county, by 
whom he has one child — Marius Hubert. In politics Mr. Heighton is a 
Republican. 

IRA L. HERRIFF, furniture dealer, Kent, was born in Rootstown, 
November 19, 1846, son of Samuel and Lydia (Hartlerhode) Herriff. His 
paternal grandfather was John Herriff, a native of Pennsylvania and among 
the early settlers of Rootstown. His maternal grandmother was Elizabeth 
Hartlerhode, who with seven children — Lawrence, John, Samuel, Christian, 
Kate, Mary and Ludia — settled in Rootstown in an early day. She afterward 
married Samuel Hartle, of Rootstown. Samuel Herriff, the father of our sub- 
ject, is a farmer and resident of Rootstown. His children were six in num- 
ber: Ira L., Ezra, Everett, Cecelia (deceased), Emma (deceased) and John 
(deceased). The subject of this sketch was reared on his father's farm and 
educated in the common schools, When twenty-one years of age he located 
in Kent and embarked in th-e manufacture of brick, in which he was engaged 



684 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : 

for seven years. In 1881 he entered the furniture business with L. C. 
Reed, which partnership is existing at present. He was married December 1, 
1869, to Belle E. , daughter of Samuel and Rachel (Ward) Caris, of Roots- 
town, by whom he has one child — Amy I. Mr, Herriff enlisted in 1865 in 
Company H, One Hundred and Eiglity- fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and 
was honorably discharged at the close of the war. He is an active member of 
the I. O. O. F. and G. A. R. In politics he is a Democrat. 

GEORGE HILDERHOF, retail liquor dealer, Kent, was born in Baden, 
Germany, April 23, 1839, son of George and Mary (Hardle) Hilderhof, who 
came to America in 1854 and located in Randolph Township, this county, 
where they lived until 1860, then removed to Ravenna. George Hilderhof, 
Sr., was a gardener, an occupation he followed until his death. They had 
seven children: Margaret, deceased; Lena; Henry (first), deceased; George; 
Henry (second); Susan, and Katy, deceased. Our subject when fifteen years 
of age learned the tanner's trade, which he followed up to 1874, when he 
embarked in the liquor business in Ravenna, and in 1879 located in Kent, 
where he has been similarly engaged up to the present time. He was married 
June 3, 1862, to Mary Dawson, of Ravenna, by whom he has eight children: 
George, Henry, Nelly, Walter, Mary, Alexander B. , Augusta and Minnie. Mr. 
Hilderhof is a member of the German Reformed Church ; is a member of the 
I. O. O. F. In politics he is a stanch Democrat. 

ALONZO JOHNSON, farmer and butcher, Kent, was born in Shalersville 
Township, this county, May 25, 1835, son of Ebenezer and Annis (Stoddard) 
Johnson, natives of Vermont and New Hampshire respectively, the latter born 
April 8, 1811. His paternal grandfather, Sylvester Johnson, was a farmer of Rut- 
land, Vt., and his maternal grandfather, Stoddard, a native of New Hampshire, 
settled in Freedom Township in 1834, afterward removed to Iowa and died there. 
The parents of our subject settled in Stowe Tov/nship in 1834, and in 1835 
located in Shalersville Township, this county, where they purchased an eighty- 
acre tract of heavily timbered land which they cleared and improved, and 
where they lived until the death of the father m 1850, in his forty-second year. 
They had seven children: Alonzo, Lucinda (deceased), Emeline (Mrs. Will- 
ard Seward), Sylvester, Leander, Silas (died in the army during the late war) 
and Eben. The mother next married Rufus Newton, of Franklin Township, 
this county, in 1857. He died in 1862 and she moved to Daviess County, 
Mo., in 1869, and subsequently married William Hughes, who died in 1879, 
and his widow returned to Ohio in 1880, and is now residing in Kent. Our 
subject was reared in Shalersville Township, this county, and was educated in 
the common schools. He resided in Shalersville Township until 1863, when 
he removed to Kent, Ohio, and embarked in the grocery business, in which he 
was engaged two years. He then built the hotel known as the " Collins House," 
which he conducted for three years, and during that time opened a meat 
market, which he carried on from 1866 to March 30, 1885, when he retired 
from that business. He is also engaged in farming, now owning three farms 
in Franklin Township, this county, in company with his two eldest sons, liv- 
ing on the farm formerly occupied by Warren Burt. Mr. Johnson was mar- 
ried in November, 1855, to Mary J., daughter of William and Lavina Cook, of 
Franklin Township, this county, by whom he had twelve children, nine now 
living: Willard, Perry, Emma (Mrs. Henry Barker), Albert, Ora, Nella, 
Clayton, Cora and Selah. Mr. Johnson is a representative citizen of the 
township. In politics he is a Democi'at. 

HARLEY JUDSON, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Mantua Township, 
this county, February 28, 1815; son of Samuel and Lucy (Moss) Judson. His 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 685 

father, with two brothers, Gersham and Enoch, came to Mantua from Hart- 
ford, Conn., about 1800, and here cleared and improved a farm. In a few 
years Gersham and Enoch sold out and went West, while Samuel remained. 
The latter was twice married, his first wife being a Miss Atwater, sister of 
Judge Atwater, early settlers of Mantua Township, by whom he had five chil- 
dren: Alma (Mrs. Enos Ford), Alvin (deceased), EJly (deceased), Elijah 
(deceased) and Cyrus (deceased). His second wife was Lucy Moss, of Hart- 
ford, Conn., by whom he had four children: Harley, Sally (Mrs. T. Yaughn), 
Lucy (Mrs. James McElroy) and Mary (deceased). Samuel Judson resided in 
Mantua Township until 1821, then removed to Hiram Township, where he 
lived until his death. The subject of this sketch was reared in Mantua and 
Hiram Townships, his education being received in the district schools. After 
he became of age he worked on a farm by the month for two years, then on 
his father's farm for seven years, after which he purchased a farm of sixty 
acres, which he kept only one year. In 1848 he purchased the farm in Frank- 
lin Township where he now resides. Mr. Judson's first wife was Chloe, 
daughter of Horace Loomis, of Charlestown Township, by whom he had three 
children: Julia (Mrs. Darwin Furry), Hannah (Mrs. Byron Ferry) and Henry 

D. His present wife is Almira, daughter of Noah and Hannah (Shaw) 
Lemoin, of Stowe, Summit Co., Ohio, by whom he has two children: Samuel 

E. and Barton H. Mr. Judson is a representative farmer of Franklin Town- 
ship. In politics he is a Democrat. 

ZENAS KENT was born in Middletown, Conn., July 12, 1786. He came 
of good old Puritan stock, a nobility of descent which rests its claim upon a 
robust manhood and hardy virtue. His father was a carpenter and joiner by 
trade, and carried a musket in the war for American independence. 

When Zen as Kent was a boy, even New England had made but a begin- 
ning iu the development of the common school system, and though he made 
the best of his opportunities — exhausting the facilities of the country school 
of that time and place— his early advantages were very limited, as compared 
to the common-school privileges enjoyed by the youth of to-day. Mr. Kent 
has left at least one monument of the methodical perseverance with which he 
addressed himself to every task. A copy of Adam's Arithmetic, published in 
1802, which Mr. Kent used at school, is now in possession of his son Marvin. 
It is a well-thumbed book, now yellow with age, and a plodding student has 
left his impress on every page; indeed, he has left considerable additions to 
the original text. The publisher had had the forethought to bind numerous 
blank pages with his letter- press, to stand the pupil instead of the slate, and 
to remain a record of his industry. On these leaves young Kent carefully 
worked out and proved every example in the book. Here was a combination 
of excellent traits — application, method, thoroughness — in which the boy well 
foreshadowed the man. He entered his work on the leaves of the book of his 
life, and he left not a blank page in it all. In selecting a pursuit in life 
Zenas Kent chose the trade of his father and to make himself master of it. 

By the time he reached his twenty-fifth year young Zenas Kent was united in 
marriage with Pamelia Lewis, a native of Farmington, Conn., a young woman 
of most excellent traits, and withal a fitting helpmeet for him. Her father, 
like the elder Kent, was a veteran of 1776, and a carpenter and joiner by 
vocation. The two young people joined their honest hands and humble for- 
tunes for the battle with the world. In 1812 Zenas accompanied his father's 
family to the far West. The family loeatpd in Mantua, Ohio, where the elder 
Kent died at an advanced age. Zenas had left his young wife in (Connecticut 
while he went prospecting in the Western wilds, and as soon as he had chosen 



686 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : 

a place for his home he returned for his wife. Together they set out for the 
tedious journey to the West, and arriving in Ohio, settled in Hudson, then a 
township of Portage County. This was a fortunate selection for Mr. Kent. 
Here he met Capt. Heman Oviatt, to whose friendship it was his pleasure to 
acknowledge himself indebted for many kind offices. Here he built a tannery 
for Oweti Brown, father of John Brown, of Ossawatomie fame. Mr. Kent 
taught school in the winter while he remained in Hudson. His friend, Capt. 
Oviatt, impressed by Mr. Kent's upright walk and industrious habits, was dis- 
posed to do him a good turn, and help him to start fairly in the world. Con- 
ferences led to conclusions, and in the summer of 1815 the firm of Oviatt & 
Kent was formed, to conduct a typical pioneer store, in Ravenna. Thither 
Mr. Kent went to erect a building before the firm would begin business. The 
site chosen was that upon which the Second National Bank now stands. With 
his saw and plane and hammer Mr. Kent helped to put up the wooden build- 
ing which was to serve for store and dwelling. This building was subsequently 
moved to the south side of Main Street, in Little's Block. After the firm of 
Oviatt & Kent had been in successful operation for several years Mr. Kent was 
able to refund the money advanced by Mr. Oviatt, and the firm dissolved, leav- 
ing the junior partner in sole control of the business. 

In 1826, while managing his growing business, Mr. Kent entered into a 
contract to erect the court house, which still stands in Ravenna, one of the 
most substantial buildings of its kind in the State. In its early days it was 
looked upon as a wonder in architectural art. From 1831 to 1850 Mr. Kent 
was senior partner in the firm of Kent & Brewster, which did a profitable 
trade in Hudson. In the meantime Mr. Kent was accumulating a store of the 
world's goods, and making investments where there was fair prospect of good 
returns. In 1832 he joined David Ladd in the purchase of a tract of land, 
embracing between 500 and 600 acres, in the township of Franklin, now the 
village of Kent. This tract embraced the water-power of the Cuyahoga River 
at that place. The connection of Mx*. Ladd with this property was short, Mr. 
Kent soon becoming sole proprietor. In the year of the purchase he erected 
Kent's Floiiring Mill, the product of which has been held in high repute for 
more than the third of a century. The mill produced the first flour shipped 
from northern Ohio to Cleveland, going by way of the Ohio Canal. 

Having dissolved business connections with Mr. Ladd, Mr. Kent made 
arrangements with John Brown to carry on the tanning business in an estab- 
lishment already under way. In 1836 he sold his large tract to the Franklin 
Land Company, which afterward became the Franklin Silk Company. In 
1849 the Franklin Bank, of Portage County, was established, and Mr. Kent 
was chosen its President. This important post he held until 1864, when the 
Franklin Bank gave place to the Kent National Bank, of which he was also 
made President, holding the position at the time of his death. 

In 1850 he began the erection of a cotton factory and a private residence 
in Franklin, where his interests had centered. Thither he removed, on the 
completion of his dwelling-house, in 1851. In the spring of 1853 he was 
elected Treasurer of the Atlantic & Great Western Railroad Company, tilling 
the position efficiently for one year. In April, 1860, he moved into an elegant 
mansion which he had built on Euclid Avenue, Cleveland. While on a visit 
to Kent on the 21st of October, 1864, death took from him the partner of his 
early toils and of his years of ease. Thus bereft, he longed for quiet and 
repose, and in the following month he returned to Franklin (the name of 
which had been changed to Kent) to pass the remainder of his days. 

Mr. Kent's business career was that of an industrious plodder, who gained 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 687 

success by deserving it. He was possessed of a great fund of solid common 
sense, to which it had pleased God to add an indomitable will, native business 
tact, energy that never flagged, and, above all, an unyielding integrity, which 
gained him the confidence of all with whom he had relations. He was a cau- 
tious, methodical business man, not given to speculation, watchful of little 
things, and thrifty. An instance will show how dearly he held his integrity 
and the good opinion of his fellows. While President of the banking depart- 
ment of the Franklin Silk Company he required to be placed in his hands the 
means to redeem the company's issues, remarking that he would put his name 
upon no paper without the power to protect it from dishonor. The arrange- 
ment was effected. Notwithstanding the disastrous termination of the silk 
company, thanks to Mr. Kent's honor and forethought, its paper was all 
redeemed at face value. 

His life-record was made up of deeds that reflect luster on his memory, 
and mark him as one of the pioneer noblemen of the West. In personal 
appearance Zenas Kent was tall of stature, erect and graceful of carriage, dig- 
nified of mien. Little given to society, he was, nevertheless, affable and 
agreeable in all of his relations. Though fair and equitable dealing made 
him popular as a tradesman, his retiring nature forbade many intimate friend- 
ships. While malice did not enter into his heart, the very firmness of his 
character made him quick to resent an abuse of his confidence. Beneath a 
dignified exterior, bordering at times upon austerity, he wore a warm and sym- 
pathetic heart. He held a kind act in tender remembrance, and the few 
friendships he formed remained unbroken to the end of his days. His tastes 
were simple and his habits the most correct. He never used tobacco or stimu- 
lants of any kind, and for thirty years did not have an hour's sickness. 

Mr. Kent was blessed with a family of thirteen children, nine of whom 
survive him. These he lived to see arrive at maturity, all occupying positions 
of prominence and influence in their respective homes. The surviving chil- 
dren are Mrs. Harriet Clapp, of New York City; Henry A., Edward and 
George L., of Brooklyn, N. Y. ; Marvin, Charles H. and Mrs. Amelia L. 
Shively, of Kent, Ohio; Mrs. Frances E. W^ells, of Brownsville, Penn., and 
Mrs. Emily K., wife of R. B. Dennis, Esq., of Cleveland, Ohio. Of the four 
children deceased, Mrs. Eliza A. Poag died in Brooklyn July 4, 1864; three — 
Louisa, Amelia and an unnamed infant — lie in Ravenna Cemetery. Zenas 
Kent died suddenly, at his residence in Kent, October 4, 1865, in the 
eightieth year of his age. His remains were interred in Woodland Cemetery, 
Cleveland's beautiful city of the dead. In a lovely spot, removed from the 
hurly-burly of a busy world, under the shade of the cypress and willow, by 
the side of the wife of his bosom, sleeps all that is left to earth of a man who 
fought the battle of life bravely, and left a good name — the best of all heir- 
looms. 

MARVIN KENT, projector and ex-President of the Atlantic & Great 
Western Railroad (now New York, Pennsylvania, & Ohio Railroad), was born 
at Ravenna, Portage Co., Ohio, September 21, 1816. His father, Zenas Kent, 
was a joiner and carpenter by trade, who, when a young man, made the 
acquaintance of Capt. Heman Oviatt. He discovered in Mr. Kent business 
qualifications of a very high order, and in 1815 he induced him to engage in 
mercantile business at Ravenna. The executive and financial ability which 
Mr. Kent displayed, coupled with enterprise and methodical management of 
his affairs, soon placed him in the front rank among the repiitable and success- 
ful business men of northern Ohio. 

It was in his father's store that young Marvin Kent received his first and 



688 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

most valuable instruction in correct business methods and habits. Up to the age 
of nineteen his time was divided between his father's store and the schoolroom 
wherein he combined, in the acquirement of a knowledge of books, a practical 
knowledge of business and dealings with men. He received such education as was 
afforded at Tallmadge Academy, under the instruction of E. T. Sturtevant, A. M., 
Principal, and Claridon Academy, under the instruction of Rev. Sherman B. Can- 
tield. In his nineteenth year his father entrusted him with the purchase of his 
spring stock of goods, and for this purpose he visited Philadelphia and New York, 
with special instructions to buy on his own judgment, and to disregard the 
advice tendered by others, relative to the investments had in contemplation. 
His father was pleased with his purchases and the business sagacity displayed 
by his son. The year following his becoming of age, Marvin became associ- 
ated with his father in mercantile business, at Franklin Mills, Ohio (now Kent), 
but he soon relinquished this, by reason of the precarious condition of his 
health, and assumed the management of a tannery, in a building erected by his 
father and Capt. John Brown (of Harper's Ferry notoriety). While thus 
engaged he was married to Maria, daughter of the late Col. William Stewart. 
He conducted the tannery for some time, with success, and in 1844 returned to 
mercantile pursuits, becoming, at the same time, largely interested in the manu- 
facture of flour. In the latter business he continued without interruption, for 
about twenty years. 

In 1850 in company with others he engaged in the manufacture of window- 
glass, at Franklin Mills, and erected and placed in successful operation 
extensive works. It was during the same year that he entered upon the most 
imporant enterprise of his life, and which secured to him a business reputation 
coextensive with the inauguration and completion of a gi'eat public transpor- 
tation route between the East and the West. He devised, planned and pro- 
jected, in 1850, the Atlantic & Great Western Railroad, designed to connect 
the Erie with the Ohio & Mississippi Railroad, thus forming a grand trunk 
line, with uniform gauge throughout, from New York to St. Louis. In 1851 
the necessary legislation was procured, but in order to secure the charter he 
was obliged to subscribe for the full amount of stock required by law for the 
organization of the company, as well as to indemnify some of the first Board of 
Directors for the payment of one share subscribed by each to render them eligible 
for election, which fact furnishes a significant illustration of the want of faith in 
the success of an undertaking of that magnitude at that time. The organization 
of the new company was completed, and Mr. Kent made its first President. 
The position he filled with a success characteristic of his great business tact, 
energy, and ability, until the final completion of the road in 1864, save an 
interval of three years. On the 21st of June, of that year, he had the proud 
satisfaction of looking back over many years of unremitting labor and anxiety 
at last crowned with success, and also of driving home the last spike in the last 
rail. In his maiden speech on that occasion, he referred to the fact that on 
the fourth day of July, A. D. 1853. he broke ground for the new road, by 
I'emoving the first shovelful of earth with his own hands. There were none 
then to withhold from Mr. Kent a most generous compliment for the completion 
of this road, which, uniting the Erie and Ohio & Mississippi Railways, 
formed a grand continental line from New York to St. Louis. The construc- 
tion of this road encountered, perhaps, more obstacles and greater opposition 
than any other in the country. Yet Mr. Kent showed himself equal to any 
and every emergency, and with heroic faith and one purpose, he made success 
possible and victory a verity. The Portage County Democrat, of June 3, 1863, 
contained this truthful tribute: 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 689 

" The location of the shops at Franklin Mills is doubtless due to the position 
and influence of Marvin Kent, Esq. , the President of the road, who resides at that 
point. If any man ought to be gratified and benefitted by the location of the shops 
it is President Kent. He was not only the early friend of the road, but if we 
are correctly informed, he originated the idea of its construction. In carryino- 
forward this great improvement to its completion, he has toiled and sti'uggled 
for over twelve years amid doubt and discouragement, amid jeers and sneers and 
obloquy. While others hesitated, he stood fast; when the faint-hearted turned 
aside, he persevered with unfaltering nerve and courage; when timid friends 
forsook, he succeeded in raising up other friends, and in attracting capital to 
this great work; and thus, with a patience, a courage, an assiduity, and 
unswerving fidelity to a single aim that reaches the point of real heroism, has 
he held on his way through twelve laborious years of fluctuations, vicissitudes, 
and uncertainties, neglecting or abandoning his private business, pledging or 
imperiling, or at least casting into the hazard of success, his large private for- 
tune, for the benefit of his cherished enterprise. And yet he has labored all 
this time without general appreciation, the select few more intimately associated 
in official relations with him only knowing and appreciating his trials and his 
toils. But it is time the man to whom more than to any other the country is 
indebted for its great and leading road should be understood and appreciated, 
for every man and every community benefited by the construction of this road, 
owes to Marvia Kent a debt of gratitude. He is to be congratulated on the 
success which the intelligence, the ability, and the fixed and resolute purpose 
which he has brought to bear on the enterprise, have accomplished. Who, 
under these circumstances, can grudge to Mr. Kent the location of the exten- 
sive machine-shops in the place of his residence? Who more than he, and what 
community than the one favored by his residence among them can be more 
entitled to the benefit?" 

Upon the successful completion of this road, Mr. Kent substantially retired 
from active business, to the enjoyment of private life. Upon the death of his 
father in 1865, he became his successor as President of the Kent National 
Bank, which position he has held ever since. In October, 1875, he was elected 
State Senator from the Twenty-sixth District of Ohio, and he served his con- 
stituents with credit and ability. Mr. Kent is a gentleman of varied experience 
and of varied business qualifications — equally capable as an engineer or as 
financial manager to conduct a great public work. He has remarkable tenacity 
of purpose, and once resolved as to the value of an enterprise, no ordinary 
obstacle can prevent him from carrying it out. He is a man of liberal views 
and generous impulses, and has in a great variety of ways aided in advancing 
the material welfare of those among whom he lives. He has been a generous 
promoter of every business enterprise in the city of Kent, which bears his 
name. There are enduring monuments of his public spirit on every hand in 
the community in which he lives, such as public and private edifices, business 
blocks, mills and factories, and about them all there is an evidence of per- 
manency and durability, of exactness in details, and adaptability to the uses 
designed. 

As an evidence that Mr. Kent has been disposed to serve himself last, he 
has just completed one of the most elegant and palatial private residences m 
northern Ohio. Within and without there are evidences of a cultured taste 
in art and adornment, but never at the expense of utility and the every-day 
uses of domestic life. Mr. Kent has in every respect been a successful man, and 
prominent among the secrets of that success are untiring energy, methodical 
methods of work, and strict integrity. 



690 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

CHARLES H. KENT, merchant, Kent, was born in Ravenna, this county, 
August 12, 1818, son of Zenas and Pamelia (Lewis) Kent. He was reared in 
Ravenna until eighteen years of age, when he received a common school edu- 
cation, after which he attended the Canandaigua Academy, at Canandaigua, 
N. Y., for two years. In 1889 he embarked in mercantile business at Franklin 
Mills (now Kent), with Clapp & Spellman, under firm name of Clapp, Spell- 
man & Kent. In 1841 the firm divided up their stock, and our subject suc- 
ceeded to the business. In 1845 Mr. Kent and his brother Marvin were asso- 
ciated in business in Franklin, at the same time they purchased the goods of 
their father, Zenas Kent, at Ravenna, and continued the business there. In 
1850 Mr. Kent, in connection with two others, built a factory for the manu- 
facture of window glass, with which he was identified for several years. Pre- 
vious to 1860 he was connected in business with Kent, Wells & Co., and Kent, 
Grinnell & Co. In 1860 he embarked in dry goods business, in which he 
has been engaged to the present time. Mr. Kent was married, January 14, 
1841, to Mary E., daughter of Rev. Stephen W. Burrett, of Franklin, by whom 
he has: one child — Charles B. Mr. Kent is the oldest established merchant in 
Kent, and one of its representative business men. In politics he is a Repub- 
lican. He has served as Mayor of Kent for four years. 

WILLIAM A. LEE, proprietor of restaurant, and dealer in wines, liquors, 
etc., Kent, was born in Ithaca, N. Y,, March 29, 1829; a son of Daniel and 
Mary (Davenport) Lee, who settled in Peru, Huron Co., Ohio, in 1834; former 
a wagon maker by trade, at which he worked in Peru until his death. Our 
subject was reared in Huron County from five years of age. He was married, 
April 6, 1855, to Martha, daughter of William Moore, of Plymouth, Richland 
Co., Ohio, by whom he has four children: Ida, wife of Henry Struckrad; 
Flora, wife of J. Otis Smith; Hattie, and Bertie, wife of F. M. Townsend. Mr. 
Lee learned the machinist's trade in New Haven, where he remained until 1861, 
and was then employed in the railroad shops at Norwalk until 1865. He then 
came to Kent, this county, and worked in the railroad shops for two years, 
when he opened a billiard room, which he conducted for one year, after which 
he moved to Warren, and engaged in the same business for four years. He 
subsequently returned to Kent and embarked in the restaurant and saloon 
business, which he has continued in to the present time. On November 1, 1884, 
he supplied a long-felt want by opening a first-class restaurant in the Carver 
Block, which is conducted in the metropolitan style. He is a pushing, ener- 
getic man, and his experience in the business, taken in connection with his 
natural fitness for this pursuit, will no doubt prove his new venture a success. 
In politics he is a Democrat. 

BYRON A. LONGCOY, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Franklin Town- 
ship, this county, June 5, 1854, son of David and Abby (Woodard) Longcoy. 
His father, a native of New York, born May 30, 1808, son of Anthony and 
Ann (Thompson) Longcoy, settled in Franklin Township, this conaty, in 1830, 
and worked in David L. Ladd's linseed oil-mills for several years. He after- 
ward manufactured brick, and furnished this material for the construction of 
the Earl Block, and a large portion of those used in what is now known as the 
Carver Block. He was married, May 4, 1834, to Abby, daughter of Joshua 
and Rebecca (W^oodin) Woodard, early settlers of Ravenna Township, this 
county, and later of Kent, by whom he had nine children: Anna (deceased), 
Victoria (deceased), Nettie (wife of Samuel Putnam), Maretta, Francis and 
Frank (twins), Miraett, Ralph (deceased) and Byron A. In 1853 David Long- 
coy located on the farm now occupied by our subject, where he resided until 
his death, August 5, 1873. During the last eight years of his life he was 




#, Af ^, 




FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 693 

engaged in butchering and had a market in Kent. Our subject was married, 
April 15, 1875, to Dolly A., daughter of Dr. J. S. and Delia (Rockwell) 
Sweeny, of Kent, this county, by whom he has two children: Bertha and 
David. Mr. Longcoy is a member of the Congregational Church, Mrs. Long- 
coy of the Episcopal denomination. In politics he is a Prohibitionist. 

CORNELIUS C. MEACHAM, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Litchfield, 
Litchfield Co., Conn., January 29, 1814, son of Seth and Sally (Weston) 
Meacham, who settled in Tallmadge (now Summit County) in 1816, where they 
lived for many years. Mrs. Seth Meacham died in 1872 in her eightieth year, 
and in the spring of 187-4 Seth Meacham removed to Franklin Township, this 
county, where he died in 1876, at the age of eighty-fom'. They had ten chil- 
dren: Fanny (deceased), Cornelius C, Esther (deceased), Cordelia (deceased), 
Esther second (Mrs. James McCormick), Samuel, Flora (deceased), Sally 
(deceased), Lois (deceased) and Seth. Our subject was reared in Tallmadge, 
where he lived until twenty-five years of age. He was married, February 1, 
1839, to Rebecca D., daughter of James McCormick, of Armstrong County, 
Penn. , by whom he had two children: Clara and Sarah, both deceased. In 
1841 Mr. Meacham settled in Brimfield Township, this county, where he lived 
seven years, then removed to Suffield Township, and resided there seven years. 
In 1855 he located in Franklin Township, and for the past fifteen yeai's has 
been a resident of Kent. In polities Mr. Meacham is a Republican. 

HIRAM MERRELL, retired, Kent, was born in what is now Wyoming 
County, N. Y., May 29, 1818, son of Noah and Clara (Pearsons) Merrell, 
who settled in Franklin Township, this county, in 1837, renting a house of 
Joseph Stratton, on which they lived two years, then buying a farm of ten acres 
in the north part of the township, where they lived and died. Noah Merrell 
was a native of Connecticut, his wife of Holland. They reared a family of ten 
children: Althea (deceased), Norman, Oral (deceased), Hiram, Louisa (Mrs. 
Darius Davis), Freedom, Roxy,- Noah, Cass and Jane (deceased). The subject 
of this sketch when twenty years of age worked on a farm by the month one 
summer, and the following year he engaged in the manufacture of brooms, 
which business he followed for eight years, acquiring a farm of eighty acres, 
now owned by A. O. Haymaker, a part of which he cleared and improved, and 
where he resided ten years. In 1853 he purchased a large farm in Rootstown 
Township, where he resided one year, when he returned to Franklin, and since 
then he has owned several farms, having speculated considerably in farm prop- 
erty, and has accumulated a competency. Mr. Merrell was married, February 
24, 1842, to Sarah, daughter of Frederick Williard, an early settler of Franklin 
Township, this county, by whom he has had seven children, four of whom are 
now living: Angeline (Mrs. Byron Fessenden), Wallace, Earl and Frederick, 
Our subject moved to Kent in 1868, where he has since resided, one of its rep- 
resentative citizens. In politics he is a Republican. 

N. J. A. IVIINICH, editor and proprietor of Kent Saturday Bulletin, was 
born in Columbia, Lancaster Co., Penn., October 2, 1849; son of Henry G- 
and Ann C. (Albright) Minich. His father was a stock-dealer and son of 
Jacob Minich, a distiller of Landisville, Penn., of German descent. His 
maternal grandfather was Anthony Albright, a native of Philadelphia, and the 
publisher of the Lancasterian at Lancaster, Penn., son of John Albright, who 
published the first paper in the city of Lancaster. Our subject was reared in 
Columbia up to twenty-three years of age, and is a graduate of the Columbia 
Classical Institute. In 1868 he entered the oflice of the Columbia Sjyy. where 
he served an apprenticeship of three years at the case. In 1872 he went to 
Akron, Ohio, and worked in the job department of the Akron Daily Beacon as 



694 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

a journeyman, and was for some time connected with the editorial department 
of the same paper. In 1874 he with others organized the Argus Printing 
Company, of which he was President, and founded the Akron Daily Argus, 
with which he was connected up to May, 1876, when he i-emoved to Kent and 
purchased the Kent Bulletin, which at the time of his purchase had sus- 
pended publication for live weeks. At that time it was a six-column folio, but 
has since been enlarged to a six-column quarto. By the management of Mr. 
Minich it has been made a grand success, and with one exception has the 
largest circulation in this county. Since locating in Kent, Mr. Minich has 
been identified with nearly every enterprise oE a public nature that tended 
toward the improvement of the city, many of which originated in the columns 
of the Bulletin. He was married August 3, 1875, to Lottie E., daughter of 
Henry and Emily (Hodges) McMasters,. of Akron, Ohio, by whom he has one 
child — Henry S. In politics Mr. Minich is a Republican. His paper is inde- 
pendent in all things. 

VALORUS NEEDHAM, retired farmer, Kent, was born in what is now 
Wales, Hampden Co., Mass., March 29, 1806; son of Alvin and Abigail (Wal- 
bridge) Needham, who were the parents of five children: Alfred, Erasmus 
(deceased), Valorus, Minerva (deceased) and Rebecca (deceased). Mr. and 
Mrs. Needham settled in Brimfield Township, this county, in 1837; located on 
the farm, a part of which they improved, now owned and occupied by I. G. 
Wise, and there lived and died. Our subject settled in Brimfield in the fall 
of 1837. He was a carpenter by trade, at which he worked up to 1844, when 
he settled on the farm (now occupied by his son-in-law, S. B. Cuthbert, ) which 
he improved and lived on until 1865, when he moved to Kent, where he still 
resides. He has been twice married; on first occasion, in 1843, to Mary L. , 
daughter of Henry and Chloe (Chapman) Smith, of Chenango County, N. Y. 
The issue of this union was six children: Henry (deceased), Hamar (deceased), 
Minerva (wife of S. B. Cuthbert), Ellen (deceased), Ann (wife of L. M. 
Tracy) and Chloe (deceased). October 19, 1862, Mr. Needham married Mrs. 
Lucia M. Earle, daughter of Abel and Prudence (Lyon) Burt, who came from 
Brimfield, Mass, to Brimfield, this county, in March, 1823. Mr. Needham is 
a representative citizen of Kent. Iii politics he is a Republican. 

HARVEY C. NEWBERRY (deceased) was born in Rootstown Township, 
this county, January 21, 1812; sou of Chauncey and Fanny (Coe) Newberry. 
His father was a native of East Windsor, Conn., and his mother of Granville, 
Mass. They settled in Rootstown Township, this county, about 1810, where 
they lived until 1823, when they removed to Franklin Township and there 
died. They had nine children: Harvey C. (deceased), Cynthia (deceased), 
Frederick (deceased), Oliver H., Stoddard (deceased), Lura, Mary, Oscar (died 
in the late war of the Rebellion) and George (deceased). The subject of this 
sketch was reared in Rootstown Township, this county, until ten years of age, 
when his parents removed to Franklin Township, and here he afterward 
resided. He was first married November 24, 1838, to Sarah Slaughter, 
of Franklin Township, this county, and had two children: William and 
Thomas. April 10, 1846, Mr. Newberry married Flora Raver, also of Frank- 
lin Township, a native of Germany, and by her he had four children: Fanny 
(deceased), Jane (Mrs. A. D. Clark), Byron C. and Frederick. Our subject 
died very suddenly while in conversation with some friends, in Kent, Ohio, 
March 19, 1885. He was elected to the ofSce of County Treasurer in 1859, 
serving one term, and was, previous to his death. Treasurer of the corporation 
of Kent. In politics he was independent. 

FREDERICK NIGHMAN, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in York County, 
Penn., September 5, 1809; son of Adam and Betsey Nighman, who settled in 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 69i 

Franklin Township, this county, about 1806, locating on the farm now owned 
by Mr. Kindice, wlaich they cleared and improved. They had twelve children: 
George (deceased), Clarissa (deceased), Catherine (deceased). John (deceased), 
Margaret (deceased), Henry, Polly (deceased), William (deceased), Emily, 
Frederick, Eliza and David (deceased). Our subject remained with his par- 
ents until twenty-one years of age, and then bought a farm of fifty acres in 
Streetsboro, this county, where he lived four years. He then bought a farm 
of 100 acres in the same township, which he lived on till 1863, then removed 
to the north part of Fi-anklin Township, in 1878 locating on the farm where 
he now resides. He has been twice married. By his first wife, Parmelia Van, 
of Franklin Township, he had seven children: Perry, George (deceased), 
Orrin, Alvin (deceased). Almond, Electa (Mrs. Jesse Nelson) and Laura. Alvin 
died in the service of his country during the late war of the Rebellion. Mr. 
Nighman's present wife (nee Sally Stewart) was born in Stowe Township, 
Portage (now Summit) Co., Ohio. Mr. Nighman has been a resident of thie 
county seventy-eight years, and is one of its representative citizens. In pol- 
itics he is a Democrat, always having voted the Democratic ticket. 

McKENDREE D. NORTON, farmer, P. O. Earlville, was born in Wads- 
worth, Medina Co., Ohio, November 6, 1836; son of Joseph and Jeannette 
(Graham) Norton, who were the parents of six children, of whom four are 
now living: McK. D.; Charles S. ; Angelina, wife of A. J. Powell, and MaxweM 
G. Joseph Norton, a native of Milford, Conn., came to this county in 1834, 
and located in Brimfield Township, where he worked at shoe-making for 
several years. He afterward went to Edinburg and from there to Frank- 
lin, where he now resides. The subject of this sketch was in the late war 
of the Rebellion, enlisting in the Ninth Ohio Independent Battery. He 
served as a private, Corporal and Sergeant, and participated in all the engage- 
ments of the battery. January 19, 1862, they had their first engagement, ai 
Fishing Creek, Ky., and March 22, 1862, they were under fire seven hours, 
and threw 200 shells; August, 1862, they were shut in the Cumberland Gap 
by the enemy for one month, without communication and short of rations. 
The battery participated in many engagements, in which they were always 
victorious. Since the war Mr. Norton has been engaged in farming and has 
resided on his present farm since 187-4. He was married, August 20, 1868, te 
Rachel D., daughter of James D. and Mary R. (Olin) Haymaker, of Franklin, 
by whom he had one child— Nettie (deceased). Mrs. Norton is a member of 
the Universalist Church. Mr. Norton is a Democrat in politics; a member d^. 
the G. A. R. 

PARMELEE FAMILY. The annals of this family heretofore published 
trace their lineage back to the year 1447, to an ancient and noble Belgian fam- 
ily. This noble house flourished for several centuries in a parish of the same 
name located three leagues south of the city of Liege when Belgium wac 
under the dominion of Spain. They were reformers in religious matters an^ 
to escape persecution fled to Holland and afterward settled in England. In 
this volume space will only permit of a record dating back to one, John Par- 
melee, a native of Guildford, England, who with his family and twenty-four 
ether men, presumably also with families, set sail for America in 1639. HVhile 
on shipboard, a few days' sail from Boston, the company entered into the fol- 
lowing covenant or agreement. "We, whose names are hereunder written, 
intending by God's gracious permission to plant ourselves in New England, 
and if it may be in the southern part about Quinnipisack (or New Haven) we 
do faithfully promise each to each for ourselves and families and those that 
belong to us, that we will, the Lord assisting us, set down and join ourselves 



696 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 

together in one entire plantation, and be helpful each to the other in any com- 
mon work, according to every man's ability and as need shall require, and we 
promise not to desert or leave each other on the plantation but with the con- 
sent of the rest of the greater part of the company who have entered into this 
engagement, as for our gathering together in a church way, and the choice of 
officers and members to be joined together in that way we do refer ourselves 
until such time as it please God to settle us in our plantation, in witness 
whereof we do subscribe our hands this 1st day of June, A. D. 1639. — Robert 
Rickell, John Bishop, Francis Bushnell, William Crittenden, William Leete, 
Thomas Joans, John Jurden, Wvi. Stone, John Hoadley, John Stone, Will- 
iam Plam, Richd. Sutiridge, John Housinger, William Dudley, John Parme- 
lee, John Mepham, Thomas Norton, Abraham Crittenden, Francis Chatfield, 
William Noble, Thomas Naish, Henry Kingston, Henry Doude, Thomas Cook, 
Henry Whitfield.'''' They were Presbyterians and the last-named was their 
Minister. This company located at Guilford, Conn. The generations of the 
Parmelee family may be named shortly as follows: Luther H., now a resident 
of Kent, Portage Co., Ohio, was the son of Elisha, the son of Theodore, the 
son of Abram, the son of Abraham, the son of Isaac, the son of John, Jr., the 
son of John Parmelee, who settled at Guilford, Conn., in 1639. John and 
John, Jr., were born in Guildford, England; Isaac was born at Guilford, Conn., 
November 21, 1665; Abraham was born at Guilford, Conn., May 18, 1692; 
Abram was born at Guilford, Conn., April 28, 1717, and was a warm and 
earnest patriot during the Revolutionary war; Theodore was born April 3, 
1751, and served in the same war for about four years as Captain of a com- 
pany of horse on the patriot side, and though he took part in many desperate 
engagements was never wounded. He was a man of extraordinary resolution 
and courage, and once in a hand-to-hand encounter, when completely sur- 
rounded by the enemy, and ordered to surrender, he cut his way through and 
escaped. This same Theodore Parmelee, in company with his brother-in-law, 
David Hudson, Birdseye, Norton and two others, bought the entire township 
of Hudson in Summit County, Ohio, in 1797 or 1798. Elisha Parmelee was 
born at Goshen, Conn., February 16, 1785. In 1807 he made his first trip to 
Ohio to look after a one-half section of land in Hudson To'js^nship, which his 
father had given him. He soon afterward returned to Connecticut, where he 
was married, November 9, 1809, to Roxa Stanley, a daughter of Deacon Jesse 
and Eunice (Bailey) Stanley. The following year he moved to Mt. Morris, N. Y. 
At this place his wife died, January 31, 1813, leaving two children: Myron 
N., born at Goshen, Conn., September 19, 1810 (since deceased) and Luther 
H., born at Mt. Morris, N. Y., August 31, 1812. He was married a second 
time at Mt. Morris, N. Y., October 20, 1813, to Elizabeth M. Satterlee, and to 
this union wei-e born Elisha H., July 21, 1814, died in infancy (August 23, 
1815); Roxa S., born May 27, 1816; Emily E., born July 26, 1819; John F., 
born June, 1821 ; Mary H. , born May 1, 1824. About 1817 he moved to Warsaw, 
N. Y., where he was a merchant, and in 1824 moved to Batavia, N. Y., and 
kept a hotel. In 1832 he came to Ohio and bought a farm in Hudson Town- 
ship, Summit County, where he remained for twelve years, and in 1844 went 
to Louisville, Ky. , but returned the following year to this county and located 
at Franklin Mills (now Kent), where he was a successful merchant for many 
years. He sold out in 1858 and retired from active business. He died Sep- 
tember 4, 1865, at Kinsman, Trumbull Co. , Ohio, at the home of his son- 
in-law, Rev. Thomas Corlett, and was buried in the Kent Cemetery. His 
widow died March 25, 1867, and was interred by his side. Elisha Parmelee 
was a man of marked ability, thoroughly enterprising, and universally 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 697 

respected. During the war of 1S12 he served as Paymaster in the United 
States Army. 

LUTHER H. PARIMELEE, retired merchant, Kent, was born in Mt. Mor- 
ris, Livingston Co., N. Y., August 31, 1812, son of Elishaand Roxa (Stanley) 
Parmelee, natives of Goshen, Litchfield Co., Conn. He was educated in 
Batavia, N. Y. , and came to Hudson, Summit Co. , Ohio, with his parents in 
February, 1832. He worked on his father's farm two years and taught school 
winters, after which he was employed three years as clerk in a store at Copley, 
Ohio. In 1838 he embarked in mercantile trade in Copley, which he con- 
tinued there up to 1845, when he removed to Akron, Ohio, and there resided 
ten years. In 1855 he came to Franklin Mills (now Kent), this county, and 
has since been chiefly engaged in farming. He owns a fine farm of 170 acres 
in Franklin Township. Mr. Parmelee was married, May 14, 1838, to Tamma, 
daughter of Noah and Mary (Stickles) Ingersoll, of Copley, Ohio. By this 
union there were seven children: Helen E., wife of George O. Rice; Walter 
M.; Caroline G., wife of A. L. Ewell; Luther H., deceased; MaryH., wife 
of Henry A. Rea; Frank H., and Roxa S., wife of W. I. Caris. Mr. Parmelee 
is one of the representative citizens of Kent. He has satisfactorily discharged 
the offices of Coroner and Commissioner of Portage County; has been Jus- 
tice of the Peace, and has filled minor official positions in Franklin Towuship. 
He was Cashier of the Kent Savings and Loan Association from 1874 to 1879. 
In politics our subject is a stanch Republican. 

EDWARD A. PARSONS, Kent, Secretary and Treasurer Railway Speed 
Recorder Company, was born in Northampton, Mass., January 25, 1829, son of 
Edward and Clementine (Janes) Parsons, who settled in Brimfield Township, 
this county, in 1831, where they lived until 1868, when they removed to Kent, 
and here the father died, April 4, 1874, aged seventy-seven years. The mother, 
now eighty-two years old, resides with her son-in-law, C. H. Barber. (Her 
father's name was Peleg C. Janes). Their children were six in number: 
Edward A., Timothy G., Harriet J. (deceased), Martha K. (Mrs. George W. 
Crouse, in Akron), William C, in Akron, and Clementine (Mrs. C. H. Bar- 
ber). Edward Parsons (the father) was a native of Northampton, Mass., son 
of Moses Parsons, and Clementine, his wife, was a native of Brimfield, Mass. 
Our subject was reared on his father's farm in Brimfield Township, this 
county, and educated in the common schools. He farmed up to 1863, when 
he removed to Kent and embarked in the lumber business. In 1871 he sold 
his business to his brother and engaged in the produce and shipping interest. 
In 1876 the Railway Speed Recorder Company was formed, of which he has 
since been Secretary and Treasurei*. He was married September 25, 1853, to 
Mary J., daughter of Freeman and Mercy A. (Lincoln) Underwood, formerly 
of Massachusetts, who settled in Brimfield Township in 18_18. They have n© 
children, but an adopted daughter— Effie S. P. (Mrs. J. B. iMiller.) Mr. Par- 
sons has held several offices in Franklin Township, this county. He served as 
County Commissioner from 1874 to 1878, and was the main projector in 
building the fine arch stone bridge over the Cuyahoga River at Kent. In 
politics Mr. Parsons is a Republican. He is a representative business man 
and worthy citizen. 

TIMOTHY G. PARSONS, lumberman, Kent, was born in Brimfield Town- 
ship, this county, September 17, 1832, son of Edward and Clementine (Janes) 
Parsons, who settled in Brimfield Township in 1831 (see sketch of E. A. Par- 
sons). Our subject was reared on his father's farm, educated in the commoa 
schools and Twinsbury Academy. In January, 1853, he went to California, 
where he was engaged in mining and farming up to November, 1859, when he 



698 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

letm-ned to Brimtield. He served in the late war of the Rebellion, enlisting 
in September, 1861, in Company A, Forty-second Ohio Vounteer Infantry, 
Garfield's regiment; served twenty-six months, and received an honorable dis- 
charge. He was then employed as a clerk in the Quartermaster's Department, 
holding that position till the war closed. In September, 1S65, he located in 
E.ent, and engaged in the lumber business with his brother E. A. Parsons up 
to 1870, when he purchased his brother's interest, and carries on the business 
himself. In addition to this, he runs a large planing-mill, the only establish- 
ment of the kind in the place. Mr. Parsons was married, December 12, 1866, 
to Eleanor M. , daughter of Henry and Susan (Hall) Sawyer, of Brimfield, by 
whom he has three children living: Edward S. , John T. and Dwight L. Mr. 
Parsons is a F. & A. M. In politics he is a Kepublican. He is known in 
Kent as an active, honest and successful business man, one who takes a lively 
interest in all affairs promotive of the town's welfare. 

FREDERICK E. ROISTER, photographer, Kent, was born in Wetzlar, 
Ehenish Prussia, May 9. 1857, and is a son of John and Elizabeth (Shaeffer) 
Poister. His father, after serving his time in the German Army in the Twen- 
ty-ninth Regiment Infantry at Koblenz, settled in the city of Wetzlar, where 
he held a position in the Provincial Court. On the 3d of June, 1861, our sub- 
ject's mother died in that city, and the following year his father resigned his 
position and immigrated to America, where he arrived in December, 1862, and 
located in Gallon, Ohio, where he still resides, and where Frederick E. was 
reared and educated. In the spring of 1874 our subject entei'ed the photo- 
graph gallery of L. M. Reck, of that place, where he served an apprenticeship 
®f live years. He then went to Norwalk, Ohio, where he acted as operator in 
^be galleries of George Butt and G.W. Edmundson for two years. In Febru- 
ary, 1882, he located in Kent and embarked m business for himself. He is a 
photographer and artist not only in name, but in education, one who under- 
stands the art principles of lighting and posing his subjects, wherein lie the 
true merits of a photographic portrait. 

ABRAHAM PRATT, farmer, P. O. Eadville, was born in Marion, Wayne 
Co.jN.Y,, June 28, 1823, son of Darius and Phebe (Baker) Pratt, the former of 
whom was born June 25, 1780, and the latter February 5, 1784. They were 
the parents of twelve children: Asahel, Zina, Harriet, Lorinda, Presson, James, 
Sidney, Elizabeth, Phebe, Darius, Abraham and Mary (twins). All are now 
deceased but Abraham, who is the only member of the family now living. In 
1834 Darius Pratt settled on the farm now owned by Marius Heighton, in 
Franklin Township, this county, but in 1842 removed to the farm where he 
died in 1842, aged sixty-two years. His widow died February 25, 1858, aged 
seventy-four years. Abraham Pratt, paternal grandfather of our subject, was 
a native of New England, and his maternal grandfather, James Baker, a native 
of Marion, N. Y. Our subject was reared in Franklin Township, this county, 
from eleven years of age, and assisted his father to clear the farm. He was 
married, June 9, 1837, to Marilla, daughter of Arvin and Betsey (Bennett) 
Olin, who settled in Franklin Township in 1834. By this union there were 
the following children: Francis B. (deceased), Mary E. (wife of Perry Will- 
iard), James A., Diantha M. (deceased wife of Emmet Barber), Emma (wife of 
Almon Cackler), Almira R., Ransom O., Wilson and Willis (twins), the latter 
deceased, and Charles M. (deceased). Mr. Pratt in 1845 went to Michigan, 
where he lived one year, then removed to Indiana, where he resided eight 
years, and finally returned to Franklin Township, this county, purchasing his 
present farm, on which he has since resided. He is one of Franklin Town- 
ship's repx'esentative men. In politics he is a Democrat. 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 699 

JAMES H. REED, veterinary surgeon, Kent, was born in Boston, Summit 
Co., Ohio, August 12, 1815, son of James and Catherine (Stough) Reed, natives 
of New Joibey and Germany respectively, and who settled in Boston Town- 
ship, Summit County, about 1810. James Reed, who was a millwright, also 
a carpenter and joiner by trade, was a soldier in the war of 1812, being "out" 
two years, for which he drew a pension and land warrant, and on his return 
settled in Ravenna Township in 1816. He had nine children: Robert, James 
H. , George, Peter, John, Calvin, Orrin (deceased), Melinda (Mrs. Spencer 
Smith), Irena (Mrs. Burt A. Smith). Our subject served an apprenticeship at 
cabinet-making in Medina until he was nineteen years of age, when he returned 
to Ravenna and worked at his trade one year. In 1837 he located and partly 
cleared the farm he now owns in the northeast part of Franklin Township, 
this county. He has been a veterinary surgeon upward of forty years. He was 
married, August 13, 1835, to Tussey Scranton, daughter of Joseph Scranton, 
of Franklin Township, this county, by whom he has ten children, seven now 
living: Lawrence, Levi, Lucy (Mrs. Luther Johnson), Paulina (Mrs. Fred 
Myers), Martha (Mrs. C. A. Ferguson), Amelia (Mrs. Frank Brown) and 
Elber. Mr. Reed located in Kent in 1876, where he has since resided, prin- 
cipally engaged in the practice of his profession. He has held several offices 
in the township with credit to himself and to the satisfaction of the people. 
In politics he is a Republican. 

LEVI REED, liveryman, Kent, was born in Franklin Township, this 
county, September 8, 1842; son of James H. and Thirza (Scranton) Reed, who 
were among the early settlers of the township. He was reared on a farm and 
educated in the common schools and the Oberlin Commercial College. After 
he became of age he worked on a farm by thel month for two years, and in 
1864 enlisted in Company I, One Hundred and Eighty -eighth Ohio Volunteer 
Infantry, and served till the close of the war. He was married, October 3, 
1867, to Clarissa C. , daughter of Joseph B. and Ruth (Olin) Stratton, who set- 
tled in Franklin Township, this county, in 1837, and by this union there were 
live children: Willie, Lorena, Joseph A. (deceased), Leona and Leroy. After 
his marriage Mr. Reed engaged in farming for two years, and in 1869 located 
in Kent. For three years he worked in the railroad shops, after which he 
engaged in the coal business, feed and grocexy store and livery business with 
his brothers Luther A. and L. G. In 1882 Mr. Reed embarked in the livery 
business on his own account, in which he has been profitably engaged till the 
present time. He is a member of the G. A. R. , and both he and wife are 
members of the TJniversalist Church. In politics he is a Republican. 

C. R. REED, of the firm of Carlile & Reed, tinners and plumbers, P. O. 
Kent, was born in Franklin Township, this county, July 20, 1854, son of 
William and Mary E. (Day) Reed, whose family consisted of William, Charles 
(deceased), Charles (second) R., Robert, Nellie, John and Frank. William 
Reed, father of our subject, was born in New Lisbon, Columbiana Co., Ohio, 
May 31, 1823, and was reared on his father's farm. He served an apprentice- 
ship at the carpenter's trade, which has been his occupation ever since. His 
parents were John and Rebecca (Morgan) Reed, who settled in Fraoklin about 
1828, and who were the parents of twelve children, eight of whom grew to 
manhood and womanhood: Reuben (deceased), Sperry, William, Hiram, Ellen 
(wife of M. Hulbert), Rebecca (deceased), Cassa (deceased) and George. John 
Reed was a native of Maryland, a weaver by trade, which he followed for sev- 
eral years after coming to Franklin Mills (now Kent). He then engaged in 
agriculture, clearing and improving a farm on which he lived and died. C. 
R. Reed's maternal grandfather, Jacob Day, was a stone mason by trade, and 



700 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

one of the first settlers of Franklin Township, this county. Our subject was 
reared in his native township, and in 1876 entered the employ of F. F. Car- 
lile, to learn the business of tinner and plumber, and worked as journeyman 
up to 1882, when he became associated with his employer under the firm name 
of Carlile & Reed. He was married. February 12, 1884, to Cora S., daughter of 
Samuel B. and Sarah (Doolittle) Hall, of Kent, Ohio. Mr. Reed is one of 
Kent's enterprising business men and a worthy citizen. 

GEORGE O. RICE, Kent, Ohio, was born in Brandon,Vt., April 22,1819, 
son of Hastings and Nancy A. (Bates) Rice, both of whom were natives of 
Massachusetts, and in later years residents of Brandon, Vt., where they were 
married and lived until death, and where our subject resided till thirty-five 
years of age. In 1850 he removed to Kent, Ohio, where he still resides, and 
for about ten years he carried on the harness trade, then for about ten years 
he was engaged in the general produce business, and for the last ten years he 
has been interested in the real estate and insurance business. Mr. Rice has 
been generally successful, and is possessed of a competency of this world's 
goods. At the age of twenty-one years our subject was married to Miss Joanna 
P., daughter of John H. Lincoln, of Pittsford, Vt., and by this union there 
were seven children, of whom none survive. Mrs. Rice died at Kent, Ohio, 
December 19, 1874, and Mr. Rice then married, June 19, 1877, Miss Helen K 
Parmelee, daughter of Luther H. Parmelee, of Kent. As a citizen Mr. Rice 
is enterprising and public-spirited, and has given his influence and means 
invariably and liberally to everything calculated to benefit the people and town 
in which he resides. He and his wife are members of the Congregational 
Church, in which he has served as Deacon and Sabbath -school Superintendent 
for eighteen years. His politics have been Whig, Abolition, Republican, and 
at this time he has a strong tendency toward Prohibition. Mr. Rice is now, 
and has been for the last eleven years, a Notary Public. He does a large part 
of the real estate and insurance business in Kent. 

GEORGE RISK, Jr., retired, Kent, was born in Stowe, Summit Co., 
Ohio, July 19, 1833, son of George and Isabella (McCauley) Risk, natives of 
Ireland, of Scotch descent, who settled in Stowe Township, Summit Co., Ohio, 
in 1830, and there lived until 1835, when they removed to Brimfield. where 
Mrs. Risk died October 13, 1866. They had eight children: Samuel, George, 
Jr., Sarah J. (Mrs. J. W. Sapp), Eliza '(deceased), Martha (Mrs. R. S. Haz- 
lett), John W., Robert M. and William (latter deceased). Our subject was 
reared on a farm. Owing to rheumatism he has never walked a step since he was 
eight years old, but possessing indomitable will, perseverance and industry, 
he secured an education. For many years he was a huckster, and by economy 
and frugality has gained a competency, and is owner of a double business 
block opposite the depot, from which he derives a good rent. He is a gentle- 
man of pleasing addi-ess; politically a Republican. 

HON. DAVID L. ROCKWELL (deceased) was born in Pierpont, Ashta- 
bula Co., Ohio, October 22. 1813, sou of Harvey Rockwell, a native of Con- 
necticut and a pioneer of Ashtabula County. He was reared in his native 
town, where he received a liberal education for those days, and was a shoe-maker 
by trade. He was married in 1836 to Mary E., daughter of Ephraim Pal- 
miter, of Pierpont. The issue ©f this union was four children: Dorema (wif e 
of Judge U. L. Marvin), David L,, Jr., Charles H. and Orlo S. In 1839 Mr. 
Rockwell settled in Brimfield Township, this county, where he remained one 
year, then removed to Franklin Mills (now Kent), Ohio, where he worked at 
his trade for sevei'al years, and while working on his bench he was elected to 
the Legislature from Portage County, 1848-49. He was engaged in the hotel 




of^n^ue^ /^^(^ 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 703 

and mercantile business in Kent for many years and, 1862-63, was re-elected 
to the Legislature, where he served with credit to himself and to the satisfac- 
tion of his constituents. During the war of the Rebellion our subject was a 
hearty supporter of the Union cause; in politics he was a Republican. Both 
he and his wife were members of the Episcopal Church. He died February 

29, 1868, his widow in June, 1875. 

FREDERICK E. ROCKWELL, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Frank- 
lin Township, this county. May 28, 1833, son of Elijah and Euphemia 
(Austin) Rockwell, who settled in Franklin Township in 1826, locating on the 
farm now occupied by our subject. Elijah Rockwell was a native of Massa- 
chusetts, born October 25, 1795, and died March 29, 1837; his wife was a 
native of Dutchess County, N. Y., born September 21, 1797, and died January 

30, 1881. Mr. Rockwell cleared a part of the old homestead and his sons the 
rest. He had four children: Mary H., Charles H. (in Iowa), Edward J. (was 
mate of steamer " Schuyler " and was drowned in the Mississippi River, June 
6, 1867), and Frederick E. (the subject of this sketch who has always resided on 
the old homestead where he was born and reared). His sister lives with him. 
In politics Mr. Rockwell was formerly a Republican, but of late years has been 
independent. 

LUCIUS E. RODENBAUGH, contractor and builder, Kent, was born in 
Springfield, Summit Co., Ohio, June 3, 1844, son of John and Laura A. 
(Purdy) Rodenbaugh. His father was born September, 1809, in Westmore- 
land County, Penn., son of Peter and Betsey (Hornbecker) Rodenbaugh, who 
settled in Springfield Township in 1816 and reared a family of seven children: 
Polly (deceased), Sally (deceased), John (deceased), William (deceased), Isaac, 
Peter and Eliza. John Rodenbaugh was reared and educated in Springfield, 
Ohio, and was a farmer and auctioneer by occupation. He was married 
November 1, 1832, to Laura A., daughter of Solomon and Nancy (Backus) 
Purdy, formerly of Vermont, who settled in Springfield, Ohio, in 1829. Her 
father was a manufacturer of stone-ware and established the second pottery in 
Springfield. The issue of this marriage was six children, of whom five grew 
to manhood and womanhood: John M., Henry C, Calvin P., Lucius E. and 
Emma R. (wife of J. C. Converse). In 1853 John Rodenbaugh located on a 
farm in Franklin Township, where he remained until his death, October 24, 
1865, being murdered within a half mile of his home, for his money, by two 
men, one of whom (Jack Cooper) was hung for the crime and the other (Joel 
Berry) was sent to State prison for life. He was a man of sterling business 
qualifications; a Democrat in politics. Our subject was reared in Franklin 
Township, this county, from nine years old, and received a common school 
education. He was in the late war of the Rebellion, enlisting August 8, 1862, 
in Company I, One Hundred and Fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He went 
through the Atlanta campaign and was also in the battles of Franklin, Fort 
Fisher, Knoxville and all the engagements the regiment participated in, and 
was wounded at the battles of Dallas, Ga. , and Columbia, Tenn. He was 
honorably discharged June 17, 1865, when he returned to this county and 
located in Ravenna Township, and soon after entered the employ of the Atlan- 
tic & Great Western Railroad, with whom he was engaged for several years. 
In 1870 he embarked in business for himself as a contractor and builder, 
which he has made a success, having all the business he can do. In the spring 
of 1882 he located in Kent, where he still resides. He was married September 
29, 1867, to Flora L., daughter of Ozias and Anna (Knowlton) Buzzell, of 
Ravenna. Mr. Rodenbaugh is a wide-awake, thorough business man. In pol- 
itics he is a stanch Republican. 



704 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

YALE RUSSELL, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Russell, Mass., March 
10, 1802, son of Richard and Sarah (Yale) Russell, natives of Connecticut, of 
English descent. Our subject was reared on the farm until seventeen years 
of age, after which he worked at wagon-making for three years in Chatham, N. 
Y. He then learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed twelve years. In 
1824 he came to Ohio, and settled at Franklin Mills (now Kent), where he 
worked at his trade ten years. The year of his settlement he purchased the 
farm where he now resides and on which he has lived since 1834. He was 
married April 7, 1834, to Lucy, daughter of Joshua and Rebecca (Woodin) 
Woodard, of Kent, by whom he had five children: Cornelia (Mrs. Cornelius 
Latimer), in Westtield, Ohio; Darwin, in Michigan; Wilson H. ; Celestia 
(Mrs. Lemuel Reed) and Sarah, deceased. Mrs. Russell's father served 
through the war of 1812 with the rank of General. Darwin, the eldest son of 
our subject, was in the late war, a member of tbe One Hundred and Twenty- 
eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry; Wilson H., the second son, resides on the old 
homestead farm with his parents. He was married October 6, 1875, to Ella, 
daughter of J. T. King, of Kent, by whom he has two children: Myrtle and 
Lottie. Our subject comes of a long-lived race, his father having lived to be 
upward of seventy-five years, his mother to be ninety-nine years and ten 
months old. Mr. Russell is now eighty-three, and is hale and hearty. He 
and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church in Kent. In 
politics he was formerly a Whig, but has been a stanch supporter of the 
Republican party since its organization. He has filled several offices in the 
township with credit. 

ISAAC RUSSELL, carpenter, Kent, was born in Woodbridge, New Haven 
Co., Conn., February 12, 1810, son of Lemuel and Elizabeth (Hotchkiss) Rus- 
sell. When he was five years of age his parents removed to what is now 
Knox, Albany Co., N. Y., where he resided u.ntil seventeen years of age and 
received a limited education in the common schools. In the fall of 1827 he 
came to Ohio, and located in what is now the village of Kent, where he has 
since resided and where he learned the carpenter and joiner's trade, an occu- 
pation he has followed up to the present time. He has been twice married; 
first, in June, 1835, to Abigail, daughter of Ebenezer Fenton, of Manlius, N. 
Y. The issue of this union was six children, four of whom grew to manhood 
and womanhood: Martha (Mrs. W. H. Palmer), Nelson, Darwood C. 
(deceased) and Frances A. (Mrs. W. H. Cole). Our subject's present wife 
was Mrs. Mary M. Clark, nee Lake, to whom he was married November 9, 1880. 
Mr. Russell has been a resident of what is now the village of Kent for fifty- 
seven years, and has filled several offices in the township and the village of 
Kent. He has been elected to the office of Justice of the Peace for seven 
consecu.tive terms, and was previously elected to serve an unexpired term; was 
also Mayor of Kent one term, and held other minor offices. In politics Mr. 
Russell has been a Republican since the organization of the partv. 

FRANCIS L. SAWYER, Kent, was born in Brimtield Township, this 
county, July 11, 1831, son of Asa and Caroline A. (Lincoln) Sawyer. His 
father was a native of Berlin, Mass., son of Asa and Eunice (Bruce) Sawyer, 
who settled in Brimfield Township, this county, in 1818, where they lived and 
died, and who had nine children: Levi, now in Iowa; Asa, deceased; William, 
deceased; Alvin, deceased; Sophia, deceased; Lucy (Mrs. W. R. Kelso); Mary, 
deceased; Sarah (Mrs. A. J. Shuman), and Luke, deceased. Asa, the father 
of our subject, after his marriage located on the farm in Brimfield Township, 
this county, now occupied by his widow, where he lived until his death. He 
had four children: Francis L. , Mary (deceased), Ellen and Henry. The 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 705 

maternal grandparents of our subject were Dr. Luke and Maiy (Thorndike) 
Lincoln, formerly of Massachusetts and early settlers of Brimfield Township, 
this county, coming in 1820. Our subject was reared in Brimfield Township and 
educated in the common schools and Twinsburg Academy. When twenty-two 
years of age he located in Kent, serving as clerk in the dry goods store of C. 
H. Sanborn & Co. for two years, and in the same capacity for other parties up 
to 1857, when he went to Iowa. In 1858 he returned to Kent and embarked in 
dry goods trade. In 1860 he was elected Auditor of this county, serving one 
term, after which he engaged with the A. & G. W. R. R. Co. for three years; 
also as clerk in the store of W. W. Patton & Co. He was then appointed Post- 
master of Kent, serving two years, when he resigned. He was married in Feb- 
ruary, 1857, to Margaret C, daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth McMeen, of 
Brimfield Township, by whom he has three children living: Nellie M. (Mrs. 
O. S. Rockwell), Willis F. and Carrie. 

AARON M. SHERMAN, physician and surgeon, Kent, was born in Brim- 
field, Hampden Co., Mass., March 24, 1826, fourth son of Capt. Harris and 
Sally (Morgan) Sherman, both of whom were natives of Brimfield, Mass., and 
who had a family of the following children: Lewis M. ; Caleb, deceased; Caroline, 
deceased; Sarah, wife of William R. Mathews, in Sully, Iowa; Aaron M. ; 
Thomas, in Sully, Iowa; Otis S., deceased, and John W. Capt. Harris Sher- 
man came to Ohio in 1831, an'iving in Brimfield Township, Portage County, 
Sunday the 5th of June, that year. He and his wife are now deceased, hav- 
ing lived honored lives for more than four- score years. The genealogy of the 
Sherman family dates back to the early settlement of this county, and were 
honored names in its history. Three brothers emigrated from England to 
America in an early day, one settled in Massachusetts, one in Connecticut, and 
one in Rhode Island. The subject of this sketch belongs to the Massachusetts 
branch. His early life was passed on his father's farm, attending school six 
months in the year until he was sixteen years old, when a few terms at a select 
school fitted him for teaching in a county school. He taught four winters in 
a day school, and singing in the evenings. At the age of twenty-one he com- 
menced the study of medicine at Garrettsville, this county, with Dr. John A. 
Knowlton. He attended two full courses of lectures at the Medical Depart- 
ment of W^estern Reserve College of Cleveland, Ohio, graduating in the 
spring of 1851. On September 26, same yeai', he was married to Miss Hen- 
rietta, eldest daughter of John and Mary (Green) Tabor, of Garrettsville, 
Ohio, who died October 26, 1853. He was again married April 26, 1854, this 
time to Harriet, daughter of Watson I. and Mary (Mcintosh) Gray, of Bed- 
ford, Ohio, by whom he has one son — Harris G., a prominent oculist in Cleve- 
land, Ohio. The Doctor, after graduating, located in Garrettsville, and fol- 
lowed his profession until the spring of 1857, when he moved to Kent and 
embarked in the drug business, but after four years resumed his profession, 
and has since had a large and successful practice. During the war of the 
Rebellion he was Assistant Surgeon in Lincoln General Hospital at Washing- 
ton, D. C. In the fall of 1883 Dr. Sherman was elected to the Sixty-sixth 
General Assembly from Portage County, of which he is at present a member. 
Diiring his first winter he took an active and intelligent part in the general 
legislation, and was among the industrious and prominent members of that 
body. The Doctor has always been an active promoter of every public enter- 
prise in his community. He has frequently served as a member of the School 
Board, and for several years has been the efficient Secretary of the Pioneers' 
Association of Portage and Summit Counties. In 1881 he wrote a history of 
Brimfield Township, dating from its first settlement, which he delivered as a 



706 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

historical address in that township, July 4 of that year. It was published in 
paruphlet form and was the only history of that township written up to that 
date. He is a prominent member of the Masonic fraternity, and for ten years 
held the position of Master of the first lodge in Kent. In politics he is a 
stanch Republican. In religious belief a Universalist. 

GEORGE L. STAUFFER, grocer, Kent, was born in Uniontown, Stark 
County, Ohio, October 26, 1839, son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Myers) Stauflfer, 
the former a native of Maryland, the latter of Ohio. Our subject was reared 
on a farm until twenty years of age, and educated in the Greensburg Academy. 
When twenty-two years of age he went to New York City and entered the 
employ of the Northern Transportation Company, where he remained seven 
years. He then engaged in the grocery business in Jersey City for one year. 
In 1871 he located in Kent and engaged as a clerk in the store of Lute Stauffer. 
In 1878 he embarked in the grocery trade in Kent with George A. Furry, 
under firm name of Stauffer & Fariy, which partnership has existed to the 
present time. Mi*. Stauffer whs married, December 14, 1865, to Eva E., 
daughter of William J. and Lovena (Beach) Sanford, of Connecticut, and who 
came to this county when quite young, then moved to Marion County, residing 
there a few years, then returned to this county, where they have since lived. 
To our subject and wife were born five children: Ida, George J., William S., 
Lucy M. and Robert E. Mr. and Mrs. Stauffer are members of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church. He is an active member of the I. O. O. F. and R. A. ; 
has served as Councilman of Kent one term. In politics he is a Democrat. 

WILLIAM STEVENS, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Franklin Town- 
ship, this county, September 6, 1820; son of Elisha and Margaret (Brown) 
Stevens, who were among the first settlers of Franklin Township, and who 
located on what is now known as the Fulmer farm, taking up 160 acres of 
land in the wilderness and making a small improvement. They were parents 
of eight children: Emily, Marcus, Harriet, Caroline, Mary, Cynthia, Lucius 
and William, all deceased except William. Elisha Stevens, who was a car- 
penter and joiner by trade, died in 1822. His widow subsequently married 
Eben Phelps, of New York, and lived and died in Franklin Township, this 
county. The subject of this sketch was reared on a farm and has always fol- 
lowed agricultural pursuits. He was married February 2, 1840, to Rebecca, 
daughter of John Bair, of Stark County, Ohio, by whom he bad three chil- 
dren: Francis (deceased), Frank W., and Fred H. , now in Colorado. Mr. 
Stevens gave his sons good educational advantages, and both are filling excel- 
lent positions. Since his marriage our subject has lived on his present farm, 
all of which he himself cleared and improved. He is a representative farmer 
and citizen of Franklin Township. In politics he is a Republican. 

THOMAS C. STEWART, farmer, P.O. Kent, was born in Franklin Town- 
ship, this county, March 1, 1826; son of Jonathan and Elizabeth (Clement) 
Stewart, former a native of Allegheny County, Penn., latter of Washington 
County, Penn. The mother came to this county in 1811 with her eldest 
brother, Thomas Clement, and located in Ravenna Township. She is now 
(1885) living, in her eighty-sixth year, and is hearty. Jonathan Stewart came 
to the county when a youog man, and after his marriage in 1819 settled in 
Franklin Township on the farm now owned by Nicholas Knapp. He after- 
ward settled in Ravenna Township on the farm now owned by his nephew. Alex 
Clement, and lived thereuntil his death in 1832, in his thirty-third year. He left 
a family of six children: Uziah (deceased); Alexander (deceased); Jonathan, who 
enlisted in the Eighty-eighth Indiana Regiment from DeKalb County, Ind., and 
after participating in several battles in Kentucky, died of exhaustion at Lebanon, 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 707 

Ky., during the late war; Thomas C. ; Margaret A. (Mrs. F. D. Eeese) and 
"William (deceased). Our subject was reared in Eavenna Township, and 
received his education in the common schools, the Grand Eiver Institute at 
Austinburg, and high school at Jefferson, after which he taught in the com- 
mon schools for four winters following. He was married, March 14, 1854, to 
Adeline, daughter of Homer W. and Mary (Knowlton) Hart, pioneers of Solon ^ 
Township, Cuyahoga County, and later of Franklin. The issue of this union is 
six children, all living: William, in Iowa; Addie E.; Homer J., in Iowa; 
Mary (Mrs. E. W. Talcott); Clara (Mrs. J. C. Yeend), and Julia E. After his 
marriage Mr. Stewart settled in Streetsboro, and lived there up to 1861, when 
lie located in Franklin Township, where he now resides on what was formerly 
known as the Latimer farm. He has been elected Trustee of Franklin Town- 
ship three terms in succession. Assessor one term, and on the Board of Edu- 
cation one term. In politics he is a Eepublican. 

HENEY W. STINAFF, late foreman of bridges, Second Division and 
Franklin Branch, New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Eailroad, was born in Eaven- 
na August 11, 1823; son of AVilliam and Sarah (Babcock) Stinaff. His father 
was a native of Sheffield, Mass., and a son of William Stinaff, of that place. 
When a young man he came to Ohio on horseback, and settled in Eavenna in 
1819. He was a carpenter by trade, which he followed all his life in Eavenna 
and Kent. He is still living at the age of eighty-seven, and resides with our 
subject. His wife was a native of Granville, Conn., and a daughter of Perry 
and Cynthia M. Babcock, who settled in Eavenna in 1819. Her father was a 
blacksmith, but the latter part of his life, though he still worked at his trade, 
he carried on a farm and accumulated a good property. The children of Will- 
iam Stinaff were three in number: Cynthia M. (deceased), Henry W. and Syl- 
vanus P. The subject of this sketch was reared in Eavenna, where he 
received a common school education. In 1840 he went in his father's shop to 
learn the carpenter's trade, and when of age went into business with his 
father, the partnership existing up to 1862. He then entered the employ of 
the A. & G. W. E, E. Co., having been engaged on that line of road to the 
present time, with the exception of two years, when with his father he took 
the contract for building the Union School of Kent, one of the finest build- 
ings in the county. The following is clipped from a local paper: 

Mr. H. W. Stinaff, who for many years held the position of foreman of bridges and 
buildings on the N. Y., P. & O. R. R., retired from the service of the company November 
29. Mr. Stinaff commenced work at building bridges for the A. & G. W. R. R. April, 
1862, on the First Division, making twenty-two years and eight mouths. He was absent 
about two years while building the Kent Union School Building. Then returning as fore- 
man on the Third and Fourth Divisions, afterward was assigned to the Second Division 
and Franklin Branch as foreman of bridges and buildings, which position he held about 
fifteen years up to the time of his retirement. The following letter from Mr. Charles Lat- 
imer, Chief Engineer of the N. Y., P. & O., shows the esteem in which Mr. Stinaff was 
held by the company: 

Engineeking Dep't N. Y., P. & O. R. R. Co. [ 
Cleveland, Ohio, December 4, 1884. f 

Mr. Henry W, Stinaff: Dear Sir.— I wish to express my regret to you that any 
change should have occurred in the road management necessitating the change made 
whereby you leave the service of the company, and to also express my great satisfaction 
that in all of the eleven years past during which you have been foreman of bridge build- 
ing, there have been no accidents or loss of property in your jurisdiction which could in 
any way be ascribed to your failure. Your work speaks for itself, and I hope that you 
will feel that in retiring you take with you a record to which you can point with pride. 

Wishing you health and happiness in the future, I am your friend, 

Charles Latimer. 

Mr. Stinaff has been married four times, his first wife being Lydia But- 
ton, of Kent, by whom he had one child— Charles H. (deceased). His second 



708 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

wife was Maryette Loomis, of Ravenna, by whom he had three children: Will- 
iam C, George and Perry (all deceased); his third wife was INtrs. Emily 
Plum, of Ashtabula County, Ohio, and his present wife was Mrs. Ellen Whit- 
ney, of Greenville, Penn. In politics Mr. Stinaff was formerly a Whig, cast- 
ino- his first vote for Henry Clay. He joined the Republican party at its 
organization, and has acted with it ever since. 

J. B. STRATTON, P. O. Kent, a retired farmer and an honored citizen 
of this county for upward of forty years, was born at Bennington, Yt., March 

14, 1800. His parents, Joel and Rhoda (Beaman) Stratton, were farmers, to 
which occupation the subject of this sketch was reared. In 1824 he deposited 
his first vote for Henry Clay as President. He was married, in his native 
town, May 12, 1824, to Ruth Olin, a daughter of Ezra Olin, of Shaftsbury, Vt. 
The children of Mr. and Mrs. Stratton are as follows: Almira, born February 

15, 1825; Mary M., born August 12, 1826; Asa, born February 24, 1828; Lucas, 
born November 8, 1829; Samuel, born August 19, 1831; Freeman, born June 
26, 1833; Joel, born March 28, 1835, and accidentally scalded to death, Janu- 
ary 12, 1838; Jonathan N., born May 16, 1837; Melissa, born May 28, 1839; 
Susan, born December 30, 1840; Joseph B., born October 22, 1842; Clarissa 
C, born July 2, 1849. Soon after marriage Mr. Stratton moved to Genesee 
County, N. Y., and thence to Wyoming County, N. Y., and in 1837 took up 
his residence in this county, buying a farm of 130 acres about two miles north 
of the present village of Kent. Though Mr. Stratton received in his youth a 
very limited education, his success in life speaks well for his natural sterling 
qualities of mind. He added to his first possessions in this county, and at 
one time owned some 400 acres of valuable land and other property. At the 
time (1874) of the celebration of the golden wedding of himself and wife, 
eleven of their children were living, all of whom were married, ten of them 
being present on the occasion, and Mr. Stratton presented each of them, as a 
memorial of the event, with $1,000. The eleven children are all now living 
and in prosperous circumstances. In 1884 our subject's grandchildren num- 
bered thirty-two, and his great-grandchildren, fifteen. Mrs. Stratton, who was 
a member of the Universalist Church, died April 4, 1877, and Mr. Stratton 
then, January 15, 1878, married Mrs. Martha A. (Williams) Munsee, widow 
of Edward A. Munsee, and daughter of Mark and Polly (Staunton) Williams, 
of Hampshire County, Mass. Mr. Stratton now resides in the north part of 
the village of Kent, where^he owns eleven acres of land. He and his wife are 
members of the Universalist Church. In politics he is a Republican. 

FREEMAN STRATTON, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Genesee 
County, N. Y., June 26, 1833, son of Joseph B. and Ruth (Olin) Stratton, 
who settled in Franklin Township, this county, in 1837. Our subject was reared 
here and educated in the common schools, and has always followed farming 
as an occupation. He was married, May 5, 1857, to Emelia, daughter of 
Frederick and Margaret (Foster) Williard, of Franklin Township, this county. 
By this union there are three children living: Georgianna, Harry J. and Frank- 
lin S. Mr. Stratton resides on the old Williard homestead, where he has lived 
since 1869. In politics he is independent. 

AARON B. STUTZMAN, A. M. , Superintendent of the public schools at 
Kent, was born in Wayne County, Ohio, March 23, 1842, son of Henry and 
Catharine (Miller) Stutzman, natives of Summerset County, Penn., of German 
descent. They came to Ohio in 1826, locating in Greene Township, Wayne 
County, where they lived and died. The subject of this sketch was reared on 
his father's farm, and educated at the Smithville High School and Mount 
Union College, whence he graduated in 1870. He engaged in teaching, as 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 709 

Principal of the Dalton High School, of Dalton, Wayne Co., Ohio, where he 
remained two years; from there he removed to Doylestown, where he was 
engaged in teaching two years, after which he was for five years Superintendent 
of the public schools at Wadsworth, Medina Co., Ohio, and a member of the 
County Board of Examiners. In December, 1878, he passed a rigid examina- 
tion at Columbus, Ohio, before the State Board of Examiners, who granted 
him a certificate of high qualifications, which is good for life and in any pub- 
lic school in the State. In same year he located in Kent, where he has held 
the position of Superintendent of public schools to the present time. He 
was married, August 15, 1872, to Jennie, daughter of Israel Clippinger, of 
Dalton, Ohio, by whom he has had three children: Edwin H. (deceased), Grace 
E. and Willie G. During the civil war Mr. Stutzman served in the Union 
Army, as private in Company A, One Hundred and Sixty-ninth Ohio Volunteer 
Infantry. Mr. Stutzman is a gentleman of culture and wedded to the profes- 
sion he has chosen. He and his wife ai'e members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. In politics he is a Republican. He is a F. & A. M., and an active 
member of the I. O. O. F. 

HENRY A. SWAN, farmer and milkman, P. O. Kent, was born in Boston, 
Summit Co., Ohio, September 28, 1840, son of Levi L, and Louisa (Metlin) 
Swan, early settlers of that locality. The subject of this sketch was reared 
in his native town, where he followed farming for three years after he became of 
age, then went to Bath, where he lived one year, thence came to Streetsboro, 
where he engaged in farming and dairying for six years. In 1873 he located 
in Kent, and in 1876 on the farm where he now resides. He keeps a dairy 
of from fifteen to twenty cows, and in 1882 built his present residence, one of 
the finest in the county. His barns and other out-buildings are first-class, well 
adapted to the uses for which they were built, and everything about his prem- 
ises shows evidence of care and thrift. Mr. Swan was married, March 9, 1865, 
to Eliza, daughter of Aaron and Mary (Dickison) Ferry, who located in Frank- 
lin Township, this county, about 1833. The issue of this union is two chil- 
dren: Herbert and Karl. In politics Mr. Swan is a Democrat. 

J. S. SWEENEY, physician and surgeon, Kent, was born in Middlefield, 
Greauga Co., Ohio, August 14, 1831, son of John and Dolly (Brown) Sweeney, 
natives of Belfast, Ireland, and New Hampshire respectively. John Sweeney 
was a farmer by occupation, and one of the first settlers of Geauga County, 
Ohio, locating in Painesville in 1818, where he resided for several years; then 
removed to Middlefield, where he lived until his death, which occurred July 
9, 1874, in his eighty-third year. He was pressed into the British service dur- 
ing the war of 1812. In character he was upright, honest and honorable, a 
firm friend and true to his convictions. Our subject was reared on his father's 
farm and educated in select schools. From 1850 to 1854 he stvidied medicine 
with his brother, E. J. Sweeney, of Nelson, this county. He then went to Park- 
man, Geauga Co., Ohio, where he engaged in the practice of medicine two years; 
thence moved to Chardon, practicing there one year. At the breaking out of 
the Rebellion he enlisted in Company A, Hoffman's Battalion, and served on 
Johnson's Island, Lake Erie, guarding prisoners, until he received an honora- 
ble discharge on account of disability in the fall of 1862. He then located 
in Stowe, Summit Co. , Ohio, and resumed the practice of medicine, remaining 
there until 1871, when he moved to Kent, where he has since been in active 
practice. He was married June, 1854, to Delia, daughter of Joseph W^. Rock- 
well, of Rome, Ashtabula Co., Ohio, and by her he has three children: 
Dolly A. (Mrs. Byron Longcoy), Edward J. and Alice. Dr. Sweeney is an active 
member of the K. of P. and G. A. R., of which latter he is Post Commander. 
In politics he is a Democrat. 



710 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES 

JOHN L. TIBBALS, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Deerfield Township, 
this county, January 15, 1821; son of Alfred M. and Martha H. (Swem) Tib- 
bals. His paternal grandfather, Moses Tibbals, a native of Massachusetts, 
settled in Deerfield Township in 1805, where he cleared and improved the farm 
on which he lived and died. He had five children: Clarissa (deceased), Alfred 
M. (deceased), Arbet L. (deceased), Francis (deceased) and Seymour. His 
maternal grandfather was William Swem, a native of New Jersey, and a pio- 
neer of Salem, Columbiana Co., Ohio. The father of our subject was reared 
from eight years of age in Deerfield Township, this county. There he cleared 
and improved two farms (one now occupied by his son Frederick) and resided 
until he was killed at the age of sixty years by a falling limb of a tree. His 
children were five in number: John L., Norman (deceased), Frederick and 
Curtis (farmers in Deerfield) and Newell, a prominent lawyer of Akron, Ohio, 
and who has filled the office of Judge of Common Pleas. Our subject was 
reared and educated and served as Trustee for several years in Deerfield Town- 
ship, where he resided till 1875, when he removed to Franklin Township to 
the farm where he now resides. He was married, February 19, 1851, to Mary 
C, daughter of Frederick and Fanny (Williams) Dewey, of Franklin Town- 
ship, this county, former of whom was a native of Chester, Mass., and a son 
of John Dewey, parent of three children: Mary C, Sylvester F. (deceased), 
and Harriet F., wife of J. N. Stratton. Frederick Dewey came to Franklin 
Township, this county, in 1818 and located on the farm now owned by Marius 
Heighten, and in 1834 settled on the farm now occupied by our subject, most 
of which he cleared and improved, and here he died in February, 1872, in his 
seventy-fifth year. Mrs. Tibbals' maternal grandfather, Dudley Williams, also 
a native of Massachusetts, settled in Franklin Township, this county, in 1820. 
Our subject and wife are the parents of five children: Floris (deceased), 
Charles, Frank, John and Frederick. Mr. Tibbals is a Kepublican in politics. 

TURNER BROS. (Joshua and John G.), manufacturers, Kent, are 
natives of Bradford, England, where they served [an apprenticeship of seven 
years in the worsted mills of that city. In 1873 they came to America, and 
located in Jamestown, N. Y., where Joseph Turner, their father, started the 
first worsted mills, which he conducted for five years. They are now owned by 
William Hall & Co., and still in operation. In 1879 the family located in 
Kent, and embarked in the manufacture of a superior quality of worsted dress 
goods. They occupy a building five and a half stories high, in dimensions 
160x45, and thoroughly equipped with the latest improved dye-house, combing, 
drawing and spinning machinery, with 114 looms and 2,000 spindles, employ- 
ing 150 hands. The mills are run by two large turbine water-wheels, develop- 
ing 120 horse-power. The Turner Bros., who are the managers, are gentle- 
men of experience in all the details of their business, one of the leading 
industries of the place, contributing largely to the substantial welfare of the 
community. 

JOHN G. TURNER, manufacturer, Kent, was born in England, April 
10, 1857; son of Joseph and Martha (Gill) Turner, who came to Amer- 
ica in 1873, and located in Jamestown, N. Y., where his father, with others, 
under the firm name of Hall, Broadhead & Turner, started the first alpaca- 
mills in that city, and where he was engaged in business up to 1878. In 1879 
Joseph Turner located in Kent, this county, and embarked in the manufacture 
of worsted goods in company with his sons, Joshua and John G. , in which he 
continued until his death. He died in 1881 at the age of fifty-three years. 
The business is still carried on by his sons (see sketch of Turner Bros.). Our 
subject was reared in Yorkshire, England, until sixteen years of age, and was 




'^y-'sx 



§ 




&^c^z^y;^^yy'ij^y^ujt^ 



FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP. 713 

educated in all the details of his present business in that country, and in his 
father's mill at Jamestown, N. Y. Mr. Turner is a gentleman of push and 
enterprise, and his identity with the manufacturing interests of Kent has been 
alike valuable to himself and the public. He is a F. & A. M. In politics a 
Republican. 

JAMES WARK, photographer, Kent, was born in County Donegal, Ire- 
land, January 23, 1847; son of William and Catherine (Long) Wark. His 
ancestors, who were of Scotch descent, located in Ireland in 1798. The sub- 
ject of this sketch was reared and educated in his .native county, and came to 
America in 1866, locating at Cuyahoga Falls, Summit Co., Ohio, where he 
remained five months. He then went to Akron and worked on a farm by the 
month until 1869, when he entered the photograph gallery of G. W. Manly, 
where he served an apprenticeship of two years. In 1871 he removed to Kent 
and opened a photograph gallery, in which he has been profitably engaged to 
the present time. He was married, June 8, 1871, to Belle, daughter of Jas- 
per and Fidelia (Bliss) Haught, of Kent, by whom he has two children: Will- 
iam J. and Bessie B. Mr. ^V^ark is a member of the Episcopal Church, also 
an active member of the I. O. O. F. and R. A. He is now serving his 
third term as Clerk of this township, and first term as Clerk of Kent cor- 
poration. In politics he is a Republican. 

LEWIS K. WILLIAMS, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Franklin Town- 
ship, this county, January 15, 1842, son of Austin and Adaliue (Knowlton) 
Williams, the former a native of Massachusetts, the latter of Vermont. His 
paternal grandfather was Dudley Williams, who came from Russell, Mass., to 
Franklin in 1820, and located on the farm now owned by Henry Lake. He 
afterward removed to Wisconsin and died there. He reared a family of five 
children: Calviu (deceased), Austin (deceased), George, Fanny (deceased) and 
Polly (Mrs. Sylvester Huggins). The maternal grandfather of our subject was 
William Knowlton, formerly of Vermont and an early settler of what is now 
Kent. Austin Williams, the father of our subject, was reared on a farm and 
always followed farming as an occupation. In his early manhood his father 
gave him forty acres of land, on which he moved after his marriage and to 
which he added by purchase until he had accumulated 320 acres, whei'e he 
lived and died April 1, 1872, in his sixty-fifth year. He had four children: 
Lewis K., William D. (deceased), Scott T. and Charles A. The subject of this 
sketch, a farmer, was reared on his father's farm and educated in the common 
and high schools of Kent. In 1865 his father gave him and his brother, 
William D., 120 acres of land, which they worked together for two years. He 
then purchased William D.'s interest and conducted the farm himself up to 
1883, in which year he rented his farm and, having purchased a residence in 
Kent, removed there, where he now resides. He was married November 30, 
1869, to Abbie, daughter of Deacon Lyman and Lucy C. (Stebbins) Sabi^, of 
Hampshire County, Mass. In politics Mr. Williams is a Republican. He and 
his wife are members of the Congregational Church. 

WILLIAMS BROS., proprietors of the Peerless Mills, Kent. This firm is 
composed of Scott T. and Charles A. Williams, the two younger sons of the 
late Austin Williams, the former a farmer by occupation, and the latter a stu- 
dent of the Western Reserve College. They began business in 1879 in the 
erection of the Peerless Mills. The present main building was erected in 
1880, and the mill started in June, 1881, fully equipped for the manufacture 
of 125 barrels of fiour daily by the "new process," as it was then known. 
At the end of two years the business had outgrown the building, also the 
capacity of the machinery for manufacturing, at which time (1883) the mill 

37 



714 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

was enlarged by adding a wing nearly as large as the original building, the 
system of grinding changed to "full roller," the daily capacity increased 
from 125 to 200 barrels, and a feed department added. The mill is now 96x73 
feet, five stories high, having a floor surface of over 35,000 square feet, 
and equipped iu the best manner for flouring by the E. P. Allis system, con- 
taining sixteen full sets Gray roller mills, three clearing machines, twenty-one 
bolts, seven purifiers and aspirators, also dusters, centrifugals, packers, etc. It 
is run by a 100-horse-power engine, which is furnished with steam from two 
75-horse- power boilers. As the mills are now run they consume from 250,000 
to 300,000 bushels of wheat annually, and also have a capacity for grinding 
150.000 bushels of corn. Grain for supplying the mill is largely bought 
from farmers at home, and the prices paid are equal to any market 'in the 
State, making the best of home markets for the farm. The proprietors are 
young men of push and enterprise, and fully understand all the details of the 
milling business, which is one of the leading industries of Kent. 

SCOTT T. WILLIAMS, miller, Kent, was born in Franklin Township, 
this county, February 26, 1852; son of Austin and Adeline (Knowlton) Will- 
iams. His paternal grandfather was Dudley Williams, an early settler of 
Franklin Township, this county, who afterward removed to Wisconsin and 
died there. His maternal grandfather was William Knowlton, a native of 
Cape Ann, Mass., also an early settler of Franklin Township, this county. 
Our subject was reared on a farm, and after he became of age engaged in 
ao-ricultux-e for six years. In 1879, in company with his brother Charles A. ^ 
he erected the Peerless Flouring Mills, and embarked in the milling business, 
in which he is engaged at the present time. He was married, October 17, 
1877, to Hettie, daughter of Elias and Triphena (Blair) Converse, of Mantua 
Township, by whom he has one child — Lewis B. Mr. and Mrs. Williams are 
members of the Congregational Church. In politics he is a Republican. 

FRANKLIN WILLIARD, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Franklin 
Mills (now Kent) November 11, 1822; son of Frederick and Margaret (Foster) 
Williard, respectively natives of Maryland and Beaver County, Penn. The 
paternal grandfather of our subject was Philip Williard, a native of Ger- 
many and one of the first settlers of Rootstown, where he lived and died. 
Frederick Williard, a carpenter by trade, was an early settler of Franklin 
Township, and for the last twenty years of his life he was a farmer, the home- 
stead now being occupied by his son-in-law, Freeman Stratton. He had nine 
children: Catherine (deceased), Sarah (Mrs. Hiram Men-ell), George, Frank- 
lin, Frederick (deceased), Edwin, Mary (deceased), Samuel, and Amelia 
(Mrs. Freeman Stratton). The subject of this sketch has always followed 
farming. He has been twice married. His first wife was Mary Pratt, of 
Franklin Township, this county, by whom he had two children: Perry, and an 
infant daughter (deceased). By his present wife, nee Sai'ah A. Hackett, he 
has three children: Frederick, Fi-ances and Asa. Mr. Williard now resides a 
mile east of Kent, where he has lived for eighteen years. In politics he is a 
Democrat. 

SAMUEL WILLIARD, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Franklin Town- 
ship, this county, October 22, 1832, son of Frederick and Margaret (Foster) 
Williard, who were among the first settlers of Franklin Township, this county, 
wherein our subject has always lived, and he'now occupies a part of his father's 
homestead. He was married April 10, 1864, to Emma, daughter of Matthias 
Clark, of Akron, and by her he has had two children: Clifl"ord (deceased) and 
Evalena M. Mr. Williard is a representative farmer and citizen of Franklin 
Township. In politics he is a Democrat. 



FRANKLTN TOWNSHIP. 715 

SIMON P. WOLCOTT, attbrney-at-law, Kent, was born in Northfield, 
Summit Co., Ohio, January 30, 1837, son of Alfred and Mary A. (Scovill) 
Wolcott. He was born and reared on his father's farm and received his earlj 
education in the common schools. He prepared for college under the instruc- 
tion of the late President Garfield, at Hiram Eclectic Institute, Hiram, 
Ohio, and from there attended "Western Reserve College at Hudson, Ohio, 
where he graduated in 1862. Choosing the law for his profession, he studied 
one year in the office of H. B. Foster, of Hudson, Ohio, and one year with N. 
D. Tibbals, of Akron. He was admitted to the bar of Summit County in 1864, 
and in the fall of the same year located in Kent, where he has been in active 
practice ever since. He was married July 17, 1866, to Mary H. , daughter of 
Anson A. and Sally P. (White) Brewster, of Hudson, and the issue of this 
union was three children: Nellie B., Jennie B. and Duncan B. Wolcott. In 
1866 Mr. W''olcott was elected Mayor of Kent, being the second Mayor of the 
town; also served as City Solicitor of Kent two terms: was a member of ithe 
School Board nine years, and he is at present member of the Board of Exam- 
iners. In the fall of 1881 he was elected to the State Senate, I'epresenting 
Portage, Summit, Lake, Geauga and Ashtabula Counties; was re-elected in 
the fall of 1883 and he is now serving his second term. In politics Mr. Wol- 
cott has always been a stanch Eepublican. 

JAMES WOODARD was born in Ravenna, Portage Co., Ohio, July 31, 
1810. He was the eldest son of Gen. Joshua Woodard, and the first white 
male child born in what is now Ravenna Village. He came to Franklin Mills 
(now Kent), Ohio, in 1818, his father soon after erecting a woolen mill and 
continuing that business with John Haymaker for many years. His early 
advantages for an education were very limited, but he acquired, by diligent 
study, a good practical common school education. He was possessf^d of an 
active mind, and was compelled by force of circumstances in that early day ie 
habits of industry. In 1834 he married Maria Hopkins, daughter of Rudi 
Hopkins, of Copley, Summit Co., Ohio. Soon after their marriage they com- 
menced keeping hotel at the Upper Village at Franklin Mills, remaining there 
for some years, afterward settling on a farm now within the corporate limits 
of Kent. They raised a large family of children, two sons and seven daughters, 
all now living save one. Mr. Woodard occupied many positions of responsibil- 
ity and trust. He served many years as Justice of the Peace and was als® 
Sheriff of Portage County for two terms, and it has been often and truthfully 
said that Portage County never had a more efficient Sheriff. He was strictly 
honest, brave and courageous, and during his terms as Sheriff had occasio-n to 
arrest many counterfeiters and rascals that then infested Portage County. 
Notably among these was the notorious "Jim" Brown, who was convicted 
and sent to the Ohio Penitentiary. Mr. Woodard in his later years had 
retired from the more active duties of life. He was the efficient Mayor of 
Kent two terms, closing his last term three months before his death. Hie 
administration was mai'ked by his considerate attention to the beat interests <^ 
Kent, where he had so long lived, and it is universally conceded that Kent 
has never had so efficient a Mayor. He was a man of most positive conviction^, 
sterling integrity, and was fearless in the expression of his views on all subj-ects. 
He was kind and charitable to the poor, and always gave with an open hand. 
He died at his pleasant home in Kent, September 2, 1883, of neuralgia of the 
heart, after an illness of only two days, honored and respected by all who 
knew him. 

CHARLES R. WOODARD, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Franklin 
Township, this counly, April 4, 1854, son of James and Maria (Hopkins.) 



716 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Woodard. His paternal grandfather was Gen. Joshua Woodard, a soldier of 
the war of 181 2, and an early settler of this county. His maternal grandfather 
was Kudd Hopkins, one of the first settlers of the county, who was identified 
with the woolen manufacturing interests in Franklin Mills ( now Kent), in the 
early times. .James Woodard was the first white child born in the original 
town plot of Ravenna. He was the father of nine children: Clara (Mrs. John 
Perkins); Abby, deceased; Rebecca (Mrs. James Metlin); Delia (Mrs. E. W. 
Bassett); Frank; Lucy (Mrs. George Furry); Estella (Mrs. N. Hall); Mary (Mrs. 
Richard Williams), and Charles R. In politics Mr. Woodard was prominently 
identified in this county. He served as Sheriff of the county two terms, and 
during his residence in Kent was twice Mayor. Our subject was reared in 
Franklin Township, this county, and educated in the common and high schools. 
He was married April 4, 1878, to Elizabeth, daughter of R. P. and Jane 
Morgan, of Kent, by whom he has two children: Mary J. and George. In 
politics Mr. Woodard is a Democrat. 

FREDERICK WURSTER, bottling works, Kent, was born in Wurtem- 
berg, Germany, October 2, 1857, son of Philip and Christiana (Gugle) Wurs- 
ter, and was reared and educated in his native land. He came to America 
when fourteen years of age, and worked in Philadelphia in a brewery for nine 
months; from there he went to Buffalo, N. Y., where he was employed in the 
same business for one year, and then returned to Philadelphia. In 1880 he 
went to Wilmington, Del., and embarked in the brewery business for himself, 
continuing in the same there one year. In 1883 he located in Kent, Franklin 
Township, and purchased the bottling works of Louis Gehring, where he has 
done a successful business up to the present time. Mr. Wurster was married 
October 13, 1878, to Louisa, daughter of Herman and Mary (Horning) Bied- 
erman, of Wilmington, Del., by whom he has two children: Sophia and Ida. 
Mr. Wurster is a member of the I. O. O. F. In politics he is a Democrat. 



FREEDOM TOWNSHIP. 



JOSHUA ATWOOD, retired, P. O. Freedom, was born February 29, 1812, 
in Pittsfield, Vt., son of Joshua a^d Thankful (Stone) Atwood, the former a 
native of Massachusetts, the latter of Vermont. Our subject, whose portrait 
appears in this work, was educated in the country schools, and was a farmer 
until seventeen years old, when he began to learn the blacksmith's trade with 
a Mr. Egleston in Pittsfield, Vt. , with whom he continued for three years and 
then worked for himself a few months in Rutland, same State, and at Pitts- 
ford one year, after which he engaged with Mr. Egleston one year, and then for a 
time worked for himself. He came to Ohio in 1836 and opened a blacksmith 
shop at Freedom, this county. In 1844 he added a carriage manufacturing 
departmeQt, and soon employed as many as eight men, and supplied the 
demand within a large radius. He was very successful, and in 1875 he retired 
from active labors to enjoy the fruits of many years' hard and persistent toil. Mr. 
Atwood was married in 1838 to Aurelia Bii-ge, who died in 1874, leaving no 
children. He and she were among the first members of the Congregational 
Church at Freedom. Our subject has served the township honorably as 
Treasurer and Tru^stee. He is a pleasant gentleman; in politics a representa- 
tive Republican. His brothers-in-law, Lasell and Simeon Birge, came to 



FREEDOM TOWNSHIP. 717 

Freedom Township, this county, the former in 1832, bought 400 acres of land 
and erected many of the buildings in Freedom Center. SimeOTi Birge, who 
was a physician, moved away in 1838, while Lasell remained until 1846 or 
1847. The father of our subject was in the war of 1812, and participated in 
the battle of Plattsburg. 

HENRY IRVING BROWN, farmer, P. O. Freedom Station, was born in 
Freedom Township, this county, July 28, 1860, son of Isaac and Rebecca 
(French) Brown, natives of New York and Connecticut respectively, whose 
parents were among the first settlers in this county. Mr. and Mrs. Isaac 
Brown were married here in 1837 and reared a family of five children, three 
now living: Ellen A., Ida D. and Henry I. The two eldest, Levi J. and 
Mary A., are dead. The mother died February 8, 1881, aged sixty-two years. 
Our subject was married October 27, 1881, to Allie Miller, of Freedom Town- 
ship, this county, born June 2, 1861; parents of one daughter — Mamie E. 
Brown, born September 7, 1883. Our subject follows general farming and 
stock-growing. In politics he is a Republican. 

CHARLES DUDLEY, farmer, P. O. Freedom, is a native of Richmond, 
Berkshire Co., Mass., born December 8, 1814, son of Timothy and Anna 
(Osborn) Dudley, natives of Guilford, Conn. They were married in Berk- 
shire County, Mass., in 1800, and in 1835 moved to Freedom Township, this 
county, and in 1837 to Whiteside County, 111., where they died, aged seventy- 
seven and ninety years respectively. Our subject came to this county in 1837, 
settling in Freedom Township, where he now resides. He has cleared many 
aci'es of land and has followed general agriculture. He was married June 22, 
1837, to Sarah Leete, a native of West Stockbridge, Berkshire Co., Mass., 
born August 6, 1816, and daughter of Nathaniel and Dimmis (Wickhane) 
Leete, natives of Connecticut, and who were married in 1800, and lived and 
died in Berkshire County, Mass. To our subject and wife were born four sons: 
Charles A., attorney in Des Moines, Iowa; Plimmon H., civil engineer, 
New York City; Marquis W., and John F., a farmer in Freedom Township, 
this county, all married. Our subject has served in some of the township 
oflfices. He and his wife ai-e members of the Congregational Church. In pol- 
itics he is a strong Republican. 

LISBON FINCH, farmer, P. O. Freedom Station, was born in Otis, Berk- 
shire Co., Mass., July 8, 1819; son of Joshua and Clarissa (Clark) Finch, 
also natives of Otis, Berkshire County, where they were married, and reared a 
family of nine children, three of whom are now living. They came to Free- 
dom Township, this county, June 16, 1825, where Joshua Finch was an old-line 
Whig "stand-by," andi was prominently identified with the Masonic order for six- 
ty-two years. Here he and his wife died. Our subject, who has always made his 
home in this county, owns several hundred acres of land here. (His sister 
Celestia's marriage in November, 1826, with Lester Hall, was the first wedding 
in the township.) He was married April 8, 1846, to Eunice Scovill, born in 
Licking County, Ohio, July 4, 1821, daughter of David and Clarissa Scovill, 
natives respectively of Massachusetts and Pennsylvania, and early settlers in 
Johnstown, Licking Co., Ohio, coming June 17, 1817. They were the parents 
of eight children. Mr. and Mrs. Finch have had five children born to them: 
Cordelia, Howard J., Lydia R., David S. and Lyman J., all living except 
Lyman. Our subject is a Republican. 

WILLIAM GARDNER, farmer, P. O. Freedom, was born in Berkshire 
County, Mass., October 1, 1805, son of Henry and Abigail (Stedman) Gardner, 
natives of Massachusetts and Rhode Island, respectively, and who died in 
Berkshire County. Our subject came to this county in 1829, and purchased 



718 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

land in Freedom Township, where he followed brick-making for a number of 
years. He was married in Freedom Township in 1836, to Marietta Matteson, 
of Hiram Township, this county, and a native of Bennington County, Vt. , 
born in 1818, daughter of Robert and Lois (Vaughn) Matteson, who moved 
from Vermont to this county in 1833, and resided a few years in Hiram Town- 
ship; thence they went to Illinois, and later to Kansas, where they died. To 
our subject and wife were born five children: Henry, Robert, Marion, Christo- 
pher C. and Franklin, all living. In politics Mr. Gardner is a Democrat. 

JOHN R. JAMES, farmer, P. O. Freedom, was born September 14, 1813, 
in Hampshire County, Mass.: son of Aaron and Irena (Willcutt) James, 
natives of same county, and where they were married; in 1817 they moved to 
Ghariestown Township, this county, and settled upon land formerly purchased 
by their forefathei's. Of their family three survive: Joel "W., John R. and 
Catherine W. Peebles. Our subject remained upon and operated the home 
farm until about 1855, and then came to Freedom Township, this county, 
ivhere he now resides. He was twice married, first on May 30, 1838. to Elsie 
Prentice, also of Charlestown Township, this county, a native of Connecticut, 
daughter of Elisha and Betsey (Frisby) Prentice, who settled in this county 
about 1823 and here died. To our subject and wife were born three children: 
Albert P., Laura A. and Rosa C. The mother died September 5, 1847, aged 
thirty-six years, and our subject then married, May 1, 1854, Prudence D. Col- 
ton, of Freedom Township, this county, born in Hartford County, Conn., Jan- 
uary 11, 1824, daughter of Jeremiah and Lucy (Lusk) Colton, natives of 
Massachusetts and Connecticut, respectively, and who were married in Hart- 
lord County, Conn., May 29, 1814. In 1825 they came to Freedom Township, 
tihis county, where they died, Mr. Colton in 1867, his widow in 1868, aged 
seventy-five and seventy-seven years respectively. Their family of five are all 
BOW deceased except the wife of our subject. By this union were born four 
children: Mary E., Willis C, Lucy J. and Flora I. Mrs. James is a member 
of the Congregational Church. In politics he is a Republican. 

JOHN KILBOURN, farmer, P. O. Freedom, was born August 13, 1828, 
in Hartford County, Conn., son of Hiram and Mary (Crocker) Kilbourn, natives 
®f Connecticut, and of English descent. They were married in Hartford 
County, Conn., November 24, 1824, and in 1828 came to Freedom Township, 
this county, where they purchased land, built a log-cabin and saw-mill, cut roads, 
cleared farms, etc., and reared a family of which two are now living: John 
and Frank. The father died September 3, 1866, the mother November 13, 
1879, aged sixty-eight and eighty-one years, respectively. Our subject pur- 
©hased land in Freedom Township, in 1850, and in 1858 became owner of the 
Siomestead farm; he has now 210 acres. Jle was married July 5, 1857, to Amy 
ISL Loomis, of Hiram Township, this county, where she was born in 1836, 
daughter of Charles and Arminta (Harmon) Loomis, natives of Vermont and 
Massachusetts, respectively. They married in this county, and reared a family, 
of whom six are now living. The parents are both dead. To the union of 
our subject and first wife were born three children: Rena, Myrtie and Charles 
L. Mrs. Kilbourn died April 17, 1880. Our subject was married again Feb- 
ruary 22, 1882, to Mrs. Sarah A. Davis, of Freedom Township, this county, 
widow of Martin Davis, Avho died in 1874, father of three children: Cora, 
Emma (deceased) and Eugene. Our subject is a Republican in politics. 

GILES W. KNEELAND, farmer, P. O. Freedom, was born in Shalers- 
ville Township, this county, October 15, 1817, son of George W. and Sally 
(Carlton) Kneeland, who settled here in a very early day, and where they were 
married in 1815. They were both natives of Connecticut, whence they moved 



FREEDOM TOWNSHIP. 719 

with their parents, who were among the lir^t settlers in the county. Our sub- 
ject is the only survivor of a family of four children, whose parents died in 
1835 and 1878, respectively, faithful members of the early pioneer church. 
He came in 1828 into Freedom Township, where he now resides, and where he 
was married December 6, 1838, to Amy A. Barber, born in Berkshire County, 
Mass., May 24, 1818, daughter of Myron and Amy (Spaulding) Barber, natives 
of Connecticut and Massachusetts respectively, and who came to Freedom 
Township, this county, in 1824; they died, aged sixty-seven and forty- three 
respectively. Of their family of four only one — Amy A. — survives. Our 
subject and wife are parents of five children, all now living: Keziah S., Elbert 
R., Charles J., Myron A. and Elva M. Mr. Kneeland has served in some of 
the township ofl&ces. He and his wife are members of the Congregational 
Church. 

A. C. LARKCOM, farmer, P. O. Freedom, was born in Otis Township, 
Berkshire Co., Mass. ; son of Paul and Comfort (Norton) Larkcom. Paul, who 
had been in the war of the Revolution three years, came with his family to 
Portage County, Ohio, in 1826, via Erie Canal, the lake and stage, and bought 
land where our subject now lives. A. C. Larkcom was married in May, 1826, 
to Miss Sarah Perry, born June 27, 1803, who bore him the following childi-en: 
Mary, married to Enoch Lewis; Cherilla, married to Ambrose Hall; Lyman 
M., born February 5, 1831, attended country schools, and was married November, 
1863, to Miss Rosalia Derthick; and Perry, deceased March 11, 1868. Our 
subject has remained since 1826 on his present farm, which he reclaimed from 
the wilderness. He was appointed at various times to the oflfices of Township 
Clerk, Constable, Justice of the Peace and Notary Public. He can honorably 
boast of being second cousin to Noah Webster, the great lexicographer; his 
wife was second cousin to the immortal Commodore O. H. Perry, who gallantly 
sustained the unsullied honor of our flag on Lake Erie. Mrs. Larkcom died 
August 21, 1883. The results of Mr. Larkcom's labor are 178 acres of well- 
improved land and some bank stock at Garrettsville, this county. At the age 
of seventeen years he began the manufacture of burial caskets, and during 
his life he has made and sold over 3,000 caskets. 

JOHN P. PARKER, farmer, P. O. Ravenna, was born in Bethel, Windsor 
Co., Vt. , January 24. 1813; son of Nathan and Bethiah (Peak) Parker, for- 
mer a native of Connecticut, latter of Windsor, where they were married and 
lived, dying at the respective ages of eighty-six and fifty-three years. Our 
subject Hioved to and settled in Freedom Township, this county, in 1839, and 
here cleared a farm and established a home. He was married March 9, 1845, 
to Almira Martin, of Cuyahoga County, Ohio, born in Vermont August 24, 
1821, daughter of Reuben and Thankful (Bolton) Martin, natives respectively 
of Vermont and Connecticut, married at Rochester, Vt. They moved to Cuy- 
ahoga County, Ohio, in 1834, thence to Lorain County, and in 1853 to Defi- 
ance, where they died, the father aged eighty- three, the mother eighty-one 
years. Mr. and Mrs. Parker are the parents of two sons: Nathan and Elmore 
M. ; they have an adopted daughter named Zella. Our subject is a stanch 
Republican. 

ORLIN C. STURDEVANT, farmer, P. O. Freedom, was born in Susque- 
hanna County, Penn., September 28, 1818; son of Joel and Diana (Capron) 
Sturdevant, who moved to what is now Summit County, Ohio, in 1820, and 
there remained about fourteen years, thence came to Freedom TownshijD, this 
county, in 1834, where they lived and died. Our subject was married, March 
3, 1842, to Amanda Hollenbeck, of Shalersville Township, this county, born 
at Hudson, Summit Co., Ohio, March 14, 1821, daughter of Gad and Phoebe 



720 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

(Bishop) Hollenbeck, who accorapanied their parents to Summit County at a 
very early day, and where they were married. Subsequently they removed to 
Charlestown Township, thence to Shalersville and finally to Geauga County, 
Ohio, where they died. Mr. and Mrs. Sturdevant are the parents of nine chil- 
dren, six of whom are now living: Phoebe A., Emma D , Eugene A., William 
H., Lucius V. and Minnie E. Our subject purchased the farm on which he 
now resides in 1842. In politics he is a Republican. 

HENRY A. STURDEVANT, farmer, P. O. Freedom, was born in Summit 
County, Ohio, September 4, 1825; son of Joel and Diana (Capron) Sturde- 
vant, natives of Connecticut and Pennsylvania, respectively, and of English 
descent. They were married in Susquehanna County, Penn. , in 1817. and 
there lived a few years, then moved to Summit County, Ohio, whei'e they 
remained until 1834, when they came to this county, cleai'ed up land and fol- 
lowed farming. Here they died at the ages of sixty-nine and ninety-one, 
respectively. Our subject purchased land in Shalersville Township, this county, 
in 1850, and in 1866 came to Freedom Township, where he now resides. He 
was married, November 17, 1853, to Weltha A. Tuttle, of Shalersville Town- 
ship, tliis county, born in Chautauqua County, N. Y. , February 3, 1831, 
daughter of Eli and Mary (Nelson) Tuttle, natives of Massachusetts and of 
English descent. They married in Berkshire County, Mass., in 1830, moved to 
New York State, and in 1833 came to this county and settled in Shalersville 
Township. They were parents of seven children, all now living. They died at 
the ages of sixty-eight and sixty-four years, respectively. Mr. Sturdevant has 
served in some of the township offices. In politics he is a Republican. 

DR. JAMES WEBB (deceased) was born February 26, 1799, and died in 
Freedom, Portage Co., Ohio, November 9, 1852, in his fifty-fourth year. His 
early life was spent in Corfu, Genesee Co., N. Y. At the age of twelve and 
until he was fifteen he was a great sufferer from a white swelling. Perhaps no 
course of events at any time transpired that had more to do with shaping the 
current of his life than this long illness. Being incapacitated for manual labor, 
his mind naturally was attracted to books and the realm of thought, the out- 
come of which was the study of medicine. At this early period, too, he com- 
menced that life of prayer and trust and patience, which ever after adorned a 
most exemplary Christian character, whose light was always pure and steady, 
and to be trusted. In early manhood he commenced the study of his chosen 
profession, graduating at Batavia, N. Y., Medical College, in 1823. He began 
the practice of medicine at Holley, Orleans Co., N. Y., and it was here he 
formed the acquaintance of Miss Eliza Landfear, with whom he was united in 
marriage, November 27, 1827. Four sons and six daughters were born to this 
union, of whom five were natives of Holley. Here Dr. Webb spent thirteen 
or more of the best years of his life in building up a successful and honorable 
practice. Here too he united with the Masonic fraternity, of which he was an 
honored member, and at the time of his death was a member of Garrettsville 
Lodge, No. 246, F. & A. M. In 1840 he exchanged his village property for a 
home and thirty acres of land in Freedom, Portage Co., Ohio, to which he 
removed with his family in May of that year. One special object in the 
removal was that he might secure land where his boys might find employment 
and still be under home restraints. Here, as in Holley, he built up a good 
practice, the needs of the community commanding his services as a physician 
and surgeon. Here he labored faithfully until he was attacked by that terrible 
disease (cancer on the face) which after many months of intense sufiering ter- 
minated his days, while he heard the call of the Great Physician to "come up 
higher." In his life Dr. Webb was ever known as a Christian physician, and 



^- 











/Xy^-^^ 




GARRETTSVILLE TOAVNSHIP. 723 

was beloved and honored as such. He was a member of the Congregational 
Church at Freedom. His beloved wife, two sons, Warren and Mervin, and 
daughter, Sarah, have already followed him "over the river." Rollin S. Webb, 
Charles B. Webb, Mrs. Dr. Tidball, Mrs. W. S. Wight, Mrs. Warren Peirce, 
and Miss Mary Webb, are all residents of this county and the village of Gar- 
retsville. Mrs. Cornelia Reilley, the eldest, is a resident of Bay City, Mich. 
As a father Dr. Webb was one of the wisest and best, and to his children the 
memory of such a father is of priceless worth. 



GARRETTSVILLE TOWNSHIP. 

JOHN ADAMS, clothier, Garrettsville, was born in Germany, February 26, 
1841, son of John and Gretchen (Tobic) Adams, who were the parents of three 
children: Henry (deceased), John and Harmon (deceased). John Adams, Sr. , 
a brick-maker by trade, died September 6, 1867. His widow survived him until 
November 12, 1883. Our subject received a common school edvication in his 
native country, served three years' apprenticeship to the tailor's trade, and fol- 
lowed that occupation until he came to America. He was married in Germany, 
October 6, 1864, to Miss Mary Bucky, who was born May 12, 1845, and by her 
he had four children: Mary, Gustave, Salena and Ludve, latter of whom died 
on the ocean on their way to America. Mr. Adams on coming to this country 
first located at Nelson Center, this county, where he remained a few months, 
then removed to Garrettsville and engaged in business, and has since con- 
ducted a gents' furnishing store, and from a small beginning his trade has 
gradually increased until he now has the satisfaction of managing a large and 
rapidly growing business. He has traveled quite extensively, visiting twenty- 
one of the States and Territories here, and making a trip to the scenes of his 
boyhood days, Germany, where he has a large circle of relatives living. He 
has been an active member of the Portage Lodge, No. 456, I. O. O. F. , for 
over thirteen years; is also connected with the Y. M. T. C. He is a consistent 
member of the Baptist Church. 

JAMES ASHALD, furniture dealer and undertaker, Garrettsville, is a son 
of Abel and Elizabeth (Wright) Ashald, natives of England, who cameto Amer- 
ica in 1830, and settled at Stockbridge, Mass. They were parents of seven 
children, of whom James is the eldest. Our subject was born in Buckingham- 
shire, England, October 21, 1827. He received a limited education, and in 
early life commenced to learn his trade. He was married, March 19, 1851, to 
Miss Maria Doty, born in Green River, Columbia Co., N. Y., January 11,1832, 
by whom he has two sons: Albert H, station agent of the Union Pacific Rail- 
road at Brainard, Neb., and William W., train dispatcher for the New York, 
Pennsylvania & Ohio Railway at Gallon, Ohio. In 3852 Mr. Ashald went to 
Troy, N. Y., where he remained about four years, and then removed to Gar- 
rettsville, Ohio, and engaged with Manly & Beach, whom he bought out two 
years later. In 1860 the firm became Ashald & Demorest, and remained thus 
four years (they also had a large branch establishment in Youngstown, Ohio). 
In 1864 Mr. Ashald retired and formed a partnership with his brother, with 
whom he remained in business about two years, at the end of which time he 
engaged with E. A. Upham, as salesman. At the death of the latter; the busi- 
ness eventually came into the hands of Mr. Ashald, who has since continued 



724 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

in the same building. He is one of the oldest undertakers in the county, hav- 
ing followed it since ISGO. He has held nearly every ofiSce iu Garrettsville 
and the township: Mayor, Justice of the Peace, member of the School Board, 
School Director, etc., etc. He has been a member of the Congregational 
Church since 1856, and one of the Trustees nearly all that time. During the 
same year he became a member of Garrettsville Lodge, No. 246, F. & A. M. 
In politics he was formerly a Whig, but now a Republican. 

SOLON J. BUTTLES, Postmaster, Garrettsville, was born at Farmington, 
Trumbull Co., Ohio, April 14, 1835; son of Friend and Electa (Payne) Battles, 
natives of Connecticut, who came to Trumbull County, Ohio, in an early day. 
They were the parents of five children: Susan (deceased), Sherlock (deceased), 
Laura (deceased) Zeniah (wife of Homer Chapman, of Rootstown) and Solon 
J. Friend Buttles, a shoe-maker by trade, received his first commission 
as Postmaster of Trumbull County, Ohio, which he held for several years. 
He died January 12, 1858, aged sixty-seven, his wife having preceded him in 
January, 1856. Our subject received a high school education, and early in 
life commenced to learn the trade of manufacturing boots and shoes, and 
eventually embarked in that industry, which he followed until 1861, when, 
owing to ill health, he retired from business for a period of about five years. 
He then removed to Garrettsville and re-entered the manufacturing business, 
which he followed about eight years, since when he has carried on the retail 
trade only. He was married, April 14, 1856, to Miss Mary Davidson, born at 
Farmington, January 22, 1838, daughter of William A. and Margaret (Flem- 
ing) Davidson, natives of western Pennsylvania, and early settlers of Trum- 
bull County, Ohio, both now deceased. To this union were born three children: 
W^illie F. (died at the age of thirteen months), Luetta D. (died in her fifteenth 
year), Elma, born March 16, 1866 (she is her father's assistant in the post- 
oflfice). Mr. Buttles has been successful in business, and the courteous and 
obliging manner with which he has attended to the wants of his customers is 
his chief characteristic in the position he now sustains to the public as Post- 
master, which office he has held to the satisfaction of all since February, 1882, 
at which date he received his appointment. Although always an attendant at 
church, he never became identified with any denomination until three years 
since, when he joined the Congregational Church. He is also an active mem- 
ber of the order of I. O. O. F., No. 456. Our subject cast his first vote for 
J. C. Fremont, and has since been identified with the Republican party. 

MATTHEW D. CLARK, barber, Garrettsville, was born in Ireland, 
August 15, 1849, son of Michael and Jane (Sands) Clark, of Farmington, Ohio, 
who had a family of eight children, five now living: Mary, Matthew, Kate, 
Anna, and John, who married Celia Johnson (have three children: Elser J., 
Elton P. and Claud, deceased). Our subject received a common school edu- 
cation in his native land, and in 1864 came to America with his mother, 
brothers and sisters to join his father, who had preceded them seven years, 
locating at Farmington, Trumbull Co., Ohio. Our subject enlisted in Company 
D, Sixth Ohio Cavalry, and on March 31, 1865, in the battle at Dinwiddle 
Court House, Va., he was wounded, and a week later his left leg was ampu- 
tated by Dr. D. W. Bliss, Surgeon of the Army Hospital at Washington, D. 
C. After his discharge from the service he attended school a short time, then 
began to work at his trade, having learned it in Ireland. He was married, 
October 18, 1868, to Miss Alvira Johnson, born in Copley, Ohio, March 14, 
1850, daughter of Fayette and Eliza (Tayloi-) Johnson. By this union there is 
one daughter — Maud J., born April 14, 1873. Since locating in Garrettsville 
Mr, Clark has here remained continuously, with the exception of three years 



GARRETTSVILLE TOWNSHIP. 725 

spent in Akron, Ohio. He has been a member of Portage Lodge, No. 456, I. O. 
O. F., about nine years; also of the Encampment at Ravenna, and of Buckley 
Post, G. A. R., of Akron. 

JEDEDIAH COLE, civil engineer and County Surveyor, Garrettsville, 
was born in Nelson Township, this county, May 26, 1830; son of Jedediah and 
Elizabeth (Noah) Cole, the former a native of Vermont, born in 1797, the lat- 
ter of Chester County, Penn., born in 1802. They were parents of four chil- 
dren, three of whom are still living: Rebecca J., wife of Uriah Craig, of Kid- 
der, Mo.; William C, a farmer, also in Missouri, and our subject. Jedediah 
Cole, Sr. , was a carpenter in early life. He came to this county in 1816. and 
for a year or two worked at his trade, but for the balance of his life he was 
engaged in farming. He was a prominent man in religious circles, being one 
of the few to organize the Disciples Church. His death occurred May 10, 
1850. His wife died August 5, 1834. Our subject in early life was employed 
in attending the neighboring schools and rendering what assistance he could 
to his parents on the homestead farm. He was married, September 6, 1855, 
to Miss Katie M. Dickens, who was born Mai'ch 18, 1833, at Jacksonville, 111., 
by whom he had five children: Augustus S. (an attorney at Ravenna, Ohio), 
Helen (deceased), James D., Katie E. and Paul H. Mr. Cole entered upon his 
career in life as a school teacher at Salem, 111., where he remained until 1856; 
then for two years was in northern Iowa engaged in different enterprises, such 
as merchandising, contracting and land surveying, and while there he did his 
first work as land surveyor. From this point he went to Prairie du Chien, 
Wis., where he was employed principally in building and teaching. While 
there the war broke out, and he responded to the first call for men in 1862, 
enlisting in Company A., Thirty-first Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, and was 
mustered out in November, 1864, for promotion to Captaincy in the One Hun- 
dred and Twenty-third U. S. C. I., and was honorably discharged as such at 
the close of the Rebellion, after which he retired to his home in Ohio and 
embarked in lumbering, in which he continued till the fall of 1869, when he 
was elected to the ofiice of County Surveyor, a j^sition he still retains. He 
has served one term as Justice of the Peace, and has held the same ofiice in 
Iowa and Wisconsin. Has also served as Clerk of the Board of Education two 
terms. In addition to his labors as County Surveyor he is engaged in collect- 
ing and in real estate business. Mr. Cole is a F. & A. M. 

EDWARD L. DAVIS, grocer, Garrettsville, was born in Shropshire, 
England, March 8, 1840, and was brought to America when eleven years of 
age by his father, Ellis Davis. They first located in Ravenna, and from there 
went to Hiram Rapids, where they lived a few years. Ellis Davis, who was a 
miller by trade, clied in Garrettsville September 3, 1865; his wife died in 
England about 1843. Their children were two in number: Ellis, who is in the 
insurance business in Cleveland, Ohio, and Edward L. Our subject received 
a common school education, and early in life began to work at the miller's 
trade. He was twice married, on first occasion November 3, 1861, to Ann 
Ferry, who died August 19, 1875, leaving to his care two children: Mary G. 
and Ellis F. Mr. Davis was again married March 23, 1876, this time to 
Emma L. Morgan (widow of H. Morgan, of Hartsgrove Township, by whom 
she had one daughter — Maud, now living with her stepfather). By this 
union there were two girls: Grace and Daisy. Mrs. Davis died October IS, 
1880. Our subject in 1861 took charge of the grist-mill at Garrettsville and 
five years later purchased an interest in the same, but in 1880, owing to the 
effects of dust on his lungs, he was forced to retire from milling. He then pur- 
chased an interest in a grocery, but two years later again gave up active busi- 



726 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

ne5s. The following year be purchased a stock of groceries, and is still 
engaged in that business. Mr. Davis has served the people as City Clerk two 
terms, and on the Board of Education three years. He is an active member 
of Portage Lodge, I. O. O. F. 

JAMES DUNN, farmer, P. O. Garrettsville, whose portrait appears in 
this volume, was born October 11, 1822, in Hartford, Windsor Co., Vermont. 
His father, James Dunn, was a native of Massachusetts, and early engaged in 
brick making. When over thirty years old he went to Vermont, where he 
was employed in the manufacture of brick for a Mr. Udall, and while there 
was married to Mary Udall, a niece of his employer, and with her, in 1832, 
moved to this county, settling on the farm where their son, our subject, now 
resides, and there remained until their death. The father died in 1858 and 
the mother in 1864. He (the father) had some reverses financially before his 
marriage, having lost the first $500 which be had saved by economy, but such 
vicissitudes only served to make them more ambitious, and prosperity was the 
outcome of their efforts. They had seven children: William, a resident of 
Troy, Ohio; Mary, married to Albert Gage (they reside in Freedom Township, 
this county); Belinda, mai-ried to Benjamin Baker (they reside in Crawford 
County, Penn.); James; Amanda, married to James M. Bowman; Cosmo 
L. (deceased), and Rachel (deceased). Our subject was taken from the 
summer schools when ten years old to assist his father ifi farm duties, and 
was permitted to attend .school during winter terms until 1844-45, during 
which period be was a student in the Troy, Ohio, schools. He was the only 
son to remain closely associated with his parents in their farm labors, and was 
given the greater portion of their property in return for his labor and care of 
them in their old age, and to this he has added until he now ranks among the 
well to-do men of this county, having 180 acres of well-improved land lying 
part within and part adjacent to the village of Garrettsville. He also owns a 
good share in the old bank building and the livery stable where Truesdall now 
conducts a general livery business, Mr. Dunn being partial owner of the stock. 
At one time he was interested in banking. During bis farming and business 
career he has been fortunate, scarcely meeting any reverses. On bis beautiful 
farm be has some fine Holstein cattle. October 14, 1846, Mr. Dunn was mar- 
ried to Armona S. Reed, who died March 31, 1873, and to this union were 
born the following children: Elma E., married to Charles Truesdall; Mary 
A., married to James VanHorn, and George J., recent graduate of the Gar- 
rettsville High School. Our subject was married, February 3, 1874, on second 
occasion, to Cordelia S., widow of Dr. O. Manley. Garrettsville has been an 
incorporated village for twenty years, and as an appreciation of Mr. Dunn's 
ability and judgment, the citizens have retained him as a member of the 
CoiTUcil for eighteen years; be has also been interested in the public schools, 
and is a member of the School Board. In politics be is a Republican. Mr. 
Dunn, in his lifetime, has experienced some miraculous escapes from sudden 
death or serious injury. About the year 1860 he was driving an ambitious 
borso attached to a sulky, and while moving at a rapid rate by the farm of 
Zeb. Rudolph, the father of Mrs. James A. Garfield, the animal became 
frightened at a load of straw, and made a sudden bound to one side, breaking 
the axle and throwing Mr. Dunn with such force against the fence or ground 
as to render him unconscious from that time, 3 o'clock P. M. , till 4 o'clock A. 
M. the next day. Within ten days be was back to bis farm duties. At another 
time he was clearing debris from bis farm well, and the bucket, in which the 
dirt, etc., were drawn up, became detached from the rope when about twenty 
feet above him, and descended with tremendous force, just glancing off bis 



GARRETTSVILLE TOWNSHIP. 727 

head and inflicting an ugly incision, fracturing the frontal bone in three 
directions. In three weeks he was himself again. In October, 1883, our 
subject was engaged inserting blinds in a cupola of his barn, and by a misstep 
he fell down a three-eighth pitch roof with rafters about sixteen feet long, and 
to the ground, a distance of twenty-seven feet from the eave, and eleven feet 
from the sill. It was nearly one hour before his hired hand fovmd him in an 
unconscious condition, covered with blood, and leaning against a trough about 
eleven feet from where he struck the ground. The depression in the earth 
showed that he struck on his toes and head, within eighteen inches apart. It 
was the spring in his toes which saved his head from utter destruction, and it 
appears as an act of Providence he received no serious injury. The bones in 
one foot were broken, which was his only hurt, and he is now hale and hearty. 

OSMON S. FERRIS, attorney, Garrettsville, was born in Versailles, 
Wyandot Co., Ohio, June 1, 1843, son of Osmon and Lydia (Streator) Ferris, 
natives of Portage County, Ohio, and who shortly after marriage removed to 
Wyandot County. Both are now deceased. The former, who was a practicing 
physician of Mantua, Ohio, died October 10, 1884 Our subject for sometime 
attended the Eclectic Institute, of Hiram, and then entered Hillsdale College, 
of Michigan, where he graduated in 1870. While not engaged with his studies 
he taught school, and in 1872 graduated from the law schools of Cleveland, 
Ohio. In January of the year following he came to Garrettsville, this county, 
and entered upon the practice of his profession. Mr. Ferris was married 
November 9, 1876, to Miss Ellen Rhinehart, of Union, Cass Co., Mich., born 
October 9, 1853, daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth Rhinehart, natives of Vir- 
ginia and Ohio respectively. By this union there are two sons: Arthur R., 
born September 4, 1879, and Mark S., born April 27, 1884. Mr. Ferris was 
elected to the office of Prosecuting Attorney in 1877 and filled that office one 
term, during which he prosecuted the case of Ohio vs. Mathew Powers, who 
was convicted of manslaughter. In this case Mr. Ferris was assisted by 
Alfonzo Hart, ex-Lieutenant Governor of Ohio. The opposing counsel were 
John McSweeney, of Wooster, and W. B. Thomas and I. T. Siddall, of Ravenna. 
Our subject has been twice Mayor of Garrettsville, has also served as Clerk 
and Solicitor, and is now holding his third commission as Notary. He is a 
member of Garrettsville Lodge, No. 246, F. & A. M. 

ASEL C. HAWLEY, retired farmer, Garrettsville, was born December 9, 
1814, in Berkshire County, Mass., eldest of the family of seven children of 
Asel and Esther (Clark) Hawley, natives of Massachusetts, who came to this 
county in 1829, when our subject was fifteen years of age, and settled in Free- 
dom Township. Here Asel C. grew to manhood, fully acquainted with the 
hardships and privations incident to pioneer life. His education was limited 
to what could be obtained in the common schools of that early date. Mr. 
Hawley was married in 1836, to Sarah M. Gross, of Grantville, Conn., who 
died October 5, 1874. He was married on second occasion, July 1, 1875, to 
Betsey Clark, of Collins, Erie Co., N. Y., who was born October 2, 1831. Our 
subject entered upon his career in life as a farmer, and has always followed 
this pursuit, until 1874, when he retired from active labor, and removed to 
Garrettsville, Ohio, the better to enjoy the fruits of a well spent life. He 
was ever an energetic, enterprising man, and considered one of the practical 
as well as substantial farmers of Freedom Township. 

N. WRIGHT LEEZER, photographer, was born in Noble County, Ohio, 
November 12, 1859, son of William C. and Sarah E. (Hill) Leezer, natives of 
Morgan County, Ohio, the former of whom is a mechanic and pattern-maker 
by trade, at present engaged with his son in the photographing business. They 



728 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

were parents of three children: Wright, Maud and Ella (deceased when but 
three years of age). The subject of our sketch was brought by his parents to 
Athens, Athens Co., Ohio, where he received but a common school educa- 
tion. Mr. Leezer's first business enterprise was manufacturing confectionery, 
but he eventually gave that up and learned photography. He first entered this 
industrj' in Athens Ohio. In order to perfect himself in, the art, he soon 
entered a large studio at Logan, Hocking Co., Ohio. The 'following year 
he removed to Attica, Seneca Co., Ohio, where he stayed for about one year, 
then returned to Athens, Ohio. In 1S82 he came to Garrettsville, Ohio, and 
entered the employ of C. M. French, photographer. In 1884 he embarked in 
the photographing business for himself and has since followed the art with 
good success. In 1883 he became a member of Portage Lodge, No. 456, I. O. 
O. F., and is one of the charter members of the Young Men's Temperance 
Council (Y. M. T. C). Religiously he is a member of the Congregational Church. 
He was married August 13, 1884, to Almeda Stearn, who was born in Salem, 
Columbiana Co., Ohio, October 22, 1859. 

EDGAR W. INIAXSON, lawyer, Garrettsville, was born at Troy, Geauga 
Co., Ohio, [February 3, 1844; son of AYilJiam and SalinaC. (Mumford) Maxson; 
the former a farmer by occupation, born in Connecticut, in 1813, and who came 
with his parents to this county in 1822; the latter a native of Otsego County, 
N. Y., where she was born in 1820. They had two children: Edgar W., and 
Victor R., a farmer now living on the old home farm in Hiram Township. 
William Maxson died September 20, 1876. The Maxson family are of English 
descent. Daniel Maxson was one of three bi'others: Edward, John and Daniel, 
who came to America about the middle of the seventeenth century and settled 
in Rhode Island, where Joshiia Maxson, the grandfather of our subject, was 
born. His grandmother was a Morris, and was a descendant of a Welsh family 
of that name who date back to the early pioneers of New York State. Our 
subject was raised on a farm in Hiram Township, where his parents removed 
while he was an infant. His time between the ages of ten and seventeen years 
was spent in Hiram College and in school teaching. In 1863 he went to 
Michigan University at Ann Arbor and graduated from the Law and Literary 
Department in 1865, and was admitted, to the bar in that State the same year. 
He then returned to Ohio and was shortly after admitted to the bar, but for 
three years following was engaged in teaching graded schools in Michigan and 
Illinois. He was married November 27, 1867, to Miss Elizabeth C. Mull, a 
school teacher by profession, and a native of Otsego County, N. Y., who died 
September 10, 1875, leaving to his care one daughter-Maud. Mr. Maxson then 
married, December 14, 1876, Miss Eudora Lockwood, also of Otsego County. 
N. Y'^., and a near relative of his first wife. In the spring of 1868 he returned 
to Garrettsville and entered in the practice of his profession, in which he has 
since been engaged. He has been Solicitor of Garrettsville for seven years 
and has refused several offices of honor, which at different times he has been 
urged by his friends to accept. He is Past Grand of Portage Lodge, No. 456, I. 
O. O. F., and an active member of Garrettsville Lodge, No. 246, F. & A. M. He 
has been connected with the Congregational Church about four years. 

HENRY NOBLE MERWIN, produce dealer, Garrettsville, was born in 
New Milford, Litchfield Co., Conn., February 25, 1818; son of Daniel and 
Laura (Marsh) Merwin, who were of Welsh and English descent respectively 
(both now deceased) and parents of four children: Susan A., Abbie M., Henry 
N. and Amos M. The Marsh family were among the first settlers of New Milford, 
Conn. Amos Marsh, grandfather of our subject, was commissioned District 
Attorney of Vermont by George Washington. Our subject was raised 



GARRETTSVILLE TOWNSHIP. 729 

on a farm and received a common school education. He was married November 
27, 1845, to Miss Betsey N. Hino, born February 11, 1822, daughter of Isaac 
and Alta (Riggs) Hine, both now deceased, all natives of New England. 
In 1850 Mr. Merwin removed to Newton Falls, Trumbull Co., Ohio, where he 
engaged in farming for a period of twenty-two years. In 1873 he retired from 
farm labor and removed to Garrettsville, where he purchased a manufacturincr 
establishment, formed a partnership with three others, and engaged in manufact- 
uring butter tubs, etc., for one year. Since then he has dealt more or less 
extensively in produce. Mr. Merwin is serving his second term as Justice of 
the Peace. He and his wife have been consistent members of the Congrega- 
tional Church for forty years. He is connected with Portage Lodge, No. 456, 
I. O. O. F. In politics he is identified with the Republican party. 

OTIS S. NEWCOMB, retired farmer, Garretsville, was born in Ontario 
County, N. Y., March 13, 1814; eldest child of Orrin and Pamelia (Robison) 
Newcomb, natives of New York and Connecticut respectively, and who had a 
family of twelve childrem. Orrin Newcomb, who was an early settler of 
Geauga County, Ohio, a farmer and shoe maker by occupation, died in 1836. 
His widow died in 1878, aged eighty-iive years. Our subject was raised on a 
farm and obtained a limited education. His parents removed to Geauga 
County, Ohio, in October, 1818, and he grew to maturity fully acquainted with 
the vicissitudps of pioneer life. He entered on his career of life as a farmer, and 
followed agricultural pursuits until 1873, when he retired from active labor 
and removed to Garrettsville, where he built a tine residence in which he now 
resides. He was married in November, 1841, to Mary A. Wright, of Geauga 
County, Ohio, born in 1819 and died in 1864, the mother of five children: 
Selah W. (died in Perry ville, Ky. , October 8, 1862); Neri, engaged in the 
Buckeye Works at Akron, Ohio; Wallace E. and Andrew B., farmers, and Aurie 
v., wife of W. S. Freeman. Mr. Newcomb married on second occasion, Octo- 
ber, 1864, Lucy A. Chapman, who died March 2, 1884, leaving to his care 
two children, George A. and Gertie A. Our subject has never been a politi- 
cian or office seeker, but has been content with the plain home life of a farmer. 
He may be considered a self-made man, and was one of the practical as well as 
substantial farmers of Geauga County, Ohio. He is a member of Garrettsville 
Lodge, F. & A. M. 

JAMES NORTON, real estate, insurance and collection agent, and Notary 
Public, Garrettsville, was born September 9, 1833. His parents were then living 
in a log-house on their farm, on the west part of Lot 29, in Hiram. At an early 
day the homestead was changed to a farm on Lot 49, in the south part of Hiram 
Township, Here the subject of our sketch passed his childhood and youth, 
except four or five of his earlier years. When thirteen years of age a great 
misfortune came upon him, the result, as supposed, of being thrown from a 
horse about a year before. For several months his life hung upon such 
a slender thread that the community were in daily expectation of hearing 
that he had passed away. A surgical operation was performed upon the 
injured limb December 31, 1846, by Dr. De Wolf, of Ravenna. Not until 
the spring following did it appear that he could possibly survive the fearful 
attack disease had made upon him; an iron constitution alone was in his favor. 
For three years his health was so poor, and his disability so great, that he 
did not attend school at all. At sixteen, his health being still very far 
from good, he recommenced his studies at the district school in Freedom, 
about one and a half miles from home, to and from which he walked with 
crutch and cane. The advancement of those who had been his class-mates and 
associates before his sickness, caused a very dark cloud to envelop him. To 



730 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

hear them recite about numerator and denominator, reduction ascending and 
descending, and use other terms which it seemed to him he could never 
comprehend or understand, brought humiliation, sorrow and weeping. En- 
ergetic and determined application to his books soon dispelled the darkness 
and gloom, and at the close of the term he was fully up with his class. There- 
after every resource available for improvement was made use of, and at the 
commencement of the autumn term in 1851, he was permitted to enter the 
"Western Reserve Eclectic Institute, well advanced in the common branches. 
During this term a physician, learning of the existence of an unhealing and 
dangerous sore of some years' standing, upon an arm of our subject, engaged 
with his father for a stipulated price to effect a cure. After about six months 
the doctor's efforts were rewarded with permanent success. The acquaintance 
with young Dr. Smith (who died the next year) our subject looks back 
upon as being of the highest importance to him. About a year later, after 
three terms' attendance at the Eclectic Institute, he engaged as teacher of a 
district school in Freedom, on the Freedom and Ravenna diagonal road. After 
this and until the close of the year 1861, his time was occupied in attending school 
and in teaching. Most of the time he attended school at Hiram, but one term he 
attended the academy at Shalersville. He took a commercial course at the col- 
lege in Cleveland, and took lessons in penmanship of P. R. Spencer, Sr. , at his 
log-writing academy in Geneva, Ohio. He taught the district school at the center 
of Shalersville three terms, taught two terms in different districts in Hiram, and 
in 1858 commenced as teacher in Garrettsville, and there remained as teacher 
of the fall and winter terms until December, 1861, when he resigned as teacher 
to enter the Recorder's office at Ravenna, to which the citizens of the county 
had elected him in October by a proud majority. Much of his day school 
work was supplemented by evening lessons given in penmanship. Of his 
services as Recorder we find the Portage County Republican- Democrat of 
January 8, 1868, speaking as follows: "Mr. James Norton retired from official 
connection with the County Recorder's office on Monday, after a six years' term 
of service. Mr. Norton has proved himself a model Recorder, and there is no 
risk in pronouncing his records as handsome and accurate as any in the State. 
Mr. Norton entered upon the duties of this office January 6, 1862, and up to 
January 6, 1868, has recorded 6,302 deeds, 2,039 mortgages, 134 leases, 409 
soldiers' discharge papers, and released 1,705 mortgages. When it is taken 
into consideration that every deed, mortgage, etc., contains, say, 700 words, 
some estimate of the amount of work performed may be arrived at. In the 
entire six years Mr. Norton has not been absent from his office one single busi- 
ness day, and has made nearly all the records himself." Our subject declined to 
go into the convention as candidate for a third term, because there were several 
disabled soldiers seeking the place at that time. The suddenness of the change 
from years of close application to business to days of leisure, subdued the 
anticipated enjoyment and comfort of the latter. A line of business did not 
readily open up to our subject. He therefore spent the summer and autumn 
of 1868 in reviewing his studies at the Commercial College in Cleveland. It 
was his desire and purpose to go into the real estate agency business in the 
city, but as no satisfactory opportunity presented itself or was found, he 
engaged with others, in the winter of 1868-69, in organizing a banking insti- 
tution at Garrettsville, and for a time was its Cashier. The perils incident to 
banking in those days, added to other harassing features then existing, were a 
severe strain upon his undisciplined and overly sensitive nerves, and he with- 
drew from the business, one of the acts of his life, as he says, upon which he 
looks back with regret. A vacancy having occurred in the superintendency of 




^yynnX(^<j^ ^ ^:^<Le<yiy^^d^^^->^-x^ 



GARRETTSVILLE TOWNSHIP. 733 

the Garrettsville schools in the midst of a school year, he engaged as Super- 
intendent and occupied that position four terms. Subsequently he has twice 
been elected Justice of the Peace, twice as Mayor of the incorporated village 
of Garrettsville, four times as member of the Board of Education, and has also 
been Clerk of the Board many years. He has often acted as Executor, 
Administrator, Assignee and Guardian in the settlement and management of 
estates. In politics Mr. Norton is Republican. In 1S48 he united with the 
Disciple Church at Hiram, and had his membership with that denomination 
at Hiram and at Ravenna. There has been no Disciple Church in active 
working condition in Garrettsville for several years, and he has therefore 
worshiped with the Baptists, the church wherein his wife was reared. For five 
years he was Superintendent of the Baptist Sunday-school, and for many more 
years was teacher of the Bible class. December 17, 1859, he was married to 
Miss Ann Eliza Taber, at the home of her parents in Garrettsville, which was 
also the home of her birth. Her father, John Taber, was born in Providence, 
R. I., April 29, 1798, and died suddenly when on his way to worship, March 
12, 1871. Her mother, whose maiden name was Mary Henrietta Greene, a rel- 
ative of Gen. Gi'eene, of Revolutionary note, was born in Barre, Mass., June 
21, 1799, and died June 2, 1884, in Garrettsville, in the house where she had 
lived a little more than half a century. John Taber and Mary H. Greene 
were married in Pi'ovidence, R. I., October 19, 1819. Mr. Taber was cai'pen- 
ter on board of ship, and made some very long sea voyages. His ship was at 
Callao when Bolivar entered Peru with his Columbian Army. They took a 
ship load of royalists to Cadiz, Spain, with immense quantities of gold and 
silver. This was a six years' voyage, mostly in South American waters. The 
next was a three years' voyage, chiefly doing a coasting business in European 
seas. In early life Mr. and Mrs. Taber were members of the First Baptist 
Church of Providence, which was founded by Roger Williams. They moved 
to Ohio in 1829, and after a residence of four years in Mogadore, Summit 
County, they moved to Garrettsville. Mr. Taber spent about three and a half 
years among the gold mines of California, starting for that then far-away 
country in the spring of 1850. Mr. and Mrs. Taber were the parents of four 
children: Mary Henrietta, born November 15, 1829; John Herman, born 
August 10, 1832; James Hunter, born June 21, 1835, and Ann Eliza, born 
September 23, 1837. The first three, after living to mature years, deceased 
before their parents. Mary Henrietta (Mrs. Dr. A. M. Sherman) died in Gar- 
rettsville, October 26, 1853; John Herman died in Council Blufifs, Iowa, 
November 8, 1856, and James Hunter died in Adrian, Mich., December 5, 
1866. Three sons have been born to Mr. and Mrs. James Norton. The first 
born died in infancy and is buried in Maple Grove Cemetery, Ravenna; James 
Edgar was born in Ravenna March 18, 1866; John Herman was born in Garretts- 
ville February 12, 1869. James Edgar graduated from the Garrettsville High 
School in 1883; the subject of his graduation oration was " The Heirs of the 
Ages." He is now upon a classical course at Hiram College. John Herman is 
still (1885) in the Garrettsville High School. There is a chart and record of the 
Norton families reaching back nineteen generations. Originally the nam« was 
Norville, a corruption of the French "Nord-Ville" (North- Villa or North-Town), 
and Nor-ton or Norton was subsequently adopted. The family have published a 
pamphlet showing the Norton families back seven generations. This is as far 
back as most people care to trace the ancestral line. To those, however, Avhose 
curiosity may lead them, the chart and record is accessible, although but few 
copies are known to the families here to be in existence. Thuel Norton was 
born at New Hartford, Oneida Co., N. Y., March 10, 1801. He was third son 

38 



734 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

of Peter and Elthina (Thompson) Norton. He died in Hiram, April 2, 1880, 
in a few hours after, and from injuries received by, being thrown from a buggy 
by a runaway horse. When he was six years old his parents moved to Ohio, 
stopping two years in Vernon, Trumbull County, a short time in Tallmadge, 
and then located permanently in Springfield, then in Portage County, but now 
Summit Coanty, a short distance east of Middlebuiy, the old home farm 
being still occupied by his brother Thomas. Here Thuel grew from childhood 
to manhood. Where the city of Akron is now was dense forest then. He shot 
his first deer upon the hillside in the vicinity of where Howard Street is now. 
At hunting large game, however, he was never as successful as his older brother, 
Almeron, although for a close shot he had no superior in those days. He learned 
the carpenter's trade, and put up many buildings in and about Middlebury and 
Tallmadge. He was an expert at scoring and hewing timber, and in " bossing 
raisings." He was a man of powerful muscle, and often would astonish the 
people at "raisings," by picking up and carrying to its place a stick of tim- 
ber that ordinarily would require two men to carry. As a framer of timber 
he was notably a close workman. At Hiram, August 4, 1822, Thuel Norton 
was married to Harriet Rebecca Harrington, who was born July 15, 1803, at 
Salisbury, Litchfield Co., Conn., but the most of whose childhood and youth 
was passed in Utica and Rochester, N. Y. Her father's name was John Har- 
rington, and her mother's maiden name was Asenath Marvin. Her father was 
a boot and shoe-maker, and lived in Hiram a short time, nearly sixty years 
ago. Her mother is buried in the family lot at Hiram. John and Asenath Har- 
rington were the parents of a large family of children. One year Mr. and 
Mrs. Norton resided in Rootstown, this county, nine years in Springfield, 
Summit County, and in 1832 they moved to Hiram, first locating on a farm 
on the West center road, but subsequently moved to the south part of the town- 
ship, and there lived upon a farm many years. Although Mr. Norton preferred 
the carpenter's trade to farming, he gradually quit the former and took up the 
latter. But his fondness for timber work was somewhat gratified by operating 
a saw-mill which he had upon one of his farms. It was more of a diversion, 
however, than a money-making business. When old age had come upon Mr. and 
Mrs. Norton, they left their home farm and lived the remainder of their years 
at the center of Hiram. In August, 1880, Mrs. Norton went to visit a son and 
a daughter in Garrettsville, and while at the home of the latter she became 
worse and died in the evening of August 30. Their remains rest in the family 
lot in Hiram Cemetery. Thuel and Harriet R. Norton were the parents of ten 
children, as follows: Anna, born October 21, 1823; Seth D., born August 19, 
1825; Edwin, born July 16, 1827, and died September 8, 1827; Amelia C, 
born January 4, 1829; Julia M., born April 24, 1831; James, born September 
9, 1833; Lois E., born November 28, 1835, and died in Trenton, Mo., April 
27, 1866; Emily E., born May 6, 1838; Richard C, born June 16, 1840, and 
Harriet R., born January 28, 1846, Seth D. is an attorney- at- law, living in 
Ravenna. Richard C. is President of South East State Normal, at Cape Gir- 
ardeau, Mo. 

R. H. OBER, Mayor and furniture dealer, Garrettsville, was born Octo- 
ber 30, 1849, in Newbury, Geauga Co., Ohio, son of Hermon and Hannah 
(Hall) Ober, former born August 15, 1806, in Hollis, N. H.. died August 20, 
1862, coming to Ohio when a young man; the latter born August 10, 1808, in 
Salem, N. H., and is still living. They were parents of eight children: John, 
born in 1832; Almira, in 1833; Sarah, in 1836; George, in 1838; Melissa, in 
1840; Charles, in 1845; Mary, in 1847, and R. H. The parents were Congre- 
gationalists. Zachariah Ober, the father of Hermon, was born in 1775 in 



GARRETTSVILLE TOWNSHIP. 735 

Tewksbury, Mass., and married xlbigail Hardy, born in 1775 in the same 
State. Our subject remained on the farm, attending the conntry schools, and 
worked in a machine shop with his brothers, John and George, until eighteen 
years of age when he entered school at Hillsdale, Mich. He soon after bought 
one-half interest in a saw-mill with his brother-in-law, C. W. Wright, and 
assisted in operating the same at Newbury for three years. He then engaged 
in shipping lumber with his brother, C. H., until 1874, when, August 20, that 
year, he was married to Martha Patterson, born August 20, 1855, in Troy, 
Ohio, daughter of Nelson Patterson, born May 12, 1812, in Hanover, N. Y. , 
and Eliza (Wales) Patterson, born April 8. 1812, in Gettysburg, Penn., parents 
of six children: Avery, born July 9, 1834, and died October 10, 1863, at 
Chattanooga, Tenn. , of a wound received at the battle of Chickamauga Septem- 
ber 19, 1863; Francis, born August 16, 1836; William, born September 30, 1841; 
Zylphia, born November 20, 1847; Mary, born November 15, 1849, and Martha. 
The mother was a member of the Disciples Church, and both parents are de- 
ceased. To our subject and wife were born four children: Edna, born August 6, 
1876; Ethel, born January 5. 1879; Harmon, born December 29, 188l;"Elgy^ 
born December 16, 1883. Soon after marriage Mr. Ober came to Garretts- 
ville and opened a furniture store on a small scale. By economy and strict 
attention to business he has been enabled to add to his enterprise until he now 
owns one of the best establishments of the kind in Portage County. In 1884 
he was nominated by the Prohibitionists for Mayor of Garrettsville, endorsed 
by the Citizens' Convention, and was elected. He has served the city well in 
that honorable position. He united with the Congregational Church when 
twelve years old, and has held various offices in the organization; is at pres- 
ent Superintendent of the Sunday-school. He is a member of the Y. M. T. 
C, and has held the highest office in the same. His estimable wife is also a 
worthy member of the Congregational Church. Mr. Ober is in the prime of 
life, and the various positions his talents may merit his being called to by his 
neighbors and friends will be chronicled in the coming years. 

THOMAS REED, policeman, Garrettsville, was born in Ireland, August 
13, 1823, son of W^illiam and Margaret (Nelson) Eeed. natives of that coun- 
try, who were the parents of seven children, of whom Thomas is the youngest. 
He came to America in 1842, and located in Philadelphia, where he remained 
two years engaged in wharf building. He then came to Geauga County, Ohio, 
and hired to a man for five years as a farm hand. He purchased a small farm 
near Cleveland in 1854, but sold it six years later and bought a still larger 
farm in Trumbull County, where he remained until 1873, when he came to Gar- 
rettsville with the intention of retiring from active labor, but for a year or two 
dealt in stock. In 1855 he married Miss Caroline A. Pierce, of Geauga County, 
Ohio, and by her has three children: Marc A., a graduate of Scio College, who 
has taught school nine years, and is at present Superintendent of Schools is 
Girard, Ohio; Delia, also a school teacher for six years, and who is a graduate 
of the Garrettsville schools, and Guy W. Mr. Reed received an appointment 
by the Council as Night Policeman, and has held that position nine years, and 
has also served as Constable five years. In April, 1880, while trying to qxiiet 
a drunken row he received a blow on the head, fracturing his skull, from which 
six pieces of bone were taken. It was a narrow escape, but he still continues 
to keep the peace in the streets of Garrettsville to the full satisfaction of the 
people. He is a member of Garrettsville Lodge, No. 246, F. & A M. 

E. C. SMITH, hardware merchant, Garrettsville, was born October 19, 
1829, in Hart's Grove, Ashtabula County, Ohio. His father*, Norman Smith, 
was born in 1801 in Sherburne, Yt, and came to Parkman, Ohio, in 1818, and 



736 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

later to Nelson Township, this county, where he died in iSoO. His wife, the 
mother of our subject, was Sallie M. Hickok, born in New York State, and 
who came to Ohio in 1820. She is now living in Manchester, 111., with a 
daughter. She is the mother of the following children: E. C. ; M. H., a phy- 
sician in Manchester, 111.; Maria L., wife of H. C. Crawford, and living at 
Troy, Ohio; Ellen, wife of S. C. Bates, in Clinton, Iowa; Mary A., widow of 
James Guthrie; George D., residing in Garrettsville; Sarah, wife of Jefferson 
McConnell, i-esiding in Manchester, 111. Our subject, who was educated in the 
country schools and township academy, began teaching when twenty years old 
at $16 per month. He farmed for a while, and later clerked in a drug store 
at Garrettsville. January 27, 1852, he, in company with Ebenezer Earl and 
others, went to the gold mines in California, remaining there five years. He 
was married, August 27, 1857, to Marion B. McClintock, born July 4, 1829, 
in Trumbull County, Ohio, daughter of William McClintock, born in White- 
hall, N. Y., in 1793, and Chloe (Ferry) McCbntock, born in 1798 in Brooktield, 
Orange Co., Vt., and came with her parents to Trumbull County, Ohio, in 
1814. They came to this county in 1832, settling in Garrettsville, where they 
died, the father August 7, 1873, and the mother June 17, 1878. They were 
members of the Baptist Church. The father had been a teamster in the war of 
1812. They were parents of nine children, of whom six are now living: Polly, 
Sallie, Marion B., Helen, John C. and William W. In 1858 Mr. Smith 
engaged in the hardware business in Garrettsville under the firm name of 
Barber & Smith, and has been very successful. He began his career in life 
with a willing heart and strong hands, and of the large amount of property 
which he possesses in hardware, mines, bank stock, etc., he is certainly the 
artificer. He has served as Mayor and Councilman of Garrettsville, and has 
been put forward at times by his friends for the Legislature, a position he may 
yet covet, and one he would surely fill with honor to himself and credit to his 
constituents He has been Vice President of the First National Bank of 
Garrettsville since 1870, and is also a Director in the same. In politics he is a 
Kepublican. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and is a K. T. Portage 
County has but few, if any, more substantial, upright and honest citizens 
than him whose name heads this biography, and whose portrait appears else- 
where. 

ELIAS C. SWEET, drayman, Garrettsville, was born in Summit County, 
Ohio, February 14, 1835; seventh in a family of eight children born to Alfred 
and Clarissa (Capron) Sweet, the former of whom, a native of Pennsylvania, 
came to Ohio *in 1824 and died October 14, 1872, his wife having preceded 
him in 1838. Our subject early in life learned the cooper's tx'ade and opened 
a shop in Bath, Summit Co., Ohio, where he remained four years, thence went 
to Copley, same county, and two years later to Wellington, Lorain County, 
and from thence to New London, Huron County, where he built the first 
cooper shop in the place. During the late war of the Rebellion he enlisted in 
the 100 daysj* service in Company B, Nineteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and 
after his return home he married, September 22, 1861, Delia J. Niles, born in 
Lorain County, Ohio, May 22, 1842, daughter of Albert and Sophia (Love- 
land) Niles, natives of Massachusetts and early settlers of Lorain County. 
Mr. Sweet subsequently returned to Bath, Ohio, and farmed in connection with 
his trade. In 1869 he removed to Garrettsville, this county, and worked as a 
carpenter and cooper. He then spent a year on a dairy farm in Nelson Town- 
ship, this county, and finally returned to Garrettsville, to his present place of. 
residence. Here he has a small farm, and is engaged in the express and dray 
business, and since 1882 has carried the mail from trains to the postoffice. 
He has been a member of the I. O. O. F. about nine years. 



GARRETTSVILLE TOWNSHIP. 737 

CHARLES A. THAYER, Justice of the Peace, Garrettsville, was born in 
Williamsburg, Mass., February 10, 1825; son of Jacob and Sarah (Porter) 
Thayer, the former a native of Braintree, Mass., born January 25, 1793, the 
latter born in Hampshire County. Mass., in 1795. They removed to this county 
in 1832, settling in Freedom Township, where they passed the remainder of 
their lives. Their family consisted of four children: Henry N. , a farmer and 
stock-dealer of Freedom, Ohio; Mary, wife of E. E. Torrey, a farmer and 
mechanic; Edward P., a farmer, and Charles A. Jacob Thayer was of English 
descent, dating his ancestry back to the seventeenth century, among whom were 
the early pioneers of Braintree, Mass. He was a hard-working, enei'getie 
farmer, very prominent in the history of his township, and devoting the best 
part of his life to church interests. He died April 17, 1884, his wife having 
preceded him in 1867. Our subject was married, December 1, 1847, to Mary 
Nistetter, born in Stark County, Ohio, January 8, 1827. By this union there 
are five children: Wilbur D., in the meat market with his father; Albert A.,.a 
lawyer at Warren, Ohio; Byron E. and Andrew A. (both farmers) and Lenora. 
Mr. Thayer, a self-made man, has dealt more or less extensively in stock, in 
which he is still interested, and, along with his son. also carries on a meat 
market. He has held several of the township offices and is now serving his 
first term as Justice of the Peace. He is a member of Garrettsville Lodge, 
No. 246, F. & A. M., and Chapter of Royal Arch. Politically he is a Repub- 
lican. 

A. H. TIDBALL, physician and surgeon, Garrettsville, Ohio, whose por- 
trait appears in this volume, was boi*n October 2, 1831, in Millersburg, Holmes 
Co., Ohio. His father, Joseph Tidball, who was born June 24, 1787, in Alle- 
gheny County, Penn., a hatter by trade, died in Shelby, Ohio, January 16, 
1884, and his mother, Eliza K. (Linn) Tidball, born in Easton. N. J., August 
13, 1801, died February 26, 1885, in Shelby, Ohio. They were parents of 
ten children. Our subject was .ediicated in the common schools, studied med- 
icine with Dr. J. Y. Cantwell, of Mansfield. Ohio, and graduated with high 
honors at the Cleveland Medical College. He began practicing his profession 
for which he had so well prepared himself, at Freedom, Portage County, in 1853. 
He practiced successfully for two years in northern Indiana and for the same 
length of time in Santa Cruz, Cal., and from 1859 to 1871 in Mesopotamia, 
Ohio. In 1871 he located in Garrettsville, this county, where he has merited a 
lucrative patrouage. He is an A. F. & A. M., a member of the lodge and 
chapter at Gar-rettsville, St. John's Commandery, K. T., of Youngstown, and 
Ohio Consistory of Cincinnati, A. A. S. R., 32°. During the summer 
of 1880 he traveled extensively through Europe. Dr. Tidball was mar- 
ried. May 17, 1854, in Freedom, Ohio, to Lizzie J. Webb, born in Holley^ 
Orleans Co., N. Y., March 23, 1833, daughter of James Webb, whose biog- 
raphy and portrait appear elsewhere in this work. To this union were born 
the following children: Frank Warren, Fred Luthei*, Linn Alonzo, and Stella 
Gertrude (latter deceased when three years old). Our subject, in politics, is a 
Democrat. He and his wife are earnest Christians, she being a member of the 
Congregational Church. Dr. Tidball is an eminent physican, a skillful sur- 
geon, and although his home is in a small and comparatively quiet town, yet 
his opinions have been asked for, and in consultations his influence has been 
felt, in places of the highest rank. No trouble is too irksome, and no under- 
taking too severe for him, where human suffering is to be alleviated in any 
way. The Doctor always has time for such duties. In his intercourse with 
his fellow-men he is dignified and courteous, and his sociability gains him 
many friends. To all enterprises tending to the prosperity of Garrettsville, 



738 BIOGRArHICAL SKETCHES: 

Dr. Tidball has given of his means freely, and the financial interests of any 
organization to which he may belong, either at home or abroad, are generously 
benefitted by his unstinting hand. 

JOSIAH S. TILDEN, Cashier First National Bank, Garrettsville, was 
born in Geauga County, Ohio, Jaouary 29, 1852. His parents, A. P. and Har- 
riet B. (Davis) Tilden, were natives of this county, and had a family of four 
children, of whom two attained maturity: Ella H., wife of James Thresher, of 
Geauga County, and Josiah S. A. P. Tilden was born in 1816, a son of 
one of the first settlers in this county. He removed to Geauga County when 
about twenty-five years of age, and engaged in merchandising. In 18G4 he 
removed to Chardon, Ohio, held the position of County Auditor for nine years, 
and is still a resident of that place, but has retired from business. His wife 
died in 1865. Our subject received a common school and academic education. 
He was married, April 17, 1879, to Miss Clara Crane, a native of this county, 
and daughter of E. M. Crane. In 1874 Mr. Tilden came to Garrettsville and 
engaged as Assistant Cashier in the First National Bank, a position he held 
six years, when he was elected Cashier, which office he still fills. He is also 
Treasurer of the corporation of Garrettsville. In connection with banking, he 
carries on a general insurance agency. He is a member of the Garrettsville 
Lodge, F. & A. M., and K. T. at Youngstown, Ohio. 

SMITH E. WADSWORTH, hotel proprietor, Garrettsville, was born in 
Windham Township, Portage Co., Ohio, October 15, 1848; son of Elmer and 
Emiline (Smith) Wadsworth. He was raised on a farm and educated at the 
common schools. His first enterprise for himself was clerking for a year in a 
meat market at Ravenna, this county. He then came to Garrettsville, and 
along with his father and brother engaged in the Dieat market business, deal- 
ing in connection with the same quite extensively in hides, pelts and tallow, 
buying and shipping for about seven years, which required our subject to be 
on the road more or less. He was married January 5, 1876, to Miss Hannah 
Styles, born in Paris Township, this county, July 26, 1847, daughter of James 
and Eleanor Styles, early settlers of that township, and by this union there is 
one child — Arthur James. In March, 1880, Mr. Wadsworth purchased the 
Cannon House, which he combined with the Wadsworth House, adopting the 
name "Cannon House," of which he has since been "mine host." He is an 
active member of Portage Lodge, I. O. O. F., and is a F. & A. M. 

STEPHEN G. WARREN, physician, Garrettsville, was born in Geauga 
County, Ohio, April 7, 1841; son of Gamaliel and Patience (Burden) Warren, 
natives of New Jersey and Rhode Island respectively, and who had a fam- 
ily of ten children: Eliza, Maria, Harriet, Jane, Ann, Matilda, Catherine, 
Polly, Burden and Stephen G. They removed to Geauga County, this State, 
in about 1835, and here the father died in 1876, the mother two years later. 
Our subject was raised on a farm, and at the ago of sixteen years entered the 
Western Reserve Seminary at Farmington, and from there went to the medical 
schools of Cleveland, Ohio, where he graduated in 18G4. He entered upon 
his pi'ofession at Erie, but owing to ill health had to retire for a time, and the 
following two years were spent in West Virginia. He was married June 27, 
1864, to Miss Julia M. Gladding, born in Attica, N. Y., November 9, 1841, 
daughter of Horace and Juliette (Taylor) Gladding, natives of New York, the 
former of whom is now deceased. By this union there is one child — Clyde T. 
In 1863 Dr. Warren located at Garrettsville, Ohio, where he has since been 
engaged in the practice of his profession. He is an active member of Gar- 
rettsville Lodge, No. 246, F. & A. M., also of Silver Creek Chapter, No. 144, 
and Oriental Commandery No. 12, K. T., of Cleveland. 



GARRETTSVILLE TOWNSHIP. 739 

GUY WARREN, physician, Garrettsville, was born at Newton Falls, 
Trumbull Co., Ohio, January 22, 1844; son of John J. and Louisa M. (Bishop) 
Warren. The former, born in Eden, Erie Co., N. Y., came to Nelson Town- 
ship, Portage Co., Ohio, at an early date, and is now a retired M. D. of that 
place ; the latter, a native of Nelson Township, this county, was born February 
29, 1823, and died May 29, 1852. They were parents of live childi-en, of 
whom our subject is third, and he was seven yeai's old when his parents moved 
to Nelson Township, this county. Here he spent his early days assisting on 
the farm, and attending the common schools. He finished his classical educa- 
tion and medical course at the Eclectic Institute in Philadelphia, graduating 
in 1870, immediately entering on the practice of his chosen profession at Gar- 
rettsville, Ohio, where he has since resided. He was married August 2, 1871, 
to Ellen M., daughter of Henry C. and Lucinda (Hopkins) Tilden, and born 
in Nelson Township, this county, January 12, 1851. By this union there are 
two children: Loiiie B. and Carrie. Thus far the Doctor's practice has proven 
a success, and from a small beginning he now has a ride extending over six 
or seven townships, the result of a thorough knowledge of his profession and 
a strict attention to business. He is an active member of Portage Lodge. No. 
456, I. O. O. F. 

PHILANDER WATERS, farmer and mechanic, Garrettsville, was born in 
Trumbull County, Ohio, July 31, 1838, eldest in the family of nine children 
of Milton and Pluma (Moore) Waters, natives of New York. The former, a 
farmer by occupation, and an early settler of Trumbull County, Ohio, died 
September, 1882; his widow still survives. Our subject's facilities for obtain- 
ing an education were limited to the common schools. He entered on his 
career in life as a farm hand, but having a natural inclination for mechanics, 
eventually entered a shop, and has since been engaged in the latter occupation. 
During the war of the Rebellion he enlisted with the 100 days men in Com- 
pany I. One Hundred and Seventy-first Ohio National Guards. Mr. Waters 
was married July, 18G7, to Miss Maria Reynolds, a native of Windham Town- 
ship, this county, by whom he has two children: Virdie, born in November, 
1872, and PearJ, born in February, 1874. In 1881 Mr. Waters removed to 
Garrettsville, purchased a small farm and turned his attention to agricultural 
pursuits. 

ROLLIN S. WEBB, lawyer, Gan-ettsville, was born in Freedom Town- 
ship, Portage Co., Ohio, January 4, 1844, son of Dr. James and Eliza L.Webb. 
His early life was employed on the homestead farm and in attending the 
neighboring common school and academy. At the age of eighteen he entered 
upon his career in life as a clerk in a furnishing establishment in Youngstown, 
where he remained about a year, and then returned to Garrettsville and entered 
the employ of W. S. Wright, who at that time was Postmaster and owned a gro- 
cery store. He remained in his service several months, then enlisted in the 
One Hxindred and Fifty-fifth Ohio National Guards, Company H, 100 days 
regiment, and immediately went to the front and participated in numerous 
engagements, and returned home. He spent the following year on the home- 
stead in Freedom Township, this county; then taxight school one winter in 
Ravenna Township, then went to Trumbull County, Ohio, and devoted his time 
for two years to the study of dentistry. Returning to Garrettsville he fol- 
lowed this profession for ten years, when he was obliged to retire on account 
of ill-health. He was married October 12, 1871, to Vine F. Gillson, born in 
Geauga County, Ohio, November 23, 1848, daughter of Willard and Sylva 
(Frisby) Gillson, natives of Vermont and early settlers of Geauga County, and 
who were the parents of six children: Norman, Luther, Flavilla, Frank L., 



740 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Josephine and Anna. Mrs. Gillson is deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Webb have 
one child — Roscoe J. Having a natural inclination for law, our subject began 
the study of the same in 1877, and was admitted to the bar at the January 
term of the Supreme Court in 1880, and opened an office in Garrettsville, 
where he has since remained in the practice of his profession. He has served 
the people of his township as Justice of the Peace one term of three years; is 
an active member of Garrettsville Lodge, No. 246, F. & A. M. Politically he 
is a strong advocate of the principles of the Republican party. 

CHARLES B. WEBB, editor, Garrettsville, was born in Freedom Town- 
ship, Portage Co., Ohio, May 28, 1848, son of Dr. James and Eliza (Land- 
fear) Webb, the former of whom was born in Genesee County, N. Y., Febru- 
ary 26, 1799, and came to Freedom Township about 1835, where he practiced 
medicine for over twenty years; the latter was born in Hartford, Conn., 
November 18, 1807. They had ten children, viz.: Cornelia B. ; Warren J., 
a lawyer in St. Louis, Mo., who died in 1866; Lizzie J. ; Carrie M. ; Sarah M., 
died in Garrettsville in 1873; Merwin F., died while in the army at Natchez, 
Miss., in 1863; Rollin S. ; Helen M. ; Charles B. and Mary R." Dr. James 
Webb died at his residence in Freedom Township November 9, 1852. Our 
subject was educated in the common schools and academy at Freedom, and 
Hiram College, and afterward taught school in Freedom and Shalersville. He 
resided in his native township until twenty years of age, when he came here 
and worked two years at the printing business, then went to Cleveland and was 
employed nearly two years in the Leader office. September 1, 1873, he pur- 
chased the Garrettsville Journal, and has since been its editor and proprietor. 
He was married January 6, 1875, to Miss Ella S. McHenry, born April 13, 
1856, at SandyviJle, Ohio, daughter of Reuben and Adaline McHenry, the 
foi-merborn in Leesburg, Va., February 4, 1812; latter in Lynn, Mass., March 
7, 1814. By this union were born three children: Estella Adaline, Gertrude 
Eliza and Lawrence Mervin. Mr. Webb is Clerk of the Congregational 
Church, with which he has been connected several years, and of which he was 
Treasurer six years. He is a member of Portage Lodge. No. 456, I. O. O. F., 
at Garrettsville. Politically he is identified with the Republican party. 

CHARLES A. WHITE, retired farmer, Garrettsville, is a native of Ver- 
mont, born September 14, 1825, son of Noadiah and Wealthy (Hazen) White, 
natives of New England and early settlers of Garrettsville, parents of 
ten children, eight of whom were boys over six feet in height. Our subject came 
here with his parents when eight years of age, and grew to maturity amid 
pioneer scenes, acquiring such an education as could be obtained in the com- 
mon schools of those early days, and entered upon his career in life as a farmer. 
In 1850 he crossed the plains to California, returning in about a year. Mr. 
White Was married in 1853 to Lucinda Landfear, a native of Connecticut, 
born September 5, 1830, who has borne him three children: Clara, Will and 
Hattie. During the war of the Rebellion Mr. White enlisted in 1861 in Com- 
pany H, Nineteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry 100-days men. In 1862 he 
re- enlisted, this time in Company D, Eighty- fourth Regiment, and served 
four months; then in 1864 he enlisted in Company E, Sixtieth Regiment, 
serving till the close of the wai'. Mr. White has tilled the offices of Deputy 
Sheriff about four years. Constable six years, and as Marshal of Garrettsville 
five years. In 1880 he took a mail route of a circuit of three offices, which he 
controlled four years. He retired from farm labors in 18S2, and removed into 
the village. He is a member of Bentley Post, G. A. R., of Mantua. 



HIRAM TOWNSHIP. 741 



HmA]>I TOWNSHIP. 

HOMER F. ABBOTT, farmer, P. O. Hiram, is a native of Hiram Tovm- 
ship, this county, born October 22, 1843, son of Pliny and Ann (Gillett, nee 
Fletcher,) Abbott, natives of Massachusetts and Vermont respectively, of Eng- 
lish descent, former of whom came to this county in 1827 to settle, and latter in 
about 1832 to Garrettsville, this county, with her mother and sister. They were 
married in this county in 1842. Both had been married before, but had no 
issue. Our subject still resides on the old homestead farm in Hiram Town- 
ship, his parents having died, aged seventy-one and sixty- eight years respect- 
ively. He was married January 30, 1868, to Miss Carrie Haker, of 
Cuyahoga County. Ohio, a native of Germany, born February 14, 1847; and, 
her father having died while en route to America in 1853, she was reared in 
Euclid Township, Cuyahoga Co., Ohio, by Sardis Welsh. Mr. and Mrs. 
Abbott have had five children: Howard (deceased), Arthur L., Ada B., Harry 
and Mildred A. Mr. Abbott has served in some of the township offices for 
several years. He is a Republican in his politics. 

SHELDON C. CANFIELD, blacksmith, P. O. Hiram, was born in Pleas- 
ant Grove, 111., in 1838. His parents, Joseph and Max'iette (Root) Canfield, 
natives of New York State, moved to Illinois in an early day. From Illinois 
our subject came to this State in 1850 and settled in Geauga County, where he 
remained until 1867 engaged in farm work and painting. The years 1867 to 
1870 he passed in Michigan, then came to Hiram Township, this county, where 
he has since given his attention to blacksmithing. Mr. Canfield was married in 
1861 to Miss Rebecca Hill, of Geauga County, Ohio, a native of New York 
State, whence her parents emigrated in 1855, settling in this county. Our 
subject purchased property in Hiram Center. He has served as Clerk of his 
township. In politics he is a Democrat. 

GEORGE H. COLTON, teacher, P. O. Hiram, was born in Nelson Town- 
ship, this county, October 10, 1848, son of John B. and Mary L. (Tilden) 
Colton, of Hiram Township, this county. He was educated principally at 
Hiram College, in this township, where he graduated in 1871 and then spent 
one year in attending the civil engineer course at the Michigan University, 
Ann Arbor, Mich. He followed surveying and engineering for one year and 
engaged in a survey of the Cuyahoga Valley Railroad, which position he 
resigned in 1873 and accepted the chair of Professor of Natural Sciences at 
Hiram College, which he still fills. He was married November 14, 1873, to 
Miss Clara A. Taylor, of Nelson Township, where she was born September 23, 
1849, daughter of Edwin E. Taylor. By this union there is one daughter — 
Mary B., born October 8, 1874. 

OREN J. CONANT, farmer, P. O. Grove, Geauga County, was born in 
Geauga County, Ohio, January 30, 1851, sou of Gardner and Mary (Wood) 
Conant, natives of Vermont, of English and French descent, i-espectively, who 
settled early in life in Geauga County, Ohio, and moved to this county in 
1854, where they lived until their death. Mrs. Conant died December 16, 
1875, aged fifty-three years, and Mr. Conant November 5, 1882, aged seventy- 
eight years. Our subject has never left the home farm, and here he now has 
130 acres of well-improved land, containing good buildings, etc. He was 



Y42 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

married June 22, 1876, to Miss Stella F. Bancroft, of Nelson Township, this 
county, where she was born October 23, 1853, the daughter of Barnos K. and 
Anna (Chalker) Bancroft, natives of Massachusetts and Ohio respectively, and 
of English descent, who settled in an early day in this county, where Mr. 
Bancroft died in 1870 and his widow still resides. To Mr. and Mrs. Conant 
has been born one daughter — Jessie M. , born May 24, 1879. In politics oar 
subject is a Democrat. 

STEPHEN H. DAVIS, farmer, P. O. Rapids, was born in Washington 
County, R. I., August 23, 1829, son of Peter and Mary Ann (Hazard) Davis, 
who moved to New York State in 1840, where they remained until 1852, at 
which time they came to Geauga County, Ohio, where they now reside. Our 
subject began at the age of seventeen years as an apprentice to blacksmithing, 
which trade he continued for twenty-four years, mostly in Janesville, N. Y. 
In 1866 he immigrated to this county and purchased land in Hiram Township, 
which he has improved and upon which he still resides. He was married 
November 5, 1850, to Miss Martha Ashard, born in Madison County, N. Y., 
September 13, 1830, daughter of Joseph and Hannah (Howd) Ashard, resi- 
dents of Madison, and where Mr. Ashard died; his widow died in Hiram 
Township, this county. Our subject is the father of five children, of whom 
two survive: William J. and Mary H. Mr. Davis has given his attention since 
coming to this county to agriculture. He was a member of the lodge of 
I. O. O. F., which gave in its charter in 1864. He is a Democrat in politics. 
His wife is an adherent of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

HENRY A. DYSON, farmer, P. O. Hiram, was born in Hiram Township, 
this county, October 18, 1822; son of John and Sarah (Young) Dyson, natives 
of Delaware and Connecticut respectively, and who came with their parents to 
this county in 1804. The mother of our subject died in 1845, and the father 
in 1868. Our subject began the trade of stone-mason in his youth, which he 
followed in later years, giving also some attention to farming. He became 
owner of land in 1857 in Hiram Township, upon which he now resides. He 
was married in 1843, to Miss Lucinda Wright, of Hiram Township, a native of 
New Y''ork State, born in 1822 of parents who were early settlers in this county, 
now deceased. Our subject is the father of one son — Nelson H. , born November 
22, 1848, and married November 22, 1868, to Miss Emma Young, of Hiram 
Township, daughter of Andrew and J oann (Harris) Young, natives of Connect- 
icut and Rhode Island respectively, and of English descent, who settled in this 
county in 1811. Mr. and Mrs. Nelson Dyson are the parents of three sons: How- 
ard L., Eugene B. and Clarence A. Mr. and Mrs. Dyson, with their son Nelson 
H. and his wife, are members of the Disciples Church. Our subject has tilled 
most of the township offices; both he and his son are Democrats in politics. 

ERWIN E. EDWARDS, farmer, P. O. Garrettsville, was born in Hiram 
Township, this county, June 19, 1844, son of Erwin and Polly (Waite) 
Edwards, the former a native of this county, the latter of Vermont. They 
were the parents of one son and one daughter: Erwin E. and Frances H., who 
died several years since. The father died in 1860. The mother still resides 
on the homestead farm with her son, Erwin E., who became owner of the 
same at the death of his father. Mrs. Edwards was formerly the wife of 
Newman Elwell, of Vermont, who died in Newberry Township, Geauga Co., 
Ohio, soon after moving there. He was the father of three children, of whom 
only one survives — Mary. Our subject was married, in 1881, to Miss Lona M. 
Chamberlin, boi'n in Hiram Township, this county, daughter of James and 
Jerusha (Chase) Chamberlin, early settlers in this county, and where Mr. 
Chamberlin still resides, his wife having died several years since. Mr. 



HIRAM TOWNSHIP. 743 

Edwards has made some valuable improvements on the home farm, which com- 
prises ninety- sis acres, valued at from $70 to $90 per acre. He is a Democrat 
in politics. 

JAMES ABRAM GARFIELD, twentieth President of the United States, 
was born November 19, 1831, in Orange, Cuyahoga Co., Ohio, son of Abram 
and Eliza (Ballon) Garfield, latter a native of New Hampshire, a relative of 
the celebrated Hosea Ballou. The genealogy of the Garfield family traces 
back to 1587, in which year a tract of land on the borders of Wales, near 
Chester, England, and not far from the celebrated picturesque vale of Llan- 
gollen, was given to James Garfield (or Gearfeldt) through the influence of 
Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester. The Gearfeldts were probably descendants 
of the old Knights of Gaerfili Castle, whose prow^ess in arms and deeds of 
chivalry are frequently made mention of m English history. Their crest con- 
sisted of a helmet with the visor raised and an uplifted arm holding a drawn 
sword, and their motto was " J?r cruce vinco'^ (In, or under, the cross I con- 
quer). In 1630 Edward Geartield, of Chester, England, and who was born in 
1575, came to America in a company of colonists, and from him, in a direct 
line, comes James A. Garfield. 

Abram Garfield, father of our subject, born December 28, 1799, at Wor- 
cester, Otsego Co., N. Y., and who was one of the first settlers of the township 
of Orange, died in 1835, leaving a young family of four children, of whom 
James A. was the youngest, being at the time of his father's death only a year 
and a half old. The family were poor and were kept together only by the 
industry, energy and courage of the widowed mother. Young Garfield received 
a common school education while working on his mother's farm, and at the age 
of fourteen learned the carpenter's trade, while, two years later, he served for 
a few months as a boatman on the Ohio Canal. Through his own arduous 
efforts he obtained a college education, entering at the age of seventeen on a 
course of study, first in the Geauga Seminary, at Chester, Ohio, and a little 
later in the Eclectic Institute, then recently established at Hiram, this county, 
and not long after entering that institute he was made an assistant teacher. 
In 1854 he entered the Junior Class of "Williams College, Massachusetts, hav- 
ing in a little more than three years fitted himself for college, and completed 
the two first years of college study. He was a favorite pupil of the venerable 
President Hopkins, and when he graduated, in 1856, he carried off one of the 
highest honors of his class. In obtaining his education Mr. Garfield was 
wholly dependent upon himself. His earnings, first as a carpenter, then as a 
teacher, supplemented by some small loans (subsequently repaid in full), 
•carried him through his course of study. 

Immediately after his graduation Mr. Garfield was chosen teacher of the 
ancient languages and literature in the institution at Hiram, and the follow- 
ing year he was elected Principal. He was an incessant and effective worker, 
frequently teaching six or seven hours a day, besides attending to the general 
supervision, and delivering numerous lectures on a great variety of topics, 
both before his students and before popular audiences. 

In 1859, without solicitation or effort on his part, the Republican party in 
his district elected him to the Ohio Senate, and although the youngest member 
of that body, he immediately took rank with foremost Senators in ability, 
industry, and usefulness. 

Just before the conclusion of his Senatorial services, the Southern Rebell- 
ion broke out. In accordance with all his political antecedents and convic- 
tions, Mr. Garfield at once espoused the cause of the Union against secession. 
Early in the autumn of 1861 he was made Colonel of the Forty-second Regiment 



744 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

of Ohio Vohinteers. This regiment, largely enlisted by his personal efforts, 
was rapidily organized, drilled, and prepared for the field. On the 17th of 
December it was ordered to eastern Kentucky, and its Colonel was placed in 
command of the Eighteenth Brigade of the Army of the Ohio. With this com- 
maad Col. Garfield conducted a highly successful winter campaign against a 
force of rebels under the command of Humphrey Marshall. The victories of 
Middle Creek and Pound Gap were the first successes of the Union A.rmy that 
year in the West. Their immediate result was the expulsion of the Confed- 
erate forces from eastern Kentucky. President Lincoln, recognizing the value 
of this success, promoted Col. Garfield to the rank of Brigadier-General. 

Gen. Garfield now joined the army of Gen. Buell. He commanded the 
Twentieth Brigade at the battle of Shiloh, and in the subsequent operations 
around Corinth, Decatur, and Huntsville, Ala. In the winter of 1862-63 
he was a member of the coui't-martial that tried Fitz-John Porter. In January 
of the latter year he was assigned to the Army of the Cumberland, then under 
the command of Gen. Rosecrans, who at once made him Chief of Staff of the 
array. In this position Gen. Garfield rendered distinguished services. He 
was the confidential adviser of the commander-in-chief. He participated in all 
the engagements in middle and southern Tennessee. He greatly distinguished 
himself for ability and bravery in the bloody battle of Chickamauga, and was 
immediately promoted to the rank of Major- General. Here Gen. Garfield's 
military career closed. He resigned his commission on the 5th of December, 
1863, to enter another field of duty. 

On leaving the army Gen. Garfield took his seat in the House of Represen- 
tatives, having been, in October, 1862, elected by the Nineteenth Ohio Congres- 
sional District its Representative to the Thirty-eighth Congress. He soon took 
rank among the ablest and most useful members of the House. During his 
first term he served on the Committee of Military Affairs, during the second 
on the Committee of Ways and Means. In the Fortieth Congress he was 
Chairman of the Military Committee, and in the Forty- first Chairman of the 
Committee of Banking and Currency. On the organization of the Forty-second 
Congress, he was made Chairman of the Committee of Appropriations, the most 
laborious and responsible position in the House. The duties growing out of 
these responsible positions were discharged in a manner highly creditable to 
himself and advantageous to the country. But it must not be supposed that 
they bounded the circle of his legislative life. Some of his special services were 
peculiarly onerous and valuable. In 1864, as Chairman of a special committee, 
he made a thorough examination into the affairs of the Printing Bureau of the 
Treasury Department. As Chairman of the Committee on Banking, he inves- 
tigated the Gold Panic of 1870, and submitted to the House a valuable report 
of the investigation. In 1867 he introduced into the House, and carried 
through it, the bill creating the National Bureau of Education, — a most valua- 
ble bureau, which he defended against all assaults. But his most conspicuous 
and valuable services were in the field of the national finances. His continued 
thorough study of this difficult subject, for which his previous training well 
fitted him, rendered him the most thorough master of it in the House of Rep- 
resentatives, and one of the most thorough in the country. Convinced that 
the interest no less than the honor of the nation lay in that direction, he stren- 
uously resisted all propositions looking toward repudiation and inflation, 
advocating, from the first, an honest payment of the public debt and a speedy 
return to specie payments. 

January 13, 1880, the Ohio Legislature elected Gen. Garfield to the United 
States Senate, and in the same year he was chosen a delegate to the Republi- 



HIRAM TOWNSHIP. 745 

can Convention to meet at Chicago. Here, amid unqualified enthusiasm, he 
was nominated for the Presidential chair and was subsequently duly elected. 
But; President Garfield was not destined to long enjoy his new- made honors, 
for the assassin-fiend was already shadowing his footsteps; the bullet that had 
its fatal billet had been cast in the mold. On July 2, 1881, while on the eve 
of stepping on board the train at the Baltimore Eailway station, at "Washing- 
ton (for he was on his way to Long Branch, there to meet his wife), he was 
fired at twice by the graceless madman, Guiteau, the second shot taking effect, 
the bullet entering the President's side, tearing through the spine and lodging 
in the fiesh. 

After long, lingering, painful suffering, heroically borne with true Christ- 
ian spirit, the martyred President, in the quiet Francklyn Cottage, Long 
Branch, passed through "the Golden Gate" September 19, 1881. His 
remains repose in the beautiful Lake View Cemetery, Cleveland, Ohio. 
"Farewell ! the leaf-strown earth enfolds 
Our stay, our pride, our hopes, our fears, 
And autumn's golden sun beholds 
A nation bowed, a world in tears." 

James A. Garfield had great powers of physical and mental endurance; he 
was strongly built and well proportioned, standing six feet high, a man of 
wide range of studies, taste and thought. Public duties did not engross all of 
his talents and attention, for in the spring of 1861, after a full course of legal 
reading, he was admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of Ohio, and in 
1866 he obtained the same standing in the Supreme Court of the United States. 
From the time of his admission to its bar, he every year argued cases in the 
latter tribunal. 

He had great patience in the accumulation of facts, great skill in generaliz- 
ation and in the development of principles. In his chosen fields of statesman- 
ship, probably no man in Congress had at command a larger body of 
systematized knowledge. As a public speaker, he was forcible and elegant. 
Some of his occasional papers and addresses have a high degree of merit. Of 
these may be mentioned his paper on " The American Census," read before the 
Social Science Association; his adresses on "College Education" and "The 
Future of the Republic, " and his "Eulogy" onMaj.-Gen. George H. Thomas. 
He had large power over young men; and while an educator, many hundreds 
of students received from him a vigorous and healthy intellectual and moral 
impulse. 

Mr. Garfield was married in 1858, to Miss Lucretia Rudolph, of Hiram, 
and was eminently happy in his domestic life. He was a member of the 
Christian or Disciples Church, and while a teacher at Hiram — though never 
intending to follow that calling — he was an acceptable, and even favorite, 
speaker in the pulpits of that denomination. While thoroughly progressive 
in his thoughts and tendencies, Mr. Garfield was far from being an extremist; 
abundant evidence of which can be found along the course of his whole public 
life. In 1872 Williams College conferred upon him the honorary degree of 
LL.D., as a recognition of his learning and ability. 

RICHARD MASTERSON HANK, retired, P. O. Hiram, is a native of 
Trumbull County, Ohio, where he was born June 22, 1814, son of Daniel and 
Mary (Masterson) Hank, natives of Pennsylvania, of English descent. They 
were married in Fayette County, that State, December 16, 1792, and in 1804 
moved to Trumbull County, Ohio, and soon after taking up his abode there 
Daniel Hank purchased a farm of 200 acres of heavily-timbered land on the 
Mosquito Creek bottom in Howland Township, on which was a log-cabin and a 
few acres of land in cultivation. Before his death he built a large frame 



746 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

house, and the first frame barn in the township, and besides working at his 
two occupations of ii'on molder and stone-mason a part of the time, he and 
his two elder sons cleared the forest from about 100 acres of the farm, split 
rails and fenced it into fields and so brought the land into cultivation. He 
died June 5, 1821, and his widow December 22, 1856, aged fifty and eighty- 
three years respectively. Of their eight children, Richard Masterson is the 
only survivor. Our subject received his collegiate education at Allegheny 
College, Pennsylvania, and afterward, in 1839 and 1840, was a student in the 
oflice of Tod & Hoffman, in Warren, Ohio, (David Tod, afterward Governor 
of Ohio, and Ben Hoffman, afterward Juclge of Common Pleas, now a resident 
of Youngstown, Ohio,) but bis health failing, he was obliged to abandon the 
pursuit of law. Mr. Hank was married April 4, 1843, to Miss Harriet E. 
Griffin, of Trumbull County, Ohio, also a native of Fayette County, Penn. , 
born February 8, 1824, daughter of Samuel and Esther (Smith) Griffin, of Eng- 
lish descent, natives of the same county and State, where they died. Our sub- 
ject taught school for several years in his native county, and in 1840 pur- 
chased a farm then noted for its mineral springs, which he improved and made 
quite a pleasant place of resort, now known as the " Howland Springs." 
From there he came to this county in 1865 and purchased a nursery in Hiram 
Township, where he now resides. He has served his township for eighteen 
years as Justice of the Peace, and was one of the officers of Hiram College of 
this township. In 1871 he with others organized the First National Bank of 
Garrettsville, Ohio, of which he was President for several years. His wife is 
a member of the Disciples Church. 

ROYAL P. HUTCHINSON, farmer, P. O Hiram, was born in Hiram 
Township, this county, January 2, 1826, son of Orin and Paulina (Sweet) 
Hutchinson, natives of Connecticut and New York State respectively, both now 
deceased. They settled in this county about 1811, and reared a family of 
whom three survive: Royal P., Egbert S. and Mary C. Our subject purchased 
the land in Hiram Township, this county, where he now resides, in 1852, and 
has followed general agriculture through life. He was married September 17^ 
1854, to Miss Abby J. Kennedy, of Mantua Township, this county, a native 
of Geauga County, Ohio, where her parents were early settlers, but who in 
later years moved to Aurora Township, where they both died. To this union 
have been born four children, two now living: William R. and Mary A. Mrs. 
Hutchinson is a member of the Disciples Church. Mr. Hutchinson has served 
in some of the township offices. He is a Democrat in politics. 

DAVID KERNOHAN, farmer, P. O. Hiram, was born April 17, 1854, in 
County Antrim, Ireland, son of James Kernohan, who died in his native land 
during 1862, and Mary (Clark) Kernohan, who immigrated to America in 1864, 
accompanied by four of her children, settling at Niles, Trumbull Co., Ohio. 
There our subject received his education, removing to Hiram Township, this 
county, in 1876, where he entered the service of Benjamin Tilden, who with his 
wife, Samantha (Edwards) Tilden, were natives of Connecticut, and among the 
first settlers in this county, where they lived and died. They were members 
of the Disciples Church. Mr. Tilden died January 31, 1884, aged seventy- one, 
his w^idow July 26, same year, aged sixty-seven years, making our subject leg- 
atee of their property. On December 3, 1878, David Kernohan was married 
to Flora Ledyard, born March 19, 1846, in Aurora Township, this county, 
adopted daughter of Mr. Tilden (also a beneficiary under his will to the extent 
of 12,000) and widow of Ransom Ledyard, who died June 25, 1877, leaving 
a daughter— Myra V., born August 5, 1869. Mr. and Mrs. Kernohan are the 
parents of one son — James D., born September 24, 1879. 



HIRAM TOWNSHIP. 747 

GEORGE H. LAUGHLIN, President of Hiram College, Hiram, was 
born December 28, 1838, at Quincy, 111. Being now in the very prime of 
life and of excellent physique, his greatest work is probably yet before him. 
His hair is considerably tinged with grey, but his step has lost none of its 
elasticity, nor have his dark brown eyes lost any of their original fire and 
expressiveness. His early training was received on an Illinois farm, and his 
first educational opportunities were limited. In October, 1857, he entered 
Berean College, Jacksonville, 111., but being dissatisfied with that institution, 
he left it in less than one year, to enter Abingdon College, Knox Co., 111., 
where he remained four years as student and graduated with the highest hon- 
ors of his class. At Cameron, 111., August 21, 1862, he was married to Deb- 
bie J. Ross, who has pi'oved to be a devoted wife and helper. At this time he 
began teaching and preaching, and has since steadily continued his work. He 
regards teaching as his profession, and preaching as an avocation. For three 
years we find him engaged in the public schools of Illinois, afterward eight 
years Principal of the Ralls County Academy at New London, Mo., five years 
of this time filling the office of County Superintendent of Public Schools. 
During this time his Sundays were spent in preaching. He has done much 
work in county institutes, in preparing teachers for their woi'k. In 1874 he 
was called to fill the Chair of Ancient Languages in Oskaloosa College, Oshkosh, 
Iowa. After holding this position seven years, he was elected President of 
that institution. After a successful term of two years he resigned to accept 
the Presidency of Hiram College, Hiram, Portage Co., Ohio. This position 
he has held for two years past with admirable success, having already won the 
approval and regard of the friends and patrons of the college. His life has 
been a very active one, and will doubtless continue so, until he shall lay aside 
• the armor which he has never allowed to rust. Much of his time has been 
spent in writing for educational papers, both as editor and correspondent. 
He has given many lectm'es on educational and religious themes. He is of a 
metaphysical turn of mind. As a minister he is decidedly non-sectarian, and as 
a public speaker he has been regarded as very successful. He is logical and 
concise in writing, using pure diction, and possessing a style clear and forci- 
ble, as well as oratorical. In character he is blameless, and throughout his 
life, including a public career of nearly a quarter of a century, " not a stain 
can be found on his shield." 

GOULD B. MURWIN, farmer, P. O. Garrettsville, is a native of Dela- 
ware County, N. Y. , born January 25, 1819, son of James and Ann (Barlow) 
Murwin, natives of Connecticut and Nova Scotia, and of Irish and English 
descent, respectively, and who were married in Delaware County, N. Y. , where 
they lived a term of years and then removed to Tompkins County, N. Y., 
where Mr. Murwin died. His widow became a resident of Ashtabula County, 
Ohio, whex'e she died. Our subject moved to Ashtabula County, Ohio, in 1838, 
thence to .Mentor, Lake Co., Ohio, and in 1840 to Garrettsville, Ohio, where 
he continued in the shoe trade for five years. He then returned to Ashtabula 
County, where he operated a tannery and shoe business, and in 1849 came to 
this county and purchased land in Hiram Township, where he still resides, 
following general agriculture. Mr. Miu'win was married, August 19, 1847, to 
Miss Amanda E. Udall, of Hiram Township, this county, where she was born 
August 2, 1826, daughter of George and Melinda (H^^tchins) Udall, natives of 
Vermont and New Hampshire, and of English and Irish descent, respectively, 
and who were among the first settlers in this county, where Mr. Udall died at 
the age of sixty-two years and his widow still resides, aged eighty-two years. 
Our subject is the father of one son — Herbert B., born August 7, 1859, mar- 



748 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

ried October 13, 1880, to Miss Flora B. Wells, of Hiram Township, this 
county, born in Geauga County, Ohio, March 15, 1857, daughter of William 
H. and Hannah D. (Bancroft) Wells, now residing in Portage County, Ohio. 
Our subject has served in some of the township oflQces; in politics he is a 
Democrat. 

NOBLE H. NICHOLS, farmer, P. O. Garrettsville, Ohio, was born in 
Essex County, N. Y., May 29, 1825; son of Andrew and Sallie (Haven) Nich- 
ols, natives of the same county and State, born September 27, 1790, and July 
17, 1797, respectively; former was a Sergeant in the war of 18J2; they were 
married January 7, 1819. Andrew Nichols remained in New York State until 
1832, when he came to Ohio and settled with his wife in Shalersville Town- 
ship, this county, where they created a home and raised a family of five sons 
and five daughters: Polly M., Koby D., Paris C, Noble H., LucretiaO., Mason 
E., James H., Martha L., Rossella J., Albert M. The father was an active 
Democrat all his life, and died in Shalersville Township at the age of seventy- 
seven years; his widow also died here, aged seventy-live years. Their remains 
are interred in the Shalersville Cemetery, this county. Our subject was married, 
April 11, 1844, to Miss Ursula B. Drake, of Shalersville Township, born in 
Hampshire County. Mass., November 28, 1822, daughter of Stimpson W. and 
Abigail (Joslin) Drake, also natives of Massachusetts, who married, lived and 
died in Hampshire County, that State. The wife of our subject came to Ohio 
in 1843 and is now the mother of eight children: Marcus H., Geoi-ge F., 
Charles L., Addie L., Henry C, Ida M., William A. and Clarence P. Ida and 
Andrew died in infancy. Our subject purchased land first in Shalersville 
Township in 1847. In 1850 he sold this and purchased in Mantua Township, 
and eight years later removed to Hiram Township, where he has since resided, 
and is now the owner of over 1,000 acres of land. He and his wife are mem- 
bers of the Disciples Church. 

SYLVESTER R. PACKER, farmer, P. O. Hiram, is a native of New 
London County, Conn., born March 4, 1803, son of Ebenezer and Ketura 
Packer, who were natives of the same State, where they remained until death. 
Sylvester R. came to this county in 1826 and purchased land in Hiram Town- 
ship, on which he still resides. He was married in 1827 to Miss Laura Maxon, 
of Hiram Township, this county, also a native of Connecticut, where she was 
born September 6, 1809, and whose parents were among the first settlers in 
this county. To this union were born eight children, of whom only two sur- 
vive: Angeline and Mary. Mr. Packer has served in some of the township 
offices. In politics he is a Republican. He and his wife are members of the 
Christian Church. 

JASON L. PRICHARD, farmer, P. O. Grove, Geauga County, is a 
native of Geauga County, Ohio, where he was born August 14, 1837, son of 
Jesse and Cornelia (Cadwell) Prichard, natives of Massachusetts and Connect- 
icut respectively, and of English descent. They settled in this county in an 
early day, locating first in Nelson Township, and then in Hiram Township, 
latterly moving to Geauga County, Ohio, where Jesse Prichard followed the 
milling business until his death in 1883. His wife also died in the same 
year. Our subject engaged in the saw-mill business in this county in 1860, 
operating and building at different times five or six mills. In 1882 he became 
owner of the old home farm in Hiram Township, upon which he now resides 
and where he is building a stationary saw-mill. He married in 1863 Miss 
Caroline Abbott, of Geauga County, Ohio, where she was born January 24, 
1837, daughter of Harrison and Mary (Burt) Abbott, natives of Massachusetts 
and of English descent. Caroline Prichard, who was the mother of one 



HIRAM TOWNSHIP. 749 

daughter, died March 29, 1880. Our subject then married, September 4, 1881, 
Mrs. N. K. (Keblor) Freeman, of Geauga County, born in Trumbull County, 
Ohio, November 8, 1842, the widow of Loran Freeman, who died in 1879, 
leaving no offspring. Mr. Prichard is a Democrat in politics. 

NELSON F. RAYMOND, farmer, P. O. Hiram, was born in Hiram Town- 
ship, this county, September 30, 1841, son of Silas and Rebecca (Pitkin) Ray- 
mond, natives of Orange, N. H., and Hartford, Vt. , respectively. They came 
to this county in about 1816 and 1818 and were married in Hiram Township, 
this county, in May, 1826, where they reared a large family, six of whom sur 
vive. Silas Raymond died in 1881, aged eighty-two years, his wife having 
preceded him in 1878, aged seventy-eight. Our subject was married December 
28, 1871, to Miss Mary A. Hyde, of Farmington, Trumbull Co., Ohio, where 
she was born November 23, 1844, daughter of Daniel and Rebecca (Sager) 
Hyde, natives of Herkimer County, N. Y., and Trumbull County, Ohio, 
respectively, and who were married in Trumbull County, Ohio, where they 
settled about 1838 and where they still reside. Our subject and wife are the 
parents of one son — Glenn H., born August 13, 1877. Mr. Raymond pur- 
chased in 1870 his farm in Hiram Township, this county, which he has greatly 
improved, and has given considerable attention to fruit-raising, mostly grapes. 
He and his wife are members of the Disciples Church of Hiram Center. In 
politics he is a Republican. 

JOSEPH P. ROBERTS, farmer, P. O. Mantua, is a native of Middlesex 
County, Conn., born in 1821. His parents, Asher and Sarah (Paddoe) Roberts, 
were natives of Connecticut, of English descent. They were the parents of 
live children, two of whom survive: Jane and Joseph P. The father died in 
1823, and the mother then married Charles Cone (by whom she had three 
children) and died in 1878. Our subject removed to Hiram Township, this 
county, in 1839, spending the first two years in Shalersville, where he began 
blacksmithing, a trade he continued twenty years in Mantua, this county. 
In 1857 he came to Hiram Township and purchased the farm on which he now 
resides, and which he has improved in various ways. He was married in 1845 
to Miss Lovina Spencer, born in Mantua, only daughter of Hiram and Eliza- 
beth Spencer, early settlers in this county. By this union were two children: 
Sarah, and Mary (deceased). Mrs, Roberts died in 1848 and Mr. Roberts 
again married, on this occasion, in 1855, Miss Lora AVebster, of Ashtabula 
County, Ohio, her native home, by whom he had three children: Julia, Lydia 
(deceased) and Bion. She died in 1872, and our subject then married, the 
third time, in 1877, Miss Adda Stanton, a native of this county, and by her 
has one son — Ray. Mr. Roberts is a Democrat in politics. 

NUMAN P. SQUIRE, farmer, P. O. Rapids, was born in Aurora Town- 
ship, this county, December 9, 1813; son of Warren and Lovina (McConoughey) 
Squire, natives of Massachusetts, and of English and Irish descent, respec- 
tively, and whose parents settled in this county in 1809. Our subject was mar- 
ried, in 1839, to Miss Rebecca Avery, of Aurora Township, this county, a 
native of New York State, and whose parents immigrated to this county in a very 
early day. To this union was born one son — Frank, who is married and 
resides upon the home farm. The mother of this son died September 6,1844, 
and our subject married again, in 1846, Miss Julia A. White, of this county, 
also a native of New York State, and daughter of Nathan White, who was one 
of the first settlers in this county. Mr. Squire purchased his farm in Hiram 
Township, this county, in 1846, and has improved the same in many ways. He 
has served his township in most of its offices; in politics he is a Democrat. 

39 



750 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

ANDREW J. SQUIRE, physician, P. O. Hiram, was born in Aurora Town- 
ship, this couaty, September 17, 1815; son of Ezekiel and Clarissa (Stewarfc) 
Squire, natives of Berkshire County, Mass., of English descent, who immi- 
grated to Ohio in 1810 and settled ia Aurora Township, this county, same year 
In 1815 they moved to Mantua Township, where Ezekiel Squire followed the 
practice of medicine and died September 5, 1822. He was the father of four 
sons and three daughters. Our subject was educated in the Medical University 
at Willonghby, Ohio, (from 1810 to 1841) and began the practice of medicine 
in Mantua Township, this county, in 1843. There he continued until 1864^ 
when he moved to Hiram Center, where he still continues in the practice of his 
profession. The Doctor was elected to the State Legislature and served from 
1859 to 1861; has also filled most of the township offices — Justice of the 
Peace, etc. He was married in 1850 to Martha Wilmot, of Mantua Township, 
daughter of Ella and Lucretia (Blair) Wilmot, early settlers of this county, 
and to this union have been born two sons: Andrew, practicing law, and 
Marion, attending the Medical College. 

FRANCIS STRONG, farmer, P. O. Garrettsville, is a native of Vermont, 
born in 1807, where his parents, Francis and Thankful Strong, formerly of 
Massachusetts, lived and died. Our subject came to this county in 1836 and for 
two years operated a woolen -mill in Garrettsville; thence moved to Hiram Town- 
ship, where he has since followed general agriculture and has served in most of 
the township offices. He is a Royal Arch Mason, has been a Deacon in the Con- 
gregational Church for twenty-five years; he is a stanch Republican in politics. 
Mr. Strong was married, in 1837, to Louisa Hitchcock, of this county, a native 
of Connecticut, and daughter of Chauncy and Mary (Goodrich) Hitchcock, 
who settled in Hiram Township, this county, in 1835, and here remained until 
their death. Our subject and wife are parents of one daughter — Clara L., 
born in Hiram Township, and who was married April 16, 1865, to James K. 
Rudolph, also a native and resident of Hiram Township, born April 16, 1840, 
son of John and Cleona (Atwater) Rudolph, natives of Virginia and Ohio, 
respectively, and who were among the first settlers of this vicinity. 

LEWIS C. TODD, farmer, P. O. Garrettsville, was born in Chautauqua 
County, N. Y., July 30, 1824; son of Lewis C. and Ellen (Stedman) Todd, 
natives of Connecticut and New York State respectively, of English descent, 
and who were married in Chautauqua County, where they lived several years, 
he being a teacher of the Latin and Greek languages, and a piiblisher and 
preacher. They came to this county in 1834 and settled in Nelson Township, 
but in 1854 removed to Geauga County, where the father was elected to the 
Legislature, and in 1862 they removed to Nelson, where they both died. Our 
subject purchased land in this county in 1845, to which he added in 1862 by 
purchases in Nelson Township, where he farmed until 1882, when he moved to 
his present residence in this township. Our subject has been twice married, 
his first wife being Mary P, Cook, who died in 1861, leaving two children: 
Clarence L. and Mary E. He was married, November 6, 1862, to Electa J. 
Young, of Geauga County, Ohio, a native of Chautauqua County, N. Y. , where 
she was boi-n November 27, 1834, daughter of Elisha W. and Lovica (Ryder) 
Young, natives of Connecticut and New York, respectively, and of English 
descent. By this [marriage he is parent of two children: one son, Melvin 
B., and a daughter, Jennie L. Mr. Young was the inventor of the first smut- 
mill, and also a patentee of other discoveries in mechanics. He died in 
Geauga County in 1881 and his widow in 1882. Our subject is a Master 
Mason; he is Independent in politics. 

WILLIAM E. UDALL, farmer, P. O. Garrettsville, was born in Hiram 
Township, this county, April 20, 1820; son of Rufus and Mary (Loomis) 



HIRAM TOAVNSHIP. 751 

Udall. Our subject became owner of land in Hiram Township, this county, 
in 1839, which he sold a few years later, and in 1843 purchased the property 
on which he now resides. He has followed farming through life: also oper- 
ated a threshing machine, in the season, for three years, and has been a mover 
of millings for the past twenty years. He was married in Hiram Township, 
this county, November 22, 1842, to Miss Sallie Bently, of Troy Township, 
Geauga Co., Ohio, where she was born November 15, 1818, daughter of Sim- 
eon and Eliza Bently, natives of New York State, and who moved in 1842 
from Geauga Coiinty, Ohio, to Putnam County, where they died a few years 
later. Our subject is the father of one son — Charles Albert, born November 
6, 1847. Mr. and Mrs. Udall have been members of the Disciples Church for 
forty-five years. In politics he is a fvepublican. 

FRANK M. UDALL, farmer, P. O. Hiram, was born in Hiram Township, 
this county, December 20, 1838; son of George and Melinda (Hutchins) 
Udall, natives of Vermont and New Hafnpshire respectively. They moved to- 
this county in 1818, where they lived until the death of Mr. Udall in 1857,, 
and where his widow still resides with our subject. Frank M. Udall was mar- 
ried in 1864 to Miss Clara A. Bishop, of Cleveland, Ohio, to which city her 
parents had emigrated from Nova Scotia about 1847. Her father died in that 
city, where her mother still resides. To the union of our subject and wife 
have been born five children: George M. , Jessie A., George F., Olevia and 
Don B., all living but George M. and Don B. Mr. Udall served fourteen 
months in the late war of the Rebellion, in Company A, Forty- second Regi- 
ment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He and his wife are members of tlie Christias 
Church at Hiram Center. He has served as Township Clerk. In politics he 
is a Republican. 

BENJAMIN F. WATERS, farmer, P. O. Garrettsville, was born in Trum^ 
bull County, Ohio, January 20, 1822; son of Gideon and Phcebe (Rhodes;) 
Waters, natives of Connecticut and New York State respectively, and whe 
were married in Chenango County, N. Y. About 1812 they came to TrumbuK 
County, Ohio, where they reared a family of eight children and where Gideon 
Waters died : his widow then removed to this county, where she passed the 
remainder of her days. Our subject was married in Trumbull County, Ohio, 
in 1846, to Miss Mary A. Hyde, whose parents were early settlers in this 
county, and where they died. To this union have been born two sons and two 
daughters: Emergene, Alva C. , Frank H. and Mary (latter deceased.) Ouer 
subject came into this county in 1865 and paichased land in the township 
where he now resides, devoting his time to general agriculture. He served 
under the 100- days call in the late war, a member of Company H, One Hun- 
dred and Seventy- first Regiment Ohio National Guards, and was captured, bat 
soon after paroled. He and his wife are members of the Christian Church, 
Politically he is a Republican. 

ERASTUS M. YOUNG, retired, P. O. Hiram, was born in Hiram Township, 
this county, April 2, 1813, son of George and Elizabeth (Montgomery) Young, 
of English descent, natives of Windham County, Conn., where they were married 
and whence they moved to this county in 1811. They settled in Hiram Township, 
where they cleared up a large farm, I'eared a family of five children, of wbona 
only our subject survives, and here the mother died in 1815, the father in 1823, 
At the age of sixteen our subject learned the trade of carpenter and joiner, 
which he followed principally for twenty-five years. He then purchased land 
in Hiram Township, which he farmed until 1880, when he sold the same and. 
moved to Hiram Center, where he now resides. He was married in 1837 to 
Miss Loi'ena E. Mackintosh, of Mantua Township, where her parents eettlei 



752 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

in an early day. She died August 13, 1839, mother of one daughter — Loreua 
E. Mr. Young then married in 1841 Miss Chestina Allyn, of Hiram Town- 
ship, a native of Connecticut, born May 29, 1821, and whose parents were 
also very early settlers in this county, where they spent the remainder of their 
lives. To this second union were born three children: Lorena A., Sutton E. 
and Clark M. Mr. and Mrs. Young are members of the Christian Church, in 
which the former has filled the office of Deacon over forty years. He is a 
Kepublican in politics. 



MANTUA TOWNSHIP. 

SAMUEL ALVOED, farmer, P. O. Mantua Station, was born in Kirtland, 
Lake Co., Ohio, August 19, 1823; son of Elijah and Mary (Barker) Alvord, 
the former of whom was born at Colchester, New London Co., Conn., June 12, 
1773, and the latter in Dutchess County, N. Y., June 14, 1793. They were mar- 
ried in the latter State May 25, 1819, and the same year removed to Ohio. Our 
subject came to Mantua in April, 1833, where he was educated, and November 
17, 1847, he married Serena, daughter of Phineas U. Jennings, born July 12, 
1823, on the old homestead, Lot 39, Mantua. By this union there is one child, 
a son — Phineas Elbert — born October 24, 1868, the only grandchild of P. U. 
Jennings. Om' subject early learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed 
for many years. He is strictly temperate; has never bought a glass of liquor 
at any bar for himself or any one else yet, or used tobacco in any way. He 
now resides on his farm, which is a part of Lots 38 and 39, in Mantua, and 71 
in Shalersville Townships, where, by honest industry and fair dealing, united 
with a systematic and practical knowledge of the wants and duties of life, he 
has surrounded his home with the comforts and conveniences necessary for the 
enjoyment of rural life. 

ALLEN A. BARBER, merchant, Mantua Station, was born May 1, 1833, 
in Freedom Township, this county; son of Capt. Harmon andLucena (Daniels) 
Barber, natives of Ohio. Capt. Harmon Barber, an eccentric citizen, was 
elected to the command of a company of militia after the war of 1812 and 
proved himself to be one of the best commanders of the day. He was one of 
sixteen children, and he himself raised a family, whose names are Calvin, mar- 
ried to Louise, sister of Gen. Leggett, and residing in Iowa; Allen A. ; Ches- 
ter T., married to Ursula Halstead, also in Iowa; Brewster O., died in Gar- 
rettsville, Ohio, of disease contracted in the army, during the late war of the 
Rebellion (he was married to Ann Henry); Polly (deceased). Our subject was 
married, January 9, 1850, to Helen, daughter of William and Chloe McClin- 
tock, by whom he had four children: Fred A., married to Florence Burroughs; 
Will H. ; Frank M. and George A. Mr. Barber for many years has been a 
member of the firm of Barber & Smith, one of the oldest in Garrettsville or 
Portage County, and for a long period was senior member of the firm of 
Barber & Sons, of Mantua. He is a Knight Templar, and W. M. of Mantua 
Lodge, No. 533, and was the first Odd Fellow initiated in Garrettsville Lodge. 

FREDERICK P. BARD, furniture dealer, Mantua Station, was born Feb- 
ruary 3, 1845, in Kent Township, this county; son of Pelatiah and Hannah 
(Lanning) Bard, the former of whom was born in Connecticut in 1802; the 
latter, a native of Upper Canada, was born in 1801. They were the parents of 



MANTUA TOWNSHIP. 75S 

nine childi'en: Caroline, Martha C, Frances L., Mary C, Helen H., George 
W., Charles H., William F. and Frederick P. During the late war of the 
Rebellion three of the sons enlisted in the service of their country: Charles 
H. was a member of Company F, Seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry, he is now 
a resident of St. Louis, Mich.; William F. was in the Forty-fifth Mounted 
Infantry and died in Andersonville Prison; Frederick P. served for a time 
under Gen. Garfield in Company A, Forty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, 
but received an honorable discharge on account of disability caused by sick- 
ness from which he has never fully recovered. He was married, May 30, 1871, 
to Jennie A., only child of Charles and Sarah Baker, of Irish descent, with 
whom they make their home. By this union there is one child — Sarah A. 
Mr. Baker, a native of Onondaga County, N. Y., came here in 1869, bought the 
land on which they live from John Craft, and built a fine brick residence. 
His family are all members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Bard is 
a reputable citizen of Mantua Township; a member of the G. A. R. ; also a 
Good Templar. He is now engaged in the furniture business, which was estab- 
lished in 1881. 

C. A. BARTHOLOMEW, farmer, P. O. Aurora Station, was born August 
31, 1828, in Auburn, Geauga Co., Ohio; son of Jonathan F. and Mary (Wil- 
son) Bartholomew, natives of Onondaga County, N. Y., and Montpelier, Vt, 
respectively, and who came to Ohio in 1814, passing en route through 
Buffalo at the time that city was in flames, it having been fired by the 
British, settling permanently in Auburn Township, Geauga County. They 
had a family of twelve, nine of whom grew to manhood and womanhood, 
eight now living: Perleyett (Mrs. Frazee) in Burton, Geauga County; Julyann 
(Mrs. Redtield) in Fayette County, Iowa; C. A.; N. S. ; Betsey (Mrs. L. Reed) 
in Burton; Mary (Mrs. Canfield) in Auburn; Alonzo D. in La Fayette County, 
Iowa; T. C. P. in Auburn. Jonathan P. Bartholomew died February 5, 1863; 
his widow survived until February 22, 1884. Our subject was married, in 1852, 
to Emily, daughter of Chauncey Wincheli, a native of Suffield, Mass., and 
whose history will be found elsewhere. Mr. Bartholomew is a prosperous 
farmer; he is prominently identified with the Masonic fraternity, being a 
member of Lodge 213. Twinsburg. 

SYLVESTER BEECHER (deceased) was born at Milford, Conn., January 
23, 1786, son of Jonathan and Polly Beecher. He removed to Ohio* when 
twenty-one years of age, having, prior to leaving his native State, contracted 
with a party named Canfield, to superintend the building of the first mill ever 
erected at Newton Falls, Trumbull County. He made the journey to Ohio on 
foot, and being robbed, (?u ro«<^e, of $4, which comprised his wordly possessions, 
he arrived at his destination penniless and a stranger. He completed his con- 
tract, however, after which he was employed as a laborer in the brick yard of 
Wilcox & DeWolf, of Vernon, Trumbull County, and while with them he 
made the acquaintance of Miss Betsey Bushnell, who subsequently became his 
wife. Upon the dissolution of his connection with this firm he visited an uncle, 
then residing at Shalersville, Mr. Hine, father of the late Abel Hine of that 
township. While with his uncle he was induced to purchase the old home- 
stead, which was then in Middletown, now Shalersville Township, from a Mn 
Shaler, after whom the village of Shalersville or Shalersville Center was named- 
After Mr. Beecher purchased his first 100 acres he entered Mr. Shaler' s service, 
and made his first payment on his land by clearing the village lands and 
adjoining roads of timber. About this time he eulisted in the war of 1812, 
bat returned after a four months' service, having been slightly wounded in the 
head dui-ing a skirmish with the Indians, and began to improve his purchase. 



754 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

He then visited his native State, working there in a woolen and button factory 
■antil he had earned more than enough to complete the payment on his land. 
Investing in a stock of goods he came back to Ohio with a team and wagon, 
defraying his expenses by selling a part of his stock, and renting a room in 
Yernon Township, Trumbull County, he disposed of the residue. Soon after 
he made a third trip to Connecticut, returning with another stock of goods, 
which were placed on sale where now stands the village of Palmyra. On July 
16, 181G, he married Miss Betsey Bushnell and by her had twelve children, 
seven of whom survive: Kosella (Mrs. Horr, a widow), Samuel, Austin, Harriet 
(Mi-8. W. W. Patton, of Kent), Lura (Mrs. Dr. C. S. Leonard, in Ravenna), 
Electa (Mrs. George R. Miller) and John H. The last mentioned was born in 
Shalersville Township, June 21, 1841, was educated at Hiram College, where 
Uarfield received his training, and married March 29, 1880, Miss Georgia, 
daughter of A. N. Farr, Esq., one of the leading citizens of Mantua Township, 
this county. He (John H. ) is now General Agent for the Ohio Farmers Insur- 
ance Company; he is prominently connected with the I. O. O. F. and Lodge 
533, F. & A. M., of Mantua Station. The subject of this sketch (Sylvester 
Beecher) died in 1855, leaving an estate estimated at $95,000, most of which 
is in Mantua Township. His widow departed this life June 10, 1884. 

AUSTIN S. BEECHER, hardware merchant, Mantua, was born February 
1, 1830, in the township of Shalersville. this county, son of Sylvester and 
Betsey (Bushnell) Beecher, natives of Connecticut, who came to Ohio at an 
©arly day. They were parents of twelve children, seven now living: Rosella 
|Mrs. Haw); Samuel S. ; Austin S. ; Harriet A. (Mrs. Patton), in Kent; Laura 
A. (Mrs. Dr. Leonard), in Ravenna; Electa (Mrs. George R. Miller), in Free- 
dom Township, and J. W. Our subject's father made several trips between 
this State and the East before settling permanently. The tirst journey he made 
on foot, bearing articles of merchandise to sell while en route; then in a wagon 
laden with commodities. He located in Shalersville, where he became a prom- 
inent merchant and a large land-holder. The subject of this sketch was mar- 
jied February 9, 1857, to Olive A., daughter of Jesse Brewster, and to this 
anion was born one son — Frank, educated at Oberlin and Hiram Colleges, from 
which he graduated in 1872 and 1873 respectively, and at the law school, 
Cleveland, Ohio, where he graduated in 1874. He is now an attorney at law 
in theJatter city. Our subject is one of the leading citizens of Mantua, and 
has lately opened a complete line of hardware, etc., in the new building 
erected by Charles Thomson. He has held the offices of Justice of the Peace 
and Overseer of the Poor for several years, and is a member of Mantua Lodge 
No. 533, A. F. & A. M. 

CHAUNCY BLAIR, farmer, P. O. Mantua Station, was born in Mantua 
Township, this county, February 7, 1819, son of John and Pattie (Smith) Blair, 
saatives of Massachusetts, who immigrated to this county in 1810, settling near 
where our subject now resides. John Blair built the tirst frame house in the 
township, procuring all his material from Pittsburgh (the nails used in its con- 
struction being hand made, with peculiar heads). It was formerly used as a 
hotel, and for many years was the temporary abiding-place for transient guests 
and for those who came into the county to settle. It stands on the farm of 
®ur subject, near the village of Mantua. John Blair was twice married, and 
liis family consisted of ten children, two of whom ax'e now living: Mrs. Annie 
Patterson, eighty-two years of age. and Chauncy. Our subject was married 
April 23, 1840, to Martha, third child of Lansing and Mary (Vantleet) Story, 
who were natives of Massachusetts, and the parents of seven children, four 
now living. Mr. Story came to this county in 1835 and settled near Mantua 



MANTUA TOWNSHIP. 755 

Center, but after a few years went West, subsequently returned and here died. 
To Mr. and Mrs. Chauncy Blair were born eight children, seven now living: 
Harriet, Delia, Jennie, Addie, Nettie. Frankie and Cora; Anson is deceased. 
Our subject and wife are enjoying the fruits of years of labor on their well 
iruproved farm, which comprises 450 acres of land. 

ELSTON R. BLAIR, farmer, P. O. Mantua Station, was born August 8, 
1826, in Mantua Township, this county, son of Alfred and Julia (Miller) Blair. 
His grandfather, John Blair, came to Mantua Township, this county, in 1806, 
and built and conducted the first hotel in Mantua, the same being constructed 
of frame, supplied with glass, etc. , purchased at Pittsburgh. The venerable 
building is still intact and stands on the farm of Chauncy Blair. Our subject 
was married June 15, 1852, to Lucy A., daughter of Avery and Annie Patter- 
son. Mr. and Mrs. Blair have no children. Mrs. Blair's father, Avery Pat- 
terson, was born in Chautauqua, N. Y., Octc>ber 27, 1792, and came to Ohio 
when but sixteen years of age, and here married Annie Blair, born in Blandf ord, 
Mass., in 1802, daughter of John and Pattie (Smith) Blair, who bore him two 
children, only one now living — Lucy A., wife of our subject. Mr. and Mrs. 
Patterson, pioneers on the borders of civilization, began life in the most prim- 
itive manner, and lived to see cities rise up in the wilderness and the fields to 
blossom as the rose. Mr. Patterson at one time owned over 900 acres of land. 
He died in 1859. His widow, now over eighty-two years of age, resides with 
Mr. Blair. 

FRANK BLAIR, farmer, manufacturer and dealer in cheese and butter, 
Mantua, was born January 6, 1846, on the fai'm where he now lives in this 
township, and on which his father first settled in 1827, son of Benjamin and 
Cynthia (Jeiferson) Blair, former a native of Blandford, Mass., born December 9, 
1802, latter of Wrentham, Mass. Benjamin Blair was brought to Mantua Town- 
ship, this county, in 1804 by his father, who was land agent here for the early set- 
tlers, and who subsequently revisited Massachusetts, but returned to Mantua, Ohio, 
in 1806, and was accidentally killed while "raising" a cabin in 1807, when Ben- 
jamin was but four years of age. Benjamin Blair married, in Mantua, Ohio, May 
17, 1827, Cynthia Jefferson, who bore him eight children, four of whom are now 
living: James J.; Nelson B., died October 28, 1884 (he was married first to 
Caroline, daughter of Alfred Blair, afterward to Mary Frost); Henry C, 
died in 1856; Newton, died April 18, 1851; Wallace B. , married for his first 
wife Sarah Eggleston, and for his second married Emma Talbot; Edwin, died 
in 1844; Austin A.,- was married October, 1876, to Minnie Hazlet; and Frank. 
Our subject was married January 22, 1872, to Annie, daughter of Carnot 
Mason, of Hiram, this county, who was a native of Vermont and parent of ten 
children, of whom Mrs. Blair is eighth. Mr. and Mrs. Blair have four chil- 
dren: Claud C, Frank B., Harry M. and Nina M. Our subject is a leading 
citizen of Mantua Township, where he has been extensively engaged in the 
manufacture of cheese for the past twelve years. He is a F. & A. M., con- 
nected with Lodge No. 533, of Mantua. In politics he is a Democrat. 

PETER CARLTON (deceased) was born June 3, 1787, in Stafibrd, Conn., 
and was a son of Caleb and Margaret Carlton, who were the parents of Han- 
nah, married to John Bestor; Caleb; Lucy, married to Alvin Bestor; Peter; 
Elias; Sallie, married to Willis Kneeland; Dudley. Our subject was the first 
Carlton to settle in this county, coming in 1811, his parents following in 1814. 
He was married, November 29, J 810, to Clarissa, daughter of Daniel and Per- 
sis (Davis) Ladd, and born February 25, 1779, one week before the inaugura- 
tion of George Washington as President. Says a writer: '"Here, amid the 
influence of the crude and imperfect civilization that existed in those early 



756 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

days, she was reared to habits of industry, and enjoyed only such educational 
advantages as the limited means of her pai'ents were able to bestow, until she 
was twenty-one years old." Soon after their marriage our subject and wife 
left for Ohio, and after a toilsome journey of twenty-seven days arrived at 
Painesville, Ohio, where they met Horace Ladd, who had preceded them a 
short time. With Mr. Ladd, Peter Carlton and his wife left their wagon and 
goods, mounted their horses and struck out for Mantua, and on their way, at 
Welshfield, they met a man whose track in the leaves served as a guide to their 
right course. At night they reached Blackbrook, a small stream with muddy 
bottom, which with care they managed to cross. While making preparations 
to cross they started a hog, which ran away, as they supposed, toward a house. 
They followed it, and soon came to the clearing of Eli as Harmon, and from 
there went to the clearing of Mrs. Carlton's brother, Eleazer Ladd, reaching 
there about 10 o'clock. They were desirous of settling in Geauga County, but 
the settlers of Mantua, being solicitous about increasing their settlement, 
offered to build them a house and render other necessary assistance. They 
were induced to make a final settlement. In 1812 the war broke out, and Mr. 
Carlton went forward to defend his country. After several years spent in 
clearing the farm, it was traded for the home now owned by their youngest 
son, P. A. Peter Carlton died in 1861; his widow survived him several years. 
One evening she listened to the reading of an excellent book, retired in her 
usual health, and was found the next morning apparently in a gentle sleep, 
but it was soon discovered that she was stricken from life's roll on earth and 
gathered into life eternal. She was the mother of ten children: George, born 
September 5, 1811, died August 29, 1836; Sherman, born June 21, 1813, died 
February 20, 1851; Caleb D., born May 22, 1815, died December 19, 1867; 
Francis, born April 29, 1817; Clarissa, born June 30, 1819, married Septem- 
ber 27, 1841, to I. P, Sperry; P, A.; Sallie, born August 1, 1823, died May 27, 
1845 (she married Robert McMurdy); Lydia, born August 14, 1825, died Sep- 
tember 27, 1845; Percis A., born July 4, 1829; Huldah E., born November 21, 
1833. P. A., who was born February 26, 1821, in Mantua Township, this 
county, attended the country schools and the school at Kirtland, and was 
brought up on a farm. He was married September 27, 1848, to Sallie A. Par- 
ker, born November 8, 1829, in Aurora, Ohio, daughter of Horace and Achsa 
(McElwain) Parker, natives, the former of this county, the latter of Vermont. 
The father, who was a member of the Presbyterian Church, died leaving her 
and Huldah, and the mother subsequently married James Pease, by whom she 
had eleven children, seven of whom are now living: Celia, Malinda, Sylvia, 
Helen, Abner, Samuel and Frank. The mother was a member of the Disciples 
Church. To P. A. Carlton and his wife were born ten children, nine of whom 
are now living: Arah, married to Carrie Donnel (he is a dentist at Mantua Sta- 
tion); Herbert, married to Tillie Parker; John and James (twins), the former 
married to Hettie Cobb, and the latter to Lou Whittier; Clara; GUy E. ; Per- 
sis E. ; Horace P. and Lucy A. P. A. Carlton and wife are members of the Dis- 
ciples Church. He owns the old homestead of 200 acres. Mr. Carlton was 
drafted in the late war and hired a substitute. In politics he is a Republican. 
His brother Sherman's son, Charles, was said, by James A, Garfield, who 
preached his funeral discourse, to have been the lirst Union man to shed blood 
in a regular engagement in the late war of the Rebellion. After being seriously 
wounded he was brought home by Francis Carlton, whose sketch appears else- 
where. In this volume will be found the portraits of Peter and Clarissa Carl- 
ton, who were exemplary Christian people. 

FRANCIS CARLTON, farmer, P. O. Mantua, was born April 29, 1817, in 
Mantua Township, Portage Co., Ohio, son of Peter and Clarissa (Ladd) Carl- 



MANTUA TOWNSHIP. 757 

ton, natives of Stafiford, Conn., and Marlboro, Mass., respectively, and who 
were the parents of ten children, five now living: Francis; Clarissa (Mrs. 
Sperry), in Tallmadge, Summit Co., Ohio; P. A., residing on the old home- 
stead; Hulda (Mrs. Sperry), in Tallmadge, and Percis A., widow of Charles 
Taylor, also in Tallmadge, Ohio. Peter Carlton and wife came to this county 
in the spring of 1811, and settled in Mantua Township, where he bought a 
farm, which in a few years he traded for one owned by B. F. Blair. He was 
a pioneer farmer of Mantua Township, and died May 27, 1861, aged seventy- 
five years. Clarissa (Ladd) Carlton died January 10, 1883, aged ninety-four 
years. Our subject was married October 23, 1839, to Polly, daughter of Dan- 
iel and Margaret (Squires) Bidlake, who came to Mantua Township, this 
county, in 1810. To Mr. and Mrs. Carlton have been born seven children: Gr. 
W., married to Chloe Hotchkiss; F. M. , married to Mary Nelson; Lydia A., 
wife of S. T. Thayer; A. P., married to Helen Cobb; Abbie, wife Charles 
Parker; Ida B. , wife of Caleb Kettring, and Emma M. 

LEVI E. CARLTON, farmer, P. O. Mantua, was born March 7, 1824, in 
Mantua Township, this county, son of Dudley and Lydia (Eaton) Carlton, 
natives of Stafford, Tolland Co., Conn., former born September 3, 1796, latter 
August 31, 1791, and who were married in 1814, and moved to Ohio in the 
same year. There were born to them five sons and one daughter, two sons 
and the daughter being deceased; two sons living in Mantua and one in Kan- 
sas: E. D., a widower, residing in Mantua; B. P. in Kansas; and Levi E. in 
Mantua. Dudley Carlton died in 1878, and his wife in 1868. Capt. Caleb 
Carlton, Dudley Carlton's father, was a soldier throughout the entire Revolu- 
tionary war, serving seven years. He moved to Ohio with his son, Dudley, 
and died in 1823. Our subject was married, October 16, 1851, to Mary L., 
daughter of Capt. John and Betsey W. Esty, and born December 18, 1830. To 
this union were born two sons, both of whom died in infancy. 

HENRY COBB, farmer, P. O. Mantua Station, was born April 22, 1821, 
in Suffield, Hartford Co., Conn., son of Samuel and Harriet (Sheldon) Cobb, 
natives of Connecticut. His paternal great-grandfather was Dr. Samuel 
Cobb, born August 25, 1716, in Wales, and who emigrated to New England, 
where he remained for a time at Barnstable, near Cape Cod, Mass. In 1743 he 
removed to Tolland, Conn., and was a celebrated physician and magistrate. 
He died universally lamented April 6, 1781. He married Maiy Hinkley, 
who died December 9, 1746, leaving two children. On April 11, 1749, he 
was again married, this time to Hannah Bicknell, by whom he had twelve 
children. David, one of his sons, born June 6, 1761, at Tolland, Conn., 
married Hope Norris, June 25, 1782, and by her had thirteen children; 
one of his sons, Samuel, was born June 2, 1785, and married, June 1, 
1820, Harriet, daughter of Oliver Sheldon, who bore him three children: 
Henry (our subject), Newton, born October 6, 1823, and Harriet, born 
February 18, 1828, now the widow of J. M. Taylor, of Toledo, Ohio. Our 
subject's father purchased several hundred acres of land in the Western Re- 
serve, and in June, 1833, removed with his family to Mantua Township, locat- 
ing on Lot 19, known as " Cobb's Corners," a postoflice being established 
there, of which Mr. Cobb was Postmaster for seventeen years, receiving his 
commission from Amos Kendall, Postmaster- General under Andrew Jackson. 
Mr. Cobb was a stanch Democrat and died December 22, 1852, his widow sur- 
viving him until December 16, 1860. Our subject passed his eai'ly years in 
Connecticut, and after coming here assisted his pai'ents to clear up the farm. 
His education was acquired during the winters in the primitive log-school- 
house and by studying at nights. He thus fitted himself to be a teacher, and 



758 BIOGRArHICAL SKETCHES : 

for many years followed this profession. On October 10, 1849, he married 
Antoinette H., daughter of Hezron Taylor, natives of Connecticut, by whom 
he has had five children: Helen F., born July 16, 1850 (married January 15, 
1874, to A. P. Carlton. They have four children: Henry Lee, born October 
26, 1875; Howard A., born June 25, 1880; Grace Gr., born November 3, 1882, 
and Emma A., born October 24, 1884); Frederick H., born July 12, 1854 
(married Harriet A. Folder October 1, 1882, and died December 23, 1884, 
leaving one son, Birchard F., born February 26, 1884); Hattie A., born April 
26, 1859 (married John D. Carlton, November 9, 1882); Clara B.,born March 2, 
1866, and Frances E., born January 17, 1869, died February 2, 1885. Our 
subject has been an active citizen of Mantua Township for years, and has 
filled all the important township offices acceptably. He holds two commissions 
for Justice of the Peace, issued by R. B. Hayes. 

NEWTON COBB, farmer, P. O. Mantua Station, brother of Henry Cobb 
(whose sketch appears above), was born in Suffield, Hartford Co., Conn., and 
came to this county with his father, Samuel Cobb, in 1833, locating on Lot 19 
in Mantua Township. He was united in marriage March 2, 1854, with Annis 
C. Carlton, and by this union has one child — Lura A., married to John B. 
King, April 7, 1877. 

STEPHEN J. DAVIS (deceased) was born October 10, 1816, in Delaware 
County, N. Y. ; son of Aca and Anna Davis. He was married August 31, 
1848, to Philena, daughter of Alonzo and Emily (Mount) Gates, of Harbor 
Creek Township, Erie Co. , Penn., who were the parents of five children, all 
now living, viz. : Grandison, married to Lucy Dalley, residing in Dakota; 
Abby, wife of S. Brown, at Chautauqua Lake; Pamelia, wife of William 
Trimble, formerly of Mt. Vernon, Ohio, now of Erie, Penn. ; Philena, the 
widow of our subject, and George, married to Julia Bostwick, in Springfield, 
Penn. Mrs. Davis was born in Erie County, Penn., and came here with her 
husband (on account of his failing health) and here bought a home. To our 
subject and wife was born one son — Clinton, married to Jennie, daughter of 
Ebenezer Mcintosh, of Mantua, Ohio. Stephen J. Davis departed this life in 
August, 1878. His widow makes her home with her son, Clinton, and is car- 
rying on a flourishing millinery and fancy goods store at Mantua Corners, 
where she is known as an affable, conscientious lady. 

J. H. DITTO, of the firm of J. H. Ditto & Sons, dealers in flour, 
feed and groceries, and proprietors of a livery, Mantua Station, was born 
November 1, 1828, thirty miles southeast of Montreal, Quebec; son of Peter 
and Mary (Bucheau) Ditto, who were the parents of twelve children, eleven 
now living. Our subject came to the United States in 1846, and during the 
year 1856 was married to Miss Mary E., daughter of Lawson and Emily (Fer- 
ris) Stearns, of Newbury, Geauga Co., Ohio. They have a family of three 
children: Frank S., Henry E. and Charles J., all of whom are associated with 
their father in business near the railroad depot. Our subject and his sons are 
leading citizens of Mantua Township, and are regarded as enterprising, pub- 
lic-spirited men. 

JOHN ESTY was born in Phelpstown, Ontario Co., N. Y., June 30, 1793, 
and his wife, Betsey W^ (Jones) was born in Middlefield, Berkshire Co., Mass., 
February 1, 1799. They moved to Mantua, this county, in 1818, and were 
married the same year. There were born to them four sons and three daugh- 
ters, of whom three sons and two daughters are now living. The four sons 
and two daughters lived to have homes of their own, and all resided in this 
State but one son, who died in Missouri August 13, 1871, aged forty seven 
years; one daughter died in infancy. John Esty was a soldier in the war of 



MANTUA TOWNSHIP. 759 

1812, and received a commission as First Lieatenaat in 1825 from Gov. Mor- 
row. In 1830, during the administration of Gov. Trimble, he was promoted 
to be Captain of the First Regiment of Rifles. He was a Democrat until the 
organization of the Republican party, with which he allied himself, and 
which he supported until his death. He was a man who maintained the best 
interests of his country, and was loved by all who knew him. He died Novem- 
ber 15, 1863, aged seventy-one years; his wife died November 10, 1869. Our 
subject is a citizen of wealth, influence and enterprise. He has served as 
Trustee of his township for two years. 

ALONZO N. FARR, farmer, P. O. Mantua Station, was born in East Clari- 
don, Geauga Co., Ohio, November 28, 1822, son of Abel and Betsey (Mastic) 
Farr, the former of whom was born in Chesterfield, Mass., May 6, 1795, and 
the latter in Dunsmore, Vt., July 16, 1796. Mrs. Betsey Farr's grandfather, 
John Mastic, was born in Scotland in 1717, and married Sarah Coy, born in 
1712 in Farmington, Mass. He was pressed into the English service, where 
he remained until reaching Boston Harbor, when he escaped, and in his flight 
exchanged clothes with a man digging a cellar under a mill, and also changed 
his name from Salter to Mastic, by which he was always known thereafter. 
Nathaniel Mastic, Mrs. Farr's father, was born in Massachusetts July 8, 1772, 
and married Lydia Caryl, born in 1771. Abel Farr, father of our subject, was 
married in 1819, came to Ohio the same year, and for two years resided on the 
present site of Elyria; thence he removed to Claridon, and in March, 1829, 
to this county, where he lived until 1837, when he went to Troy, Geauga 
County, where he remained until his death, April 20, 1864. His children, ten in 
number, survive: Lorenzo A., Alonzo N., LovellL, William H., Arvilla L., 
Edwin A., Lutheria E., Asenath M.,Eri M. and Orren S. Our subject was 
married November 20, 1845, to Annah P., daughter of Eber Kennedy, and by 
her has four daughters: Adell N. (Mrs. L. Turner), Edna M. (Mrs. S. San- 
ford), Frinda A. (Mrs. F. R. Munn) and Georgie A. (Mrs. J. H. Beecher). 
Mrs. Fai-r's grandfather, Simeon Pryor, came to Ohio in 1800, and was a 
soldier in the war of the Revolution. He settled in Portage County, Ohio, and 
died June 29, 1837. Mrs. Farr's father, Eber Kennedy, came to Ohio from 
Blanford, Mass., in 1804; settled in Aurora, Portage Co., Ohio; married 
Polly Pryor July 4, 1808; died May 15, 1837, aged fifty eight years. Polly, 
his widow died February 15, 1880, aged ninety-one years. Our subject has 
held the offices of Justice of the Peace twenty-one years, Township Trustee, 
Postmaster eight years, and is now a Notary Public. He is a Democrat in pol- 
itics, a valued citizen and an enterprising man. 

J. W. FOSTER, merchant, Mantua, was born June 26, 1817, in Mantua 
Township, this county, son of Jonathan and Betsey (Eggleston) Foster, 
natives of New Hampshire and Massachusetts respectively, and who first came 
to Suffield Township, this county, subsequently moving to Mantua Township, 
where they remained until their death. Jonathan Foster was a farmer by 
occupation, alive to every improvement. He endeavored to raise sheep, but 
his efforts proved a failure, as the first night three of his six sheep were 
devoured by wolves. He was a Justice of the Peace for many years, a Repre- 
sentative of this county in the Legislature, Associate Judge, a man of very 
decided ability. His children were seven in number, three now living: Mar- 
tha and Mary, maiden ladies residing on the old home farm, and J. W. Our 
subject was married in April, 1855, to Aurelia, daughter of Joel and Julia 
Chapman, latter the first white child born in Mantua Township, this county, a 
daughter of Elias Hai-mon. By the union of J. "W. Foster and wife were 
born four children, only one now living — Jessie A. Our subject has been 



7G0 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

engaged in mercantile trade in Mantua for forty-four years, and as Postmas- 
ter of the village nineteen years. He is one of the substantial business men 
of this place. 

JAMES FROST (deceased) was born in Blandford Township, Hampden 
Co., Mass., son of John and Eleanor Frost, His educational advantages were 
limited, as his father died when he was but eleven years old, and he was then put 
out to work. At the expiration of one year he returned home and took charge 
of the farm, remaining thus occupied until he was seventeen years of age. In 
May, 1816, being then twenty-five years old, he came to Ohio, and soon after 
married Semira, daughter of Samuel Forward, who came to Ohio in 1803, and 
whose family was the second to settle in Aurora Township, this county. Our 
subject and wife were the parents of seven children: Charles; Frank; John, a 
bachelor, a thorough business man, who is proprietor of the Mantua Steam 
Flouring Mills; Elmer, who was born October 22, 1826 (is now Trustee of the 
township, and has held other official positions; was married November 8, 
1848, to Rhoda, daughter of L. Reed, and they had two children: James B., 
married to Percis Barker, and Eva A., who died in infancy); Madison and Ben- 
ton, living in Auburn Township, Geauga Co., Ohio, and Mary, wife of Nelson 
Blair (have two daughters now residing in Parkman, Ohio). 

FRANK FROST, farmer, Mantua Corners, was born March 9, 1821, in 
this township, son of James and Semira (F'orward) Frost, and grandson of 
Samuel Forward an(J James Frost, natives of Massachusetts and early pioneers 
of Ohio, the foi'mer settling in Aurora Township, this county, in 1803, and 
the latter in Mantua in 1816. The father of our subject had six sons (five now 
living) and one daughter, viz. : Charles, Frank, John, Elmer, Madison, Benton 
and Mary, wife of Nelson Blair (have two daughters residing in Geauga 
County, Ohio). Our subject was married November, 1844, to Rhoda C. Bump, 
who died in 1865. He subsequently married Marcia A., daughter of Lot 
Mitchell, of Windham County, Conn. Mr. Frost has no children. He is a 
leading farmer and cheese manufacturer of this county, and has served his 
township as Assessor and Trustee. Politically he is a Democrat. 

JOHN FROST (deceased) was born in Mantua Township, this county, 
March 21, 1823, son of James and Semira (Forward) Frost, the former a 
native of Massachusetts, and came to Ohio in 1816, the latter born in Con- 
necticut, came in 1803. They were the second family in Mantua Township, 
and settled two miles west of the pi'esent site of Mantua Station. They reared 
a family of eight children, of whom five are now living: Frank, John, Mad- 
ison, Mary and Benton; Elmer and his wife died of pneumonia, former, Feb- 
ruary 14, latter, February 17, 1885, and their funeral obsequies were both held 
on same day. Our subject was a fai'mer and miller by occupation, and head 
of the firm of John Frost & Co., of the Centennial Mills, an establishment 
employing the new process roller system and possessing a capacity of turning 
out seventy-five barrels of flour per day. The Centennial is the leading mill 
in the vicinity. John Frost died of pneumonia February 22, 1885, aged sixty- 
one years. He was a citizen of capital, enterprise and public spirit. 

EDWIN M. FROST, farmer, P. O. Mantua Station, was born August 22, 
1832, in Mantua Township, this county; son of Marvin and Mary Ann (Demaw) 
Frost, former of whom, a native of Blandford, Mass., came to Mantua Town- 
ship, this county, in 1818, settling on Lot 33, now occupied by Nelson Brann; 
latter a French-Canadian. They had four children, three now living: J K., 
who was a resident of Hudson, Ohio, where he died in 1882 (leaving a widow 
and two children: Hallie and George); Lorenzo L. and Edwin M. In 1864 the 
parents of our subject removed to Hudson, where they passed the remainder 



MANTUA TOWNSHIP. 761 

of their days with their Bon J. K. Frost. In 1854 Edwin M. was married to 
Agnes A., daughter of Garrett C. Vanwagnen, who came to Ohio from New 
"York State and was the parent of a family of fifteen children, of whom Mrs. 
Frost is twelfth. To Mr. and Mrs. Frost have been born three children: R. 
F., a physician in Ashtabula County, Ohio; Lou Y. and Arthur E. at home. In 
politics our subject is a Democrat. 

DEMAS HARMON (deceased) was born January 11, 1805, in Suffield, 
Conn., son of Cephas and Deborah Harmon. He was married to Rachel Gil- 
lett, April 21, 1830, by whom he had live children: Maria R., wife of C. B. 
White (had six children: Elbridge G., Arthur H., Charles C, Fred H., Mary 
E. and Marcia M. ; three are still living: Charles C, Fred H. and Mary E.); 
Eloisa C, wife of E. M. Kent (have five children: Anna A., Demas E., Zenas 
A., Eleanor E. and Arthur A); Mary A., wife of F. Cantield, of Austin, III. 
(had two children: Louisa and Hatfcie B. ; Hattie B. is still living); Horace 
A., married Tryphena Reed (have two children: Vernie I. and Demas), and 
Silas D., a bachelor. In 1833, accompanied by his wife, he came to Chardon, 
Geauga Co., Ohio, where he remained until the spring of 1834, whonhe moved 
to Mantua, Portage Co., Ohio, and bought 215 acres of land. He died May 
19, 1842. His widow, in October of the same year, married King Nooney, a 
brother of Capt. Nooney of the war of 1812, and by him had one daughter — 
Sarah R.— now the wife of G. O. Reed. Mr. Nooney died October 9, 1848. 
His widow still resides on the farm located by her first husband many years 
ago. Her son, Silas D., who lives with her, has charge of the farm, dairy, 
etc., and is one of the leading farmers of thje town. 

SAMUEL HARMON, farmer, P. O. Mantua, son of Alexander and Mary 
(Hanchett) Harmon, was born in Suflfield, Conn., July 30, 1808, came to Ohio 
in 1834 and settled in the northern part of Mantua Township. In 1835 our 
subject married Jane Deming, daughter of Jonathan and Mary (Smith) 
Deming, and born in ^andisfield, Mass., November 1, 1815. By this union 
eight children were born, seven now living: Esther A. (Mrs. H. L. Moore, in 
Kansas), Orcelia J. (Mrs. H. H. Converse), Martha A. (Mrs. G. W. Stitt), Car- 
rie L. (Mrs. H. J. Sanford), Rhoda J. (Mrs. M. H. Case, in Illinois), Samuel 
(who married Sylvia, daughter of Charles Streator, of Shalersville, this county), 
and Fred H., residing with his brother Samuel at the old home. Jauuary, 
1875, Mr. Harmon buried his wife, and March, 1878, he married Mrs. Wood; 
they live near the old homestead. Our subject has held several offices of 
trust in the township, and is a quiet, unassuming, well-to-do farmer. 

HORACE D. HINCKLEY, farmer, P. O. Mantua Station, was born 
August 29, 1817, the second white child born in Auburn, Geauga Co., Ohio, 
son of Charles and Nancy (Turner) Hinckley, the former born in 1793, in Con- 
necticut, and the latter in 1791, in Massachusetts, but afterward removed to 
New York State, settling near Albany. They were married during the fall of 
1816, at Walworth, Wayne Co., N. Y., and the following winter moved to 
Geauga County, Ohio, making the journey on sleds drawn by oxen, and, en route, 
the party narrowly escaped death. While passing a clearing two trees fell, 
crushing one of the sleds and delaying the venturesome toilers in the unfre- 
quented pathways two days. They arrived at their destination in safety, how- 
ever, and lived for many years, Mr. Hinckley dying in 1842, and his widow 
during the year 1866. They reared a family of seven children, three sons now 
living: James B., Gilbert and Horace D. Our subject was married October 21, 
1846, to Sylvia, daughter of Moses and Celia Bradley, natives of Vermont and 
Russell, Mass., respectively, and who had four children, three now living: 
Martha (Mrs. Burnett), Lydia (Mrs. Zabriskie), both residing in Geauga 



762 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

County, and Mrs. Hinckley. Our subject has resided in this county since 
1865, and is one of the oldest members of Masonic Lodge, No. 553. 

PHINEAS U. JENNINGS (deceased) was born May 4, 1796, in Craftsbury, 
Vt. , son of Benjamin and Serena (Bigelow) Jennings, former born August 
29, 1752, died April 14, 1836; latter born March 16, 1765, died April 16, 
1835. They were married November 13, 1786, and were the parents of 
eight children: Betsey, born October 16, 1787; Anna, born January 8, 
1791; Lucretia, born October 13, 1793; Phineas U., born May 4, 1796; 
Talmon, born July 4, 1798; Lucy M., born December 21, 1801; Elial, 
born July 15, 1804; Benjamin, born May 1, 1807. Our subject, when eight 
years old, was bound out to Daniel Freeman, a farmer and hotel-keeper, 
and with him remained until he reached his majority. He then started 
on life's career with one suit of clothes. "When with Freeman he cut 
a cord of wood, hauled it seven miles, and with the means obtained by the 
sale of the wood he purchased a "Scholar's Arithmetic," dated 1814, which is 
well preserved by his daughter, Mrs. Alvord. In 1821 he came to Ohio, driv- 
ing a team for Benjamin Dow, whose wife was a sister to Judge Foster. The 
journey was made with a sled, and while crossing a lake the ice broke, and 
Mr. Jennings' cabinet got wet and with it his family Bible, the only gift of 
his father, which is also held in good preservation by his daughter, Mrs. 
Alvord. It was published in 1789. His first purchase of land was in 1821 
in Mantua Township, this county, the tract being sixty-four acres of wild for- 
est, and clearing it, he made it his home for life, adding thereto, from time to 
time, until he became the possessor of 300 acres besides considerable other 
property, all acquired, not by fortunate speculation, but by honest and patient 
industry. With a limited education he was a close observer, and with a strong 
and vigorous intellect he rapidly formed an accurate judgment of men and 
things, and in active life was one of the substantial and reliable citizens of 
the township. Being stricken with blindness in his old age, he bore the afflic- 
tion with cheerfulness, patiently awaiting for his eyes to be opened in the 
"home over there," where his aged companion had preceded him about two 
years. He was certain of good treatment by his son-in-law and daughter, Mr. 
and Mrs. Alvord, and hence chose them to care for him to the close of his life, 
which ended June 26, 1882. June 16, 1822, he was married to Cleona Wil- 
mot, born April 23, 1806, in Cheshire, New Haven Co., Conn., and in 1814 
she came to Ohio with her widowed mother, sister and brother, Ella Wilmot. 
To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Jennings were born Serena, July 12, 1823; Cor- 
delia, born May 28, 1828, died March 9, 1832; Eoena C, born September 5, 
1830; Cordelia E., born Julv 25, 1832, died December 7, 1835. Mrs. Jennings 
died March 26, 1880. They united with the Disciples Church in 1838, and 
died in full faith. Their property was divided equally between their two 
daughters. Through a kindly regard for the memory of the deceased and a 
desire to perpetuate his name, Mr. and Mrs. Alvord have contributed to this 
work a portrait of Phineas U. Jennings. Elsewhere in this volume will be 
found a brief biography of Mr. Alvord, who has always been closely identified 
with Portage County. 

EDGAR M. KENT, farmer, P. O. Mantua, was born November 22, 1828, 
in Aurora Township, this county, son of Amasa and Eleanor (Johnson) Kent, 
natives of Tolland, Conn., who came to Mantua Township, this county, at an early 
period and here passed the remainder of their days. Amasa Kent died Jan- 
uary 4, 1881, his wife having preceded him May 1. 1870. Our subject, their 
only child, was married June 17, 1852, to Eloisa C, daughter of Demas and 
Rachel Harmon, who were the parents of five children, Mrs. Kent being the 



MANTUA TOWNSHIP. 763 

second. Demas Harmon died in 1842, and bis widow subsequently married 
King Noney, and is now a resident of Mantua. Mr. and Mrs. Kent have five 
children: Annie A., wife of Albert A. Giles (have one child — Georgiana); 
Demas E. ; Zenas A., married to Emma E. Plumb; Eleanor E. ; Ai-thur H. 
Mr. Kent, who lives on his father's old farm, is one of the leading farmers of 
Mantua Township, a member of the Disciples Church; he is a Republican in 
politics. 

HORACE LADD, Sr. (deceased), was born in Vernon, Conn., October 18, 
1789, and came to Ohio in 1811, settling in Mantua Township, this county. 
Four years later, in 1815, he married Eunice R., daughter of Samuel Moore, 
a native of Connecticut, and Avho moved to this State in 1806, locatino- on Lot 
20, in the eastern part of Mantua, but dying on Lot 27, where Horace Ladd, 
Jr., now resides. To Mr. and Mrs. Ladd were born seven children, live now 
living: Calista R. (Mrs. H. Hart); Eunice (Mrs. C. Wood); Horace, Jr.; 
Perley (Mrs. A. W. Seymour) and Rodolphus, who married Harriet C. Chapin. 
Horace Ladd, Jr., was married, January 9, 1853, to Abigail C, dauo-hter of 
Lorenzo and Maria Chapin, and widow of Mr. Griffen, by whom she had one 
child — Frank P. Griffen, married to Mary J. Jones; and to Mr. and Mrs. 
Ladd have been born six children, five now living: Willie H. , Georo-e C, 
Hattie E., Henry K. and Eva J. George C. married Charlotte A. Jones, of 
Indiana (have two children: Jesse and an infant) and resides in Malcolm, 
Neb. Horace Ladd, Jr., has served twelve years as Justice of the Peace, also 
for many years as Township Clerk and Trustee. He is a Republican in poli- 
tics. His grandfather and five brothers served in the Revolutionary war and 
his father in the war of 1812. 

RODOLPHUS LADD, farmer, P. O. Mantua, was born July 27, 1830, in 
Mantua Township, Portage Co., Ohio, son of Horace Ladd (a soldier in 
the war of 1812) and Eunice K. (Moore) Ladd, former of whom came to this 
county in 1811; the latter, a daughter of Samuel Moore, came to this county 
in 18(36. They settled in Mantua Township, and were the parents of follow- 
ing children: Calista (Mrs. Hart), Eunice S. (Mrs. Wood), Lucy (deceased), 
Perley (Mrs. A. AV. Seymour), Rodolphus and Horace, Jr. Our subject was 
married January 25, 1854, to Harriet E., daughter of Lorenzo and Maria 
(Kent) Chapin, pai-ents of seven children, four of whom sui'vive: Henry A., 
Abigail, Charles E. and Harriet E. (Mr. and Mrs. Chapin settled in Mantua 
Township, this county, in 1814, owned the farm where our subject now resides, 
and died here, the former March 14, 1875, and the latter six years later.) Mr. 
and Mrs. Rodolphus Ladd have had three children: Emma (Mrs. Bliss) in Ells- 
worth, Kan., Frank C. at home, and Charlie G., who died at the age of ten 
years. Our subject has served his township as Treasurer for two years, and 
School Director many years. 

JESSE LING was born March 3, 1842, in New York State, son of Edward E. 
and Betsey Ling, who were the parents of Mary A. , Edward, James, Jane, Walter, 
Jesse and Robert. He was married October 15, 1866, to Roena C, daughter 
of Phineas U. and Cleona (Wilmot) Jennings (who were married June 16, 
1822), former born May 4. 1796, in Craftsbury, Vt., son of Benjamin Jen- 
nings, who was born August 29, 1752, and Serena (Bigelow) Jennings, who was 
born March 16, 1765; latter born April 23, 1806, in New Haven County, Conn. 
Phineas U. Jennings came to Ohio in 1821 and purchased sixty- four acres of 
land in Mantua Township, paying $8 per acre, and this he made his life 
home, adding to it from time to time till he became the owner of 300 acres 
besides much other proparty. He was a rugged pioneer living in a rude cabin 
on his farm until 1833, when he erected a frame house in which he resided all 



764 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

his days. He made four trips to the East, sometimes by sleigh and sometimes 
by wagon, and also by rail; his last trip was made in 1870. His wife was a 
sister of E. Wilmot, who, accompanied by his mother and her family, came to 
Ohio in 1814 and settled in Mantua Township. They were parents of the fol- 
lowing children: Serena, born July 12, 1823; Cordelia, born May 28, 1828, 
died March 9, 1832; Koena C, born September 5, 1830, and Cordelia E., born 
July 25, 1832, died December 7, 1835. Phineas U. Jennings died June 26, 
1882; his wife, March 26, 1880. Jesse Ling was at one time a mariner, and 
for three years served in the United States Navy. He and his wife have no 
children of their own, but have an adopted daughter named Sadie J. Ling. 
They occupy a lai'ge tract of land in the southei'n part of this township, a 
portion of which is Mrs. Ling's share of her father's estate. 

HEZEKIAH MAY (deceased) was born April 3, 1782, in Pomfret, Wind- 
ham Co., Conn., son of Ithimer May, He was married February 10, 1812, to 
Artemesia White, who bore him four children: Jude S., Olivia S., Delos W., 
and Norman (deceased in 1850). Jude S. was born in 1815, in Otsego County, 
N. Y., and married, September 3, 1845, Zelia, daughter of A. Patterson, by 
whom he had two children: Hezekiah and Florence, the former married to 
Bessie Luce, September 25, 1877, and has one child — Zelia. Olivia S., the 
second child, is married to E. Mitchell, and resides in Nebraska. Delos W. 
was born in New York State, May 15, 1822, and has been twice married; his 
first wife, Miranda Mitchell, was a native of Connecticut, and died February 
3, 1853, leaving two children: AdelbertD., married to Ijilliau Bidlake, and 
Norman L., married to Cornelia Lester. On August 21, 1853, Delos W. married 
his second spouse, Elizabeth A., daughter of George W. King, also of New 
York State, and by her has two daughters: Emma M. (Mrs. A. Carlton) and 
Cora D. Our subject accompanied his family to Ohio in 1829 and settled in 
Mantua Township, where he had purchased a tract of 100 acres from the Shel- 
don heirs, the deed being drawn up by Judge Harmon. This property was in 
an unbroken wilderness and contained but a small improvement, a building 
reared by Mr. Olney for milling purposes. He cleared this laud, however, 
erected the second mill in the township and accumulated a productive estate. 
He died in 1854. Delos May has been a successful miller for many years and 
is universally esteemed for his probity and enterprise. He has served hia 
township in various official positions, such as Trustee and School Director. 

CHAUNCEY MESSENGER, farmer, P. O. Mantua, was born December 9, 
1821, in Mantua Township, this county; son of William and Ruth (Miller) 
Messenger, natives of Connecticut and pioneers of Ohio, whither they came in 
1815, and to this county one year later, settling on the farm where Mr. Kilby 
now (1885) resides. They were the parents of twelve children: Will- 
iam A. (deceased), married to Elizabeth Skinner (deceased), afterward to 
Betsey Douglas; Jerome, now residing in Coldwater, Mich., married to 
Maranda Thomas (deceased); Clemon, married to Pletus Skinner; Zerina 
(Mrs. H. Coe) now a widow; Voyla, married to Mrs. Eliza Willcutt Jud- 
son, a widow (deceased); Cebra (deceased); Milton (deceased); Rectina 
(Mrs. Rufus Edwards), a widow; Chauncey; Franklin, married to Caroline 
Goddard; Aflta (Mrs. R. E. Mcintosh), and Henry, married to Harriet Fuller. 
Our subject was twice married, first occasion September 23, 1857, to Susan 
Phelps, who died May 29, 1859, leaving one child — Mary S. He next mar- 
ried, March 11, 1860, Clarissa Walker, daughter of Josiah and Eunice (Wis- 
well) Walker, by whom he has had five children: Chauncy L. , Susan A. 
(deceased), Jenny E., Grant and John W. Mr. Messenger is one of the most 
substantial men of this township, and has served as Trustee, School Director, 
etc., etc. 



MANTUA TOWNSHIP. 765 

FKANKLIN MESSENGER, farmer, P. O. Mantua, was born October 13, 
1824, in Mantua Township, this county; son of William and Ruth (Miller) 
Messenger, natives of Granby, Hartford Co., Conn., who removed to Ohio in 
1814, settling in Mantua Township, this county, where they reared a family of 
twelve children: Alvira (deceased); Jerome, residing at Coldwater, Mich.; 
Clement, in Geauga County, Ohio; Zernia (Mrs. Coe), a widow; Viola, in 
Mantua; Sobradid; Milton (deceased); Rectina (Mrs. Edwards), residing in 
Oberlin, Ohio; Chauncey, in Mantua; Franklin; Affa (Mrs. Mcintosh), in 
Mantua; Henry, in Mantua. William Messenger, who was a farmer by occu- 
pation, died November 18, 1853, aged seventy-three years and his widow 
August 13, 1875, at the advanced age of ninety-one. Our subject was mar- 
ried, October 5, 1847, to Caroline Goddard, daughter of Diyden and Maria 
(Merriman) Goddard, the former of whom died in 1871, aged sixty-eight, and 
the latter in 1872, aged sixty-six. Mr. and Mrs. Messenger have had nine 
children: Ellen (Mrs. Rogers), George (deceased), Alvirus (deceased), Har- 
riet (Mrs. Cox), Flora, Mila A. (Mrs. Dines), Martha (Mrs. Russell), 
Frank and Alice. 

SAMUEL NOBLE, manufacturer of cheese, P. O. Mantua Station, is a 
native of Trumbull County, Ohio, where he was born July 27, 1854; son of 
William and Elizabeth (Meggs) Noble, natives of Ireland, who came to Ohio 
in 1844, settling in Trumbull County. Here they reared and educated their 
family of nine children and fitted them for the various duties of life. Our 
subject was one of twin brothers, and after completing his studies, acquired 
the art with which he has so long been identified. He now owns and operates 
a cheese factory, located in the southern part of Mantua Township, which is 
well organized, fully equipped and supplied with every facility for the busi- 
ness in which our subject has scored a very pronounced success. The factory 
is operated eight months in the year and has a capacity of turning out 520 
cheeses per month, most of which is shipped to Boston, Mass. Our subject 
was married, March 9, 1882, to Miss Emma, daughter of Capt. Bissell. 

GEORGE NOLD, miller, Mantua, was born March, 1840, in Fairfield 
Township, Columbiana Co., Ohio; son of Jacob and Catharine (Ziegler) Nold, 
natives of Bucks and Lancaster Counties, Penn., and among the earliest settlers 
in Columbiana County, Ohio. Jacob Nold was a miller, and brought into that 
county the first set of French buhr stones for milling purposes. He and his wife 
lived and died in Columbiana County after raising a family of fourteen chil- 
dren, twelve of whom are still living: Elizabeth (Mrs. Yoder); John, married 
to Esther Huber; Susan (Mrs. Esterly); Mary (Mrs. Blosser;; Abraham, mar- 
ried to Sarah Sitler; Barbara (Mrs. Detwiler); Jacob, married to Nancy 
Kindy; Samuel, married to Velina Sitler; David, married to Emaline Moyer; 
Nancy (Mrs. Staufifer); Catharine (deceased); George, married to Lydia 
Schwartz; Alevia (deceased); and Sarah (Mrs. Newcomer). George Nold and 
his partner, John Frost, are now running the leading flburing-mill in Mantua. 
This mill is provided with all the latest improvements, rollers, etc., with a 
capacity of turning out seventy -five barrels of flour daily, and is of great 
advantage to the village. 

COL. C. H. RAY, merchant and Postmaster, Mantua, is a native of 
Mantua, Portage Co., Ohio, born October 31, 1835, and now owns the farm on 
which he was born and reared. His grandfather served in the Revolutionary 
Army, his father in the war of 1812, in a Mantua company, and himself, with 
five brothers, served in the Union Army in the war of the Rebellion. He 
attended school at Hiram in the early days o^ that very excellent and popular 
school at that place, and at the time Rev. Sutton Hayden was President of the 

40 



766 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

institute, and James A. Garfield a student and teacher of classes. Our sub- 
ject worked on his father's farm in summer and taught a district school in 
winter. From first to last Mr. Ray was an enemy of the slave power, and 
when Kansas commenced her struggle for freedom his attention was attracted 
in that direction, and in 1856, while yet a boy, with an older brother, he drove a 
team of horses attached to a covered wagon from Wisconsin to Kansas, a distance 
of nearly 1,000 miles, camping out and sleeping in the wagon nights during the 
whole journey, a trip he enjoyed very much. He remained in Kansas for two 
years clerking in a store for an elder brother and working in a mill. Here he voted 
against the Pi-o-slavery Constitution and its propositions, and for a Free State 
Constitution for Kansas. While here he was honored with an introduction to 
John Brown of Harper's Ferry fame, who frequently called at his brother's 
house during those troublesome times, and whom he has ever regarded as a 
man of very high character, and a man of pure principles, a prophet born 
before his day, and in 1883 wrote a lengthy article for the National 
Tribune, Washington, D. C, on John Brown's work in Kansas, that was well 
received by the public and read with much interest. He returned to Ohio in 
the spring of 1859, worked on the farm at home and taught a winter term of 
school io his home district where he had learned his A B C's. He enlisted in 
the army in the early part of the summer of 1862, being the fifth one of a 
family of six boys to join the Union Army. On the fourth day of July, 1863, 
Mr. Ray was elected Captain of a Mantua company of Ohio militia and com- 
missioned as such by His Excellency, David Tod, Ohio's great war Governor, 
and on the 22d day of Sej^tember of the same year he was elected and com- 
missioned Colonel of the First Regiment Ohio Militia in Portage County. At 
the close of the civil war he engaged in the milling business for a few years, 
and in 1867 engaged in mercantile business, which pursuit, together with 
farming, he is now in, having carried on the mercantile business in Mantua 
and in the same building for more than eighteen years. He is now and has 
been Postmaster at Mantua for the past eighteen years, having received his 
appointment under Andrew Johnson's administration. Col. Ray was married, 
on the 22d day of June, 1868, to Miss Martha A. Cochran, daughter of the 
Hon. Leverett Cochran, who represented Portage County in the Ohio Legisla- 
ture in 1854 and 1855. Our subject has always taken an active part in poli- 
tics, being a stanch and uncompromising Republican, and upon Gen. J. A. 
Garfield receiving the nomination for President in 1880, he at once took the 
stump for his old teacher and neighbor and labored hard for the Republican 
cause in Ohio and Pennsylvania, and was rewarded for his labor by seeing his 
old friend seated in the Presidential chair. Born to labor and inured to toil, 
Col. Ray has led an active and industrious life, and by strict economy and 
close attention to business has accumulated a handsome competency, but has 
at no time allowed his bxisiness to occupy his whole time and attention, but 
has traveled quite extensively in this country, and seconded by a good wife, 
tries to enjoy life by getting the most out of it as it comes along. During the 
summer of 1884 Col. and Mrs. Ray crossed the continent, traveling quite 
extensively in the great West, and visited the Pacific Coast and the wonderful 
"Yellowstone National Park." He wrote up the country and their tour for a 
home paper, and on their return the Colonel took the lecture platform, where 
he has delivered his lecture entitled " The National Park." Col. Ray is one 
of the charter members of Mantua Lodge, No. 533, F. & A. M., also a charter 
member of Richardson Council, No. 63, R. & S. M., Cryptic Masonry, 
Ravenna, Ohio, and a charter member of Bentley Post, No. 294, G. A. R., of 
Mantua. ' 



MANTUA TOWNSHIP. 767 

SAMUEL S. RUSSELL, retired coal dealer, Mautua, was born May 14, 
1807, in Jeflerson County, N. Y. ; son of Return and (Jei-usha) Osborn Rus- 
sell, natives of West Windsor, Conn., who removed to New York at an early 
day, thence to near Cleveland, in W^arnersville Township, Cuyahoga Co., 
Ohio, in 1822, where they lived and died. They were parents of eleven chil- 
dren, seven of whom are still living: Edward A. ; Samuel S. ; Rachel A. (a 
maiden lady residing with the society of Shakers); Robert E., in Iowa; Mary 
A. (Mrs. Philips), in Glenville; William H., in California; Sanford H. (a 
widower). Our subject was married April 1, 1860, to Adeline H., daughter of 
Elijah Russell, who died December 26, 1883, without issue. Mr. Russell was 
formerly a Shaker, and filled all the prominent offices in that society. He 
resided for a time in Wisconsin, where he was Justice of the Peace, but 
removed to this county in 1866, and is now one of the leading citizens of 
Mantua. He has an adopted son, George S. Russell, a photographer, married 
to Lovetta Kyle, by whom he has two cliildren. Our subject is a Republican 
in politics, and cast his first Presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln. 

C. H. SAGE, proprietor of the Mantua House, Mantua Station, was born 
July 28, 1847, in Freedom Township, this county; son of Roswell and Minerva 
(Hawley) Sage, natives of Massachusetts, who came to Portage County, Ohio, 
in about 1830, and settled in Freedom Township, where the father has 
remained to the present time. Roswell Sage was twice married, on first 
occasion to Miss Hawley, who bore him seven children: C. R. ; H. H. ; Dwight; 
C. H. ; Roswell; Clita, wife of E. Tuttle, Jr., and Harriet, widow of S. S.' 
Hurlburt. Mrs. Sage died in 1850, and Mr. Sage subsequently married Mrs. 
W. Parshall, by whom he has three children living: Theodocia. Flora and 
George. Our subject, September 3, 1879, married Anna Hare, whose parents 
are natives of Maryland. For a time Mr. Sage engaged in the grocery busi- 
ness at Mantua, but subsequently disposed of same to Mr. Beecher and took 
possession of the Mantua Hotel, located near the railroad depot in Mantua, 
and which is known as one of the best appointed and conducted establish- 
ments of the kind in the township. 

JASON SANFORD (deceased) was born December 80, 1800, in Massachu- 
setts, son of Samuel and Rhoda Sanford. He came to this county in 1816 and 
lived for a time with Squire Atwater, an early settler, when he learned the 
trade of a blacksmith. On November 1, 1827, he married Hannah, daughter 
of Daniel and Hannah (Burt) Ladd, the former of whom was a native of 
Massachusetts; settled in Mantua Township in 1811, and here passed the re- 
mainder of his days. He was a tanner, currier and shoe-maker. He reared a 
family of nine children, three of whom now live: Mary (Mrs. Denman); Dan- 
iel B., residing in Claridon Ohio; and Hannah, widow of our subject. To 
Mr. and Mrs. Sanford were born seven children: Persis J., Martin B. , Henry 
J. and Laura L. living; Delia M. died June 15, 1855. Alice A., May 22, 
1862, and Sylvia, August 21, 1877. Persis J. became the wife, in 1853, of 
W. H. Bowen, a native of Vermont, and has borne him two children: C. H. 
and Willie R., both educated at Hiram College and Akron College, the former 
of whom married Emma Wespeaker, and the latter Hattie Baldingei-. Mr. 
Sanford died in 1848, and his widow now resides with her daughter, Mrs. 
Bowen, whose husband's family came from Vermont and settled in Hiram in 
1833, where they spent the remainder of their days. Mr. Bowen is a member 
of Masonic Lodge, No. 533, of Mantua. He is a leading man in the com- 
munity, ya^ 

H. J. SANFORD, farmer, P. O. Mantua Station, was born in November, 
1838, in Mantua, this county; sou of Jason and Hannah (Ladd) Sanford, 



768 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

natives of Massachusetts, who came to this county and settled in Mantua 
Township in 1811. They had seven children, four of whom are now living: 
Persis (Mrs. Bowen), Martin, H. J. and Laura (Mrs. Crane). Our subject was 
married April 10, 1867, to Carrie Harmon, the fourth of nine children, whose 
father, an old settler, now resides in the north part of Mantua. Mr. and Mrs. 
Sanford are the parents of three children: Alice J., Mary C. and Khoda M. 
Our subject is now located on a farm in the central portion of Mantua Town- 
ship; he has been Trustee of this Township three terms, School Directoi', Asses- 
sor, etc., besides iilliug offices of minor importance. He is one of the leading 
citizens of this county; a prominent member of the Disciples Church. 

SAMUEL SANFORD, farmer, P. O. Mantua, was born March 7, 1844, in 
Mantua Township, this county; son of Edwin and Harriet (Wilmot) Sanford, 
natives of this county. The grandfather of our subject, Samiiel Sanford, with 
the Atwaters, came to this county at an early day and settled in Mantua Town- 
ship. Edwin Sanford was a farmer by occupation. He reared a family of 
two children: Lucia, now Mrs. Johnson, who has one child, Anna M. ; and 
Samuel. Our subject married October 4, 1870, Edna M., daughter of A, N. 
Farr, by whom he has two children: Hattie A. and Annie B. Mr. Sanford is 
now building himself a handsome brick residence of modern style. 

C. M. SEIBEL, cultivator of small fruits and music teacher, P. O. Mantua 
Station, was born iu Germany, October 5, 1823, son of Andrew Seibel. He 
immigrated to America in 1844, accompanied by one brother, and after a brief 
sojourn in New York, removed to Cleveland, Ohio. Here they founded a 
school of instrumental music, which has included upon its roster of pupils the 
names of the most celebrated leaders of bands in Cleveland. The brothers are 
now attending to their music classes in Cleveland, Ravenna, and other cities of 
this State. Wearying of the rounds of city life, some years ago, our subject 
became a resident of Mantua, and purchased a small estate, on which he has 
made many improvements, among which might be mentioned a fishery, stocked 
with the choicest varieties of the tinny tribe, principally black bass. The 
larger specimens are retained in an aqueduct, so to speak, supplied with spring 
water, while the smaller ones are developed in an addition. The runway leading 
to the fishery is shaded with grape vines, highly cultivated and productive, and 
here the Professor enjoys the fullest complement of pleasures peculiar to a Ger- 
man gentleman of taste and leisure. Mr. Seibel has been twice married, on first 
occasion, in 1851, to Maryann Johnson, by whom he had two childx'en: Lottie 
and Maria. This wife dying, he subsequently married, in 1861, Lepoldina 
Heitzman, who bore him two children: Lillian and Andrew. 

SYLVAN SKINNER, farmer, P. O. Mantua, was born February 16, 1845, 
in Mantua Township, this«ounty, son of William and Delight (Pinney) Skin- 
ner, natives of Massachusetts (Mrs. Skinner had been previously the widow of 
Mr. Wait, by whom she had two childi-en, one now living — Otis Wait, in 
Hiram). William Skinner, Sr., and wife came to this county in 1806, settling on 
the farm where their grandchildren now reside. William Skinner, Jr., was 
born September 9, 1804, a son of William Skinner, Sr., and by trade was a 
maker of scythes, snaths, rakes and wagons, but in later life turned his atten- 
tion entirely to farming. He had a family of three childi'en, two of whom are 
now living: Adelbert L. .and Sylvan. Our subject was married, Februaxy 25, 
1865, to Pastoria, daughter of John C. White Kirtland, by whom he has one 
son — William. The Skinner family was the twelfth to settle in Mantua Town- 
ship, this county, and the land on which our subject resides was entered by his 
grandfather eighty years ago, who also built the house, and this property at 
his death descended to his son (our 'subject's father) encumbered with a mort- 



MANTUA TOWNSHIP. 769 

gage of $1,800, which the latter cleared, and in the course of time, by indus- 
try and perseverance, he became a well-to-do man worth upward of $10,000. 
Our subject is a progressive man, highly esteemed by the community. He has 
filled the office of Constable for three years. 

WILLIAM A. SMITH, proprietor of saw-mill, tub and bucket manufact- 
urer and lumber dealer, Mantua, was born April 13, 1832, in Litchfield, Litch- 
field Co., Conn., son of Minus and Emma (Blakeman) Smith, who came to 
Kavenna Township, this county, in 1833, thence removed to the northeast 
part of Shalersville, where Mr. Smith operated a saw-mill for about twelve years. 
Our subject, the second in a family of five children, was married, September 
4, 1861, to Martha, daughter of Seth and Nancy (Perkins) Sanford, who were 
the parents of four children: Mary J., married to H. S. Granger (they reside 
in Phillips County, Kan.); Sarah, wife of S. L. Peck, in Elkader, Iowa; Mrs. 
Smith; and Delos C. , a soldier under Garfield, serving in Company A, Forty-sec- 
ond Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and who was wounded, from the efifects of which 
he died at forty years of age. The Sanfords are of English origin, and trace 
their genealogy back through ten generations. The grandfather of Mrs. Smith 
enlisted when sixteen years of age in the war of 1812, and at his death, when 
ninety-three years of age, he was buried with military honors befitting the last 
soldier of that struggle. Mrs. Smith is carrying on a millinery and fancy 
notion trade in one of the finest business houses in the village, in the Smith & 
Bowen Block, which she built in 1883. Our subject and wife have no children 
of their own, but have adopted a daughter named Clara. 

CHARLES M. TAYLOR, farmer, proprietor of saw-mill, and cheese-box 
manufacturer, Mantua, was born September 11, 1818, at Suffolk, Hartford Co., 
Conn. ; son of Hezron and Mary Ann (Mix) Taylor, who, in 1831, came to this 
county and settled in Mantua ToMmship, on the farm where our subject now 
resides. They here raised a family of five children: Charles M. ; Mary H., 
deceased in, infancy; Joseph M., married to Harriet Cobb (he died in 1879).; 
Antoinette, wife of H. Cobb; Andrew H, married first to Mary McFarland, 
subsequently to Almeda A. Curtis. Hezron Taylor served as a soldier in the war 
of 1812, and was a farmer by occupation. He brought his family here by way 
of Albany in wagons, and came across the lake during the prevaleneo of the 
equiijoxial gales. He purchased the "Blackburn tract" of Mr. Trimble, and 
here died in 1866, his wife having preceded him in April, 1863. Our subject 
was married in September, 1840, to Sabrina A., daughter of Alfred Day, by 
whom he had six children, five now living: Henry C, Laura M., Lusira V., 
Lillian E., Herman H. and Herbert T. (deceased 1878), all of whom save the 
last mentioned have been heads of families. His wife dying in 1852, Mr. 
Taylor was married. October, 1855, to Clara Parker, by whom he has eight 
children: William, Edward, Charles, Ezra, Frank, Minnie, Mattie and John. 
He carried on a farm at the old homestead, and for the past twelve years has 
been proprietor of a cheese-box factory and saw-mill located in the northern 
part of the township. He is au enterprising citizen, a member of the Meth- 
odist Church; a Republican in politics. 

ANDREW H. TAYLOR, hotel proprietor, Mantua Station, was born May 
1, 1834, in Mantua Township, this county; son of Hezi'on and Mary A. (Mix) 
Taylor, natives of Hartford County, Conn., who came to Ohio in 1828, and set- 
tled in the west part of Mantua Township, near what was known as "Cobb's 
Corners," where they began life in the woods. Of New England stock, they 
were earnest workers in the cause of civilization in the wilderness, and 
devoted their lives to the education and happiness of their children. Of the 
five children born to them, three now live: Charles M., Antoinette, wife oi 



770 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Henry Cobb, and Andrew H. Our subject has been twice married, the first 
time, January, 1863, to Mary P. McFarland, who died July 8. 1865. His sec- 
ond marriage, April, 1868, was with Almeda A, Curtis, by whom he had one 
child— Bertha M., at home. Mrs. Taylor died in March, 1875. Mr. Taylor 
was raised on his father's farm, but early in life began business on his own 
account, for the past thirteen years in Mantua, where four years ago he erected 
the hotel which he has since successfully conducted. 

LEWIS TURNEli, farmer, P. O. Mantua Station, was born, March 30, 
1816, in Wayne County, N. Y. ; son of Amasa and Polly (Thayer) Turner, 
natives of Connecticut and New York respectively, and who came to Geauga 
County, Ohio, in 1817, remaining until 1827, when they removed to this county, 
where they lived until their death. The father of our subject kept hotel for 
man}' years (during this tiine McCarson was hanged) but finally became a 
farmer. His family consisted of six sous and two daughters, four of the 
former still living: Norman in Geauga County; Preston in Mantua Township, 
this county; Henry in Freedom, this county, and Lewis. Our subject married 
Sarah Merriman, in 1836, by whom he had the following childi-en: Harry 
(deceased); Lewtou, married toAdell Farr; Lomira M. ; Sanford; Charles, mar- 
ried to Ella Nelson; Stanton, married to Martha Benninger; Egbert, married to 
Ida Clark; Emma (Mrs. Chalker), and Bell (Mrs. Van Allen). Mr. Turner 
occupies the old homestead, a large tract of land one and a half miles north 
of Mantua Station. He is a genial, hospitable gentleman. 

G. C. WAY, physician and surgeon, P. O. Mantua Station, was born June 
26, 1848, in Shalersville Township, Portage County, Ohio; son of Robert and 
Lucinda G. (Work) Way, who were the parents of eight children, of whom the 
following survive: J. H., residing on the old homestead in Shalersville; W. O. ; 
A. B. ; Celestia M. , wife of Dr. S. L. McCarthy, of Altoona, Penn., and Dora 
E., wife of H. W. Fields, also residing in Altoona, and G. C. Mr. and Mrs. 
Robert Way, formerly of Pennsylvania, came to Ohio in 1835, and settled in 
Shalersville, where they remained until the death of the former. May 10,1867; 
his widow now resides with G. C. Our subject was educated at Jefferson Col- 
lege, Penn., and at the college at Alliance, Ohio. He began the study of medi- 
cine under Dr. George M. Proctor, of Shalersville, in 1866, and afterward with 
Dr. Johnson, of Alliance, and his brother-in-law. Dr. McCarthy, of Altoona, 
and matriculated at Michigan University, Ann Arbor, whence he graduated at 
the Jefferson Medical College of Philadelphia in the spring of 1874:. He began 
the practice of medicine with Dr. S. L. McCarthy in 1873. After graduating 
he practiced alone at Allenville and Altoona, and in 1881 he came to Mantua. 
The Doctor has a large and successful practice and is considered the leading 
physician of Mantua Township. He was married. May 9, 1883, to Caroline, 
daughter of Chauncey and Percis (Parker) Winchel. Mr. Winchell was an 
early settler of Mantua Township, and a very successful man, owning at one 
time nearly 1,000 acres of land, which is now inherited by his" children. 

SYLVESTER Iv. WILCOX, physician and surgeon, Mantua Corners, was 
born August 4, 1824, in Chester, Hampden Co., Mass.; son of Ralph and Bet- 
sey (Noney) Wilcox, latter of whom was a sister of Capt. Noney, of the war 
of 1812. The father of our subject, Ralph Wilcox, a farmer, came to Ohio in 
an early day and settled at Mantua Corners, where he passed the remainder of 
his life. Hia children were Norman (deceased); Reuben G. , a blacksmith at 
Hiram Rapids; Eliza (deceased), and Sylvester K. Our subject was educated 
to the profession of medicine, at the Medical Department of Western Reserve 
College, Cleveland, Ohio, whence he graduated in 1846. and then settled in 
Mantua Township, Ohio; thence he removed to Hiram Township, but after ten 



NELSON TOWNSHIP. 771 

years' residence there, retumed to Mantua Township, where he has since 
remained. Dr. Wilcox has been twice married; the first time, September 10, 
1845, to Harriet M. Stodard, by whom he had two children: L. D. , and Har- 
riet, wife of DelosPeck, in California. His second marriage occurred in Mecca, 
Trumble Co., Ohio, in 1862, with Olive S. Whitney, by whom there is no issue. 
The Doctor is a grandson of a Revolutionary soldier, and is an accomplished 
physician, a valuable citizen. In politics he is a Democrat. 



NELSON TOWNSHIP. 



ZINA R. BANCROFT, farmer, P. O. Garrettsville, was born in Nelson 
Township, this county, March 11, 1838, son of Thompson Bancroft, a native 
of Connecticut, who was brought to this county in infancy, and here he 
attained his maturity, helping to cut down the forests, and following the occu- 
pation of a farmer. Thompson Bancroft was united in marriage with Lucy 
C. Atwater, also a native of Connecticut, who bore him five children: Sylves- 
ter, deceased; Edwin L., deceased; Zina R. ; Augusta P., and an infant, 
deceased. He died in 1877, and his widow in 1879. Our subject, who has 
always been a farmer, was married October 6, 1859, to Clara Reed, born Sep- 
tember 1, 1837, in Crawford County, Penn., daughter of Henry and Sarah 
(Moore) Reed, natives of Connecticut and early settlers of Mead Township, 
Crawford Co., Penn. Mr. and Mrs. Bancroft are the parents of three children: 
Lucy C, Henry T. and Eddie H. 

MILTON COLE, farmer, P. O. Garrettsville, was born in Nelson Town- 
ship, tbis county, February 23, 1836; son of Jedediah Cole (see sketch of J. 
Cole), a native of Vermont, who was twice married. In March, 3835, he was 
married (second occasion) to Parthena (Sanford) Hamlin, born in Harrington, 
Conn., April 10, 1810, who bore him five children: Milton; Francis, in Lorain 
County, Ohio; Mrs. Aurilla Thompson, in Garrettsville, Ohio; Mrs. Cordelia 
Bancroft, in Michigan, and Edwin S., born in 1848, and died in his seven- 
teenth year. Jedediah Cole is deceased; his widow still survives. Our sub- 
ject received a common school education, and has followed farming all his 
life, still living upon the old farm originally settled by John Noah, the 
eighth settler in Nelson Township. On April 22, 1863, our subject was mar- 
ried to Miss Jennie M. Doty, born in New York State April 22, 1840, daughter 
of Ebenezer and Rebecca (Pierce) Doty, natives of Massachusetts, both now 
deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Cole are the parents of one daughter — Lottie M., 
born March 5, 1864. Our subject is an active member of Portage Lodge, No. 
436, I. O. O. F. 

JOHN B. COLTON, farmer, P.O. Garrettsville, a native of Connecticut, 
was born November 27, 1811, son of Theron and Elizabeth (Clark) Colton, 
natives of Connecticut, who moved to this county in 1815, and who were the 
parents of eleven children, one deceased in infancy, the remainder attaining 
maturity, four of whom are now living, whose combined ages aggregate three 
hundred years. Theron Colton, born in Granby, Conn., established the first 
blacksmith shop in Nelson Township, this county, and conducted an extensive 
business for three townships. He died in 1851 at the age of seventy eight 
years, his widow surviving him about fourteen years. Our subject was raised 
on a farm, his education being limited to that obtainable in the log-school- 



772 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : 

bouse of that early day. He has always followed the occupation of a farmer. 
He was married in 1847 to Mary L. Tilden, a native of Hiram Township, this 
county, where she was born in 1829. They are the parents of three children: 
Geoi-ge H., a Professor in Hiram College; Emily N., wife of G. W. Newcomb, 
and Sheridan B. Mr. Colton has added several acres to the old homestead 
where his parents lived and died, aud which he now owns. Mr. Colton has 
served the people of his township in several offices of trust. He has never 
been a politician or office seeker, but has ever lived contented with the plain 
home life of a farmer. 

BURT F. COUCH, farmer, P. O. Garrettsville, was born in Nelson Town- 
ship, this county, August 22, 1850, son of Ferris and Antoinette (Johnson) 
Couch, natives of Lee, Berkshire Co., Mass., and Cornwall, Conn. They 
were the parents of five children, three of whom attained maturity: Sarah A. 
(wife of Edward Burk), Emily J. and Burt F. Ferris Couch settled here in 
1817, and became very prominent, serving as Sheriff of the county, having 
been elected in 1854, and in an early day as Captain of the militia. He died 
August 27, 1881, upon the same farm on which he ate his first meal upon his 
arrival in town July 25, 1817. His widow died at the same place July 6, 
1884. Our subject was married July 25, 1872, to Miss Ella C. McElwain, born 
in Garrettsville, this county, December 7, 1855. Bv this union there are two 
children: Myrtle A., born June 24, 1874, and Lela B., born July 10, 1876. 
Mr. Couch is an enterprising young man, who has always followed the occupa- 
tion of a farmer. He is now living on his father's old homestead; is a mem- 
ber of Portage Lodge, No. 456, L O. O. F. In politics he is a Republican. 

CYRENUS CRAWFORD, farmer, P. O. Nelson, was born in Genesee 
County, N. Y., August 5, 1818; son of Stephen and Rebecca (Carpenter) 
Crawford, natives of New York, and parents of eight children, all of whom 
attained maturity, and of whom our subject is the eldest. Mr. and Mrs. 
Stephen Crawford came to Ohio in 1819, residing at Southington for eight 
years, thence moved to Farmington for one year, and finally settled in Nelson 
Township. The father died in 1868; the mother was killed in 1844 by being 
thrown from a buggy. Our subject has resided in Nelson Township since his 
parents came here, and engaged in farming, in connection with which he has 
recently gone into the raising of a superior breed of stock. He was united in 
marriage, August, 1858, with Miss Mary Brown, a native of New I'^ork, and 
a daughter of Thomas Brown. 

BENJAMIN FOWLER, retired farmer, Garrettsville, was born July 25, 1807, 
in Northumberland County, Penn., and removed when nine years old to Lyco- 
ming County, same State, with his parents, James Fowler, born in Northum- 
berland County, Penn., and Ann (Craft) Fowler, born in England, and who 
came to America at the age of sixteen years. The father was a distiller dur- 
ing early manhood, and later a farmer. He died at the age of seventy -five 
years, of palsy. He and his wife, who died in 1824, were members of the 
Presbyterian Church. Their children were eight in number, five of whom are 
now jiving: Benjamin, Daniel, Deborah, Nancy and Kate. Our subject was 
educated in the log cabin schoolhouse, and during his short terms in the win- 
ters he progressed rapidly. It is a remarkable fact that he mastered every 
problem in what is now known as " Pike's Arithmetic " in twenty-one days and 
nights. At seventeen years of age he began labor on a vessel which plied on 
Baltimore Bay, and there remained five years. In 1829 he rented a large farm 
along the Susquehanna River, and five years later left there for Trumbull 
County, Ohio, where he settled among the wolves and other ferocious animals. 
Here he improved about 114 acres, besides clearing other farms. In 1853 he 



NELSON TOWNSHIP. 773 

moved to this county, and settled where he now resides. He owns 175 acres, 
known as the old " Spencer farm,'' for which he paid $8,000. Since locating 
here he has made a specialty of stock-raising and dairying; he also continued the 
cheese-making business, which he had commenced in Trumbull County, Ohio, 
in 1848, but this industry he withdrew from in 1881. While in Trumbull 
County there were added to his various other duties the operating of a saw- 
mill, and the first threshing machine ever used in that county. At one time 
he was interested in a banking business at Garrettsville, this county, which 
proved a loss to him. Our subject married, in 1829, Elizabeth, daughter of 
John and Abbie (McClow) Shaffer, natives, former of Pennsylvania, latter of 
New Jersey. To this union were born eleven children, eight of whom are 
now living: J. Wilson, married to Flora De Lon; Henry M. C. , married to 
Caroline Bristol, born October 5, 1833, daughter of Lot and Lucy (Towsley) 
Bristol, natives of Connecticut and early settlers of Portage County (her father 
died in 1866, leaving two children: Fred and Caroline); they have two chil- 
dren: Ransom and Virginia; Harriet, married, for her second husband, to 
Oscar Hoskins; Sarah J., married to Fred Bristol; Lorenda, married to Sam- 
uel Craig; Cornelius, married to Hannah Missner; John, married to Rosa Doty; 
Watson, married to George Collins. Mrs. Fowler died in 1874. She was a 
member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, to which our subject has been 
closely attached for over forty years. Mr. Fowler cast his first Presidential 
vote for Andrew Jackson, and has since adhered faithfully to the principles of 
the Democratic party. The Fowler family are descended from thi'ee brothers 
who emigrated from England at an early period, and soon after separated. One, 
Nathan, was married and lived in New York, and his son Benjamin was on 
board a vessel which remained out of sight of land for three years and six 
months. He was with George Washington during the Revolutionary strug- 
gle. His father was killed in the French and Indian war. Another of the 
three brothers, Elithan, married and resided in Connecticut; and the third 
brother, David, married a French woman and settled in Pennsylvania, and 
from him the race, of which our subject is a member, sprang. The Fowler fam- 
ily as a rule are long lived. Benjamin, the grandfather of our subject, died 
at the age of one hundred and six years. 

OSCAR D. FREEMAN, farmer, P. O. Nelson, was born in Fredonia, N. 
Y., January 20, 1836, son of Joseph and Phebean (Freeman) Freeman, 
natives of New Y''ork, and to whom six children were born, our subject being 
the third. Joseph Freeman was a molder by trade, but subsequently adopted 
the life of a farmer, and is now a resident of Michigan. His wife died in 
1843. Oscar D. Freeman was raised in Michigan, where he obtained a com- 
mon school education and began his career in life as a farmer. In 1862 he 
removed to this county, and the year following was married to Miss Lavinia 
Knowlton, a native of Nelson Township, this county. By this union there is 
oue son — Porter C. During the war of the Rebellion Mr. Freeman enlisted 
with the 100-days' men in Company I, One Hundred and Seventy-first Ohio 
National Guards, was wounded at the battle of Kelley's Bridge and dis- 
charged on account of disability. He has served one term each as Township 
Treasurer and Constable. 

COLUMBUS C. FULLER, farmer, P. O. Nelson, was born April 23, 1818, 
on the farm in Nelson Township, this county, which is still his home, and is 
a son of Jeremiah R. and Hannah B. (Bierce) Fuller, natives of Connecticut, 
who had a family of five children, two of whom are now living: Chauncey, in 
Iowa, and Columbus C. Jeremiah R. Fuller came to this county in 1817 and 
died in 1851; his widow died in February, 1882, aged ninety-two years. Our 



774 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

subject was married, in 1848, to Mary A. Bierce, born in Nelson Townsliip, 
this county, in 1830, and who has borne him the following children: Harry B., 
who was highly educated, and was a successful teacher, died at the age of 
twenty-seven years; William J.; Lucius B. , a graduate of Oberlin College 
and a theological student, died in his twenty-sixth year; Marcus B., twin 
brother of Lucius B. , who graduated at the same time and is now a mission- 
ary in India; Gerald M.; Columbus C, Jr., and George N. Mr. Fuller has 
always been a farmer, and for fifteen years has been an extensive breeder of 
Ayrshire cattle. He is a member of the Congregational Church; has held 
several of the township offices; in politics he is a Republican. 

AMOS F. HANNAH, hotel keeper, NelsoD, was born in Nelson Township, 
this county, January 3, 1836, the second in a family of four children born to 
John and Clarissa (Foot) Hannah, natives of Connecticut and Massachusetts, 
respectively. John Hannah came to Ohio in 1813, lost his wife in 1844, and 
subsequently married Susan Hannah, who now resides with her step-son; John 
Hannah died in 1872. Our subject was married, in 1861, to Maria L. Clark, 
a native of Nelson, who has borne him five children, only two of whom, Archie 
and Ruby, are living. Mr. Hannah followed the occupation of a farmer until 
the spring of 1877, when he purchased the " Cascade House," erected in 1868 
by H. L. Bancroft, at Nelson Ledges, one of the most romantic spots in 
northern Ohio, which has become a very popular summer resort, and under 
Mr. Hannah's able management the business of this hotel has steadily 
increased. 

GEORGE E. HEDGER, farmer, P. O. Garrettsville. was born in Trumbull 
County, Ohio, May 24, 1837; son of Calvin and Sally (Richards) Hedger, 
natives of Connecticut and Vermont respectively, and early settlers of Trum- 
bull County, both now deceased. They were the parents of seven children: 
Amanda, Alonzo, Joseph, Martha, Mary, John and George E. Our subject 
was brought up on a farm and has been engaged more or less extensively in 
raising and dealing in thoroughbred cattle. He came to this county in 1859, 
and on November 7, 1861, was married to Caroline Curtis, who was born June 
11, 1837, on the place which has always been her home, daughter of Julius 
Curtis, who was born in Glastonbury, Conn., December 25, 1797, and who at 
the age of eighteen removed to Ohio, locating in Geauga County, where he re- 
mained five years and then returned to Connecticut. Later Mr. Curtis once more 
became a resident of Ohio, and in 1822 married Rhoda McCall, who is still 
living, aged seventy-six, and who bore him four children: Catharine, Eben- 
ezer, Barsheba and Caroline. Mr. Curtis soon after his marriage came to this 
county, where he died March 6, 1883; he was a prominent stock-dealer 
and farmer. Mr. and Mrs. Hedger have two children: Walter J. and Susie 
A. Our subject has served nine years as Justice of the Peace, and has also 
been Trustee and Assessor of Nelson Township. 

JOHN S. HOBART, farmer, P. O. Parkman, Geauga County, was born in 
New Hampshire, November 25, 1806; son of Benjamin and Mary (Wheeler) 
Hobart, natives of Massachusetts. Our subject came to Ohio in 1814, and has 
always been a farmer. He was twice married, on the first occasion, in 1834, 
to Margaret Moore, who died October 29, 1856, the mother of nine children, 
as follows: Thomas M., Benjamin E., Mary E., Jefferson R., William W., 
Marsena, Freedom, Hannah and Marcellus. His second marriage occurred 
March 1, 1858, with Aurilla C. Alton, born at Warren, Ohio, December 16, 
1823, daughter of William and Nancy (Budd) Netterfield, natives of south- 
western Pennsylvania, and early settlers of Trumbull County, Ohio. Three 
children were born to this union: Addison, Allison and John S. Mr. Hobart 
has been a member of the Congregational Church at Nelson for forty years. 



NELSON TOWNSHIP. 775 

LUMAN C. HOFKINS, farmer, P. . O. Nelson, was born in Cornwall, 
Conn., May 8, 1820; son of Luman and Anna (Clark) Hopkins, natives of that 
State, who had a family of six children: Harriet (deceased), Catharine (de- 
ceased), Ann, Luman C, Palmer (deceased) and Charlotte. Luman Hopkins 
came in 1824 to the farm where Luman C. now lives and has always lived, 
when the latter was four years old. Oar subject received a common school 
education, and chose the occupation of a farmer, which he has always fol- 
lowed, and for several years has conducted a large dairy. He has been twice 
married, on the first occasion, in 1844, to Miss Janette L. Sackett, who died 
in 1847. His second marriage, in April, 1848, was with Eliza Stilson, born 
in Palmyra Township, this county, June 1(3, 1828. By this union there were 
six children: Philo, George, Ernest, Nettie, Herbert (deceased) and Arthur. 
Mr. Hopkins has held the office of Township Trustee several times, also that 
of Township Treasurer. He has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church for fourteen years. 

WILLIAM W. McCALL, farmer, P. O. Nelson, was born in Nelson Town- 
ship, this county, January 13, 1834, son of Joseph and Mary P. (Sherwood) 
McCall, natives of Connecticut, and parents of five children, who attained 
maturity. Joseph McCall was born in 1804, came to Ohio in 1820, and for 
fifty-three years resided on the homestead where he died June 26, 1884. His 
widow, who survives him, was born September 6, 1812, daughter of Joshua 
B. and Anna (Bonny) Sherwood, who brought her to Ohio in infancy. Mr. 
McCall was married October 21, 1856, to Miss Mary A. Knowlton, born in 
Nelson Township, this county, September 13, 1836. Mrs. McCall was the 
daughter of James and Isabel Knowlton. James Knowlton, a native of Bland- 
ford, Mass., came to Charlestown in this county in 1809, and to Nelson in 
1810. Isabel (Nicholson) Knowlton was a native of Canaan, N. Y. To Mr. 
and Mrs. McCall were born five children: Jonathan N. (Superintendent of 
Schools at Ithaca, Mich.), Ella, Almon W. (a gradup,te of Garrettsville High 
School, and was engaged as Principal of the Girard schools, to assume the 
duties of this position on Monday, September 8, 1884, but the evening previous 
was drowned while bathing), Rosa M. and Ernest J. In early life our subject 
taught school, but subsequently identified himself with agricultural pursuits, 
and has since continued this occiipation. He has been a member of the Meth- 
odist Episcopal Church about twenty-five years. 

THOMAS MERWIN, local minister, Nelson, was born in Onondaga 
County, N. Y., July 16, 1816, son of Jesse and Lydia (Ewers) Merwin, natives 
of New England, and who came to Ohio in 1822, settling in Nelson Township, 
this county, where the former was the first physician to practice. Our sub- 
ject received a common school education and began life as a farmer. In 1853 
he was ordained a minister of the Church of the United Brethren in Christ, in 
Stark County, Ohio, October 17, and appointed to preach at Nelson, McClin- 
tocksburg, Southington and Middlefield. He was obliged to retire, however, 
on account of his wife's precarious health. He was also called to the pulpit 
at Pierpont, Ohio, but declined, and at the following annual conference he 
withdrew from the itinerancy, and since then has held a local membership. 
He has since given his attention somewhat to his farming interests. Mr. Mer- 
win was twice married. His first wife was Lucy M. Messenger, a native of 
Windham Township, this county, who died November 17, 1854, aged thirty- 
four years and four months^-leaving two children to his care: Matthew A. and 
Wealtha Almina. His second wife was Mary A. Palm, born in Austintown, 
Mahoning Co., Ohio, by whom he has one son — John P. 

KETCHEL B. PAYNE, farmer, P. O. Parkman, Geauga County, was born 
in New York, August 18, 1812, son of Solomon J. and Lucretia (Bierce) Payne, 



776 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

natives of Connecticut, who came to Ohio in 1816 and located in this county 
and township. They were the parents of six children. Solomon J. Payne 
died at the age of forty-six years; his widow at the age of fifty -eight. 
Afforded but little opportunity to attend school, the education of our subject 
has been largely obtained in his intercourse with the world, and through 
business and social relations. He was married, April 18, 1844, to Mary Jane 
Chaflfee, born in Vermont, February 7, 1826. They have four children living: 
Robert K., Benjamin F., MelindaE., wife of Robert Everett, and Solomon. 
Our subject has always been a farmer, and his ax has helped cut down the 
forests and to prepare the way for the many pleasant homes that now adorn 
the county. He has tilled the offices of Treasurer and Constable; for many 
vears he has been a consistent member of the Congregational Church. 

BENJAMIN F. PAYNE, farmer, P. O. Nelson, was born May 20, 1851, 
in Nelson, son of Ketchel B. and Mary Jane (Chaffee) Payne, natives of New 
York and Vermont respectively. (See sketch of K. B. Payne.) Our subject 
availed himself of the advantages of a common school education, and has 
devoted his life to farming, in which he has been pronouncedly successful. 
He was married September 20, 1871, to Miss Belle Brown, born December 30, 
1854, in Parkman, daughter of James and Susan (Hannah) Brown. By this 
union there is one son — Algernon, born June 8, 1872. Mr. Payne purchased 
his present farm in 1872, and has a tine herd of Shorthorn cattle. During the 
spring he engages quite extensively in the manufacture of maple sugar, hav- 
ing an orchard of 800 maple trees. He is regarded as one of the promising 
young men of the county. He is now serving Nelson Township as Constable. 

EBENEZER T. PRENTICE, farmer, P. O. Nelson, was born in Onon'- 
daga County, N. Y., November 29, 1811, son of Salmon and Edna (Sweet) 
Prentice, also natives of the above county and State, and who were the parents 
of eight children, of whom Ebenezer T. is the sixth. Our subject was mar- 
ried in Chautauqua County, N. Y., June 15, 1836, to Sarah Vallance, born 
October 9, 1817, in Dutchess County, N. Y. By this union there are tive chil- 
dren: Samuel, Byron, Charles, Cyrus and Eri (latter deceased). Mr. Prentice has 
always followed agricultural pursuits, clearing in all three farms. He came 
to Nelson Township, this county, in 1849, and located the farm on which he 
now lives. He has served the people as Trustee, and for nearly twenty years 
has been a F. & A. M. 

DUANE E. SHERWOOD, farmer, P. O. Nelson, was born on the place 
where he now resides, November 16, 1854, son of Ebenezer B. and Joanna 
(McCall) Sherwood, who were the parents of three children: Duane, Laura 
(now Mrs. Hedden) and Carrie (now Mrs. Mattison). Ebenezer B. Sherwood 
was a native of Connecticut, and came to Nelson Township, this county, in 
1813. He was an energetic, enterprising man, and cleared a large tract of 
land. He died in 1882, aged seventy-two years. His widow still resides on 
the old homestead, at the advanced age of sixty-seven years. Our subject, who 
has been a farmer all his life, was raised on a farm and educated in the com- 
mon schools of the district and at Hiram College. 

FRANKLIN SMITH, retired farmer, P. O. Garrettsville, was born in Ben 
nington County, Vt., October 26, 1804. He was married to Alvira White, a 
native of Connecticut, who bore him two sons and two daughters: Harriet 
(deceased), Warren, Albert J. and Eleanor, wife of George Combs. Mr. 
Smith immigrated to Geauga County, Ohio, in .1818, and is one of the oldest 
pioneers now living of that county. In 1825 he removed to Michigan for 
four years, and then returned to (jeauga County, Ohio, purchased a large f arm^ 
upon which he resided for seventeen years, and then came to this county. His 



PALMYRA TOWNSHIP. 777 

wife died, in September, 1880, and be has disposed of bis farm and retired 
from tbe labors of an active life. He has been an energetic, enterprising man, 
and was ever considered one of the substantial, practical farmers of Nelson 
Township. At an early day Mr. Smith became a F. & A. M. 



PALMYRA TOWNSHIP. 



GUSTAVUS P. BACON, farmer, P. O. Palmyra, was born May 29, 1813, 
in Palmyra Township, this county, on the homestead farm where he now 
resides, son of William and Polly (Thurber) Bacon, natives of Vermont. Will- 
iam Bacon visited this county in 1800, and after securing his land, returned, 
as he had come, on foot. In 1802 he came back to Palmyra Township with 
his family, and was assisted by the Indians in raising a cabin, and here he 
passed the remainder of his life. Of the ten children born to this pioneer 
couple but four survive: William R., Gustavus P., Almon T. and Chauncy C. 
The subject of this sketch was married in Deerfield, October 9, 1836, to Chris- 
tena Woodward, a native of Pennsylvania. To this union have been born ten 
children, seven of whom are living: John W., married to Lizzie Burnett, who 
died leaving four children: John, Charles, Delia and Mary (his second mar- 
riage was with Mrs. Mary Hornesby); Emeline L. , wife of William G. Byers; 
Hiram G., married to Lizzie Craig (their children are Frank and Nellie); Coz- 
zens, married to Josephine Edsall (they reside in Throckmorton County, Tex., 
have two children: Blanche and Warren): Mary C. ; Martha; and Lodica residing 
on tbe homestead. Mr. Bacon is the oldest native-born resident of Palmyra 
Township, this county. 

ALVA BALDWIN, farmer, P. O. Palmyra, Portage Co., Ohio, was born 
in Warren, Litchfield Co., Conn., July 4, 1795, son of John T. and Catherine 
(McArtbur) Baldwin, natives of Milford, Conn., who came to this county by 
wagon in 1805, arriving at the farm on July 7. Tbeii's was tbe first wagon 
that crossed the county, there being but two or three families in the southern 
part of the township. John T. Baldwin took up eighty acres of land, and 
after paying for bis land had '$1 left. He and our subject participated 
in the war of 1812. They went out at Hull's surrender, with the Fourth 
Division of Ohio Militia under Gen. Wadsworth. Our subject had his father's 
team, and while at Cleveland they met Gen. Harrison, who employed John T. 
Baldwin to pick up all the provisions for tbe army be could find. They were 
out all winter. Soon after the close of that struggle they went to Detroit, 
and from thence, in 1815, to Toledo with a party of twelve men. The party 
consisted of Col. McArtbur; Maj. Mansfield, of Atwater; Horatio Day; Lewis 
Ely and Merrick Ely, of Deerfield; Capt. John T. Baldwin and Alva Bald- 
win, of Palmyra; Judge King, of Stowe, with some discharged soldiers from 
Detroit, all on foot, with each a United States knapsack on bis back, well 
stored with provisions and blankets. There was no settlement at Toledo at 
that time. John T. Baldwin took up land on Bean Creek, and through his 
landed possessions became wealthy. Three sons accompanied him from Pal- 
myra to Toledo. He subsequently built a vessel on the Cuyahoga. He died 
at the age of sixty-three years at Toledo, Ohio, where bis estimable wife bad 
also departed this life. The youngest son, Marcus, who is a resident of 
Toledo, and Alva, our subject, are tbe only survivors of their children. The 



778 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

latter returned to the homestead farm in Palmyra Township, this county, 
where he remained, and is now passing the declining years of his life 
surrounded by his children and grandchildren. Mr. Baldwin was mar- 
ried in Ravenna, in 1818, to Sally Andrus, daughter of Benjamin Andrus. 
To this union two children were born: Andrus T., and Lucinda, who died 
October 4, 1838, at the age of twelve years. Andrus T. was born on the 
homestead farm in 1820. He has been engaged in various pursuits, and for 
twelve years was in the hardware trade at Medina and Ravenna. In 1884 he 
disposed of his business and removed to the homestead to care for and live 
with his respected parent through the latter part of his existence. He was 
married November 5, 1839, in Palmyra, to Samantha Daniels, a native of 
Medway, Mass., born August 29, 1821. She died February 23, 1861, leaving 
one son — Alvah V., who was born July 2, 1840, was thoroughly educated for a 
physician and surgeon, and was a graduate of the old and new schools of 
Cleveland. He was a student of the lamented President Garfield, and was a 
young man of pronounced ability, and gained a strong hold on the hearts of 
all who knew him. He was married to Eliza Merwin, who bore him three 
children, all now living: Ida S., Gustave W. and Clayton R. His widow 
resides in Palmyra. Andrus T. was married the second time in 1873, the 
lady being Ella Olmstead, a native of Palmyra. By this union are two chil- 
dren, both now living: John B. and Minnie S. 

D. D. CARSON, a member of the firm of Carson & Diver, merchants, 
Palmyra, was born in Mahoning County, Ohio, July 23, 1843, a son of George 
and Catherine (Gross) Carson, natives of Pennsylvania, who reared a family 
of ten children, nine of whom are now living: Catherine J., Harriet, Uriah 
W., David D., Emily M., Elmer, William F., Clara and Ellen. His father, an 
early pioneer of Berlin, Mahoning Co., Ohio, where he and his estimable wife 
still reside, has always followed farming as an occupation. He has served as 
Justice of the Peace for upward of twenty-seven years and at present is 
Notary Public. The subject of this sketch was married in 1864 to Miss Sarah 
A. Buck, who died in Union, Mo., in 1880. He was married on second occa- 
sion to Sarah A., daughter of John Gross, of Berlin, Ohio. Mr. Carson in 
1864 enlisted in Company G, One Hundred and Fifty-fifth Ohio Volunteer 
Infantry, serving five months, and participated with his regiment in active serv- 
ice at Martinsbtirg, Va. Subsequently Mr. Carson removed to Franklin 
County, Mo., where for sixteen years he engaged in teaching school and 
fai-ming. After his return to Berlin he taught school for a time. In the 
spring of 1883 he formed a partnership with E. J. Shively in mercantile trade 
at Palmyra. In December of the same year Mr. Shively retired from the con- 
cern, and our subject carried it on alone until May, 1884, when G. R. Diver 
was admitted to the firm. The house carries about $5,000 in general stock and 
drugs, and has a lucrative trade. Mr. Carson served as Justice of the Peace 
while a resident of Missouri. He is a F. & A. M., and holds a membership in 
the K. of P. and I. O. O. F. 

SAMUEL A. CHURCH, farmer, P. O. Palmyra, was born on the home- 
stead farm in Palmyra Township, this county, February 16, 1854, and is a 
grandson of Samuel and Tryphena (Terrell), who settled in Palmyra Town- 
ship in 1833. His father, James M. Church, was born in Litchfield County, 
Conn., December 19, 1815; his mother, Phebe (Olmstead) Church, was also a 
native of Connecticut. They are among the oldest living pioneers of Pal- 
myra Township, parents of four children, all of whom are now living: Anna, 
wife of W. D. Edwards; "William S. ; Jane, wife of N. K. Goss, and Samuel 
A. The subject of this sketch, who occupies the homestead, was married in 



PALMYRA TOWNSHIP. 779 

1876 to Dassie, daughter of Alexander Scott, and a native of Palmyra Town- 
ship. One son — James Scott — has blessed this union. Mr. Church is an hon- 
ored member of the Masonic fraternity, and of the I. O. O. F. He is one of 
the leading farmers of the township. Politically he supports the Democratic 
platform. 

WILLIAM C. DAVIS, proprietor of restaurant and billiard room, Dia- 
mond, was born in Paris Township, this county, in August, 1844, son of John 
D. and Margaret (Jones) Davis, and grandson of William Davis, one of the 
earliest pioneers of Palmyra Township. His father moved from Paris Town- 
ship to Palmyra Township in 1847, settling on a farm, where he died in Feb- 
ruary, 1883, aged seventy-one years. The widow, who subsequently married 
William Edwards, now resides in Alliance. The subject of this sketch, one 
of eight children, was brought up on the farm, and served an apprenticeship 
of three years in Cleveland as a stone-cutter. He worked at his trade until he 
came to this place in the summer of 1880, and, purchasing a lot, built his pres- 
ent residence and billiard room. This was the second building erected in the 
place, and Mr. Davis has carried on a large and successful business. He was 
married .'it Cleveland, Ohio, in May, 1872, to Mary, daughter of Silas Betts, 
of Canfield. Three children have been born to bless this union: Roscoe, 
Daisy and Gracie, latter of whom died in 1881, aged twenty-three days. Mr. 
Davis is a man of influence in the community, highly respected by all who 
know him. 

GEORGE R. DIVER, a member of the firm of Carson & Diver, Palmyra, 
was born in Deerfield Townshii^, this county, September 12, 1865. His father, 
Orison, was also a native of Deerfield Township, born August 20, 1829, the 
youngest son of John and Christena (Hartzell) Diver. At the death of his 
father, Orison Diver accepted his responsibilities, became proprietor of the 
" Diver House," and attended to the transportation of mails between Cleveland 
and Pittsburgh. He was twice married, first to Samantha Mowen, who died 
one year after marriage, leaving one child named Manty, who died at the age 
of five years and seven months. His second marriage was with Sarah Gross, by 
whom he had one child — George R., our subject. He was a man of sound 
moral worth, widely and favorably known. He died September 21, 1877, and 
his widow is now the wife of D. D. Carson. Our subject received school advan- 
tages, and, possessing business ability, engaged in the livery business at Deer- 
field, this county. This he subsequently disposed of and in May, 1884, formed 
the present copartnership. The firm carry a general stock of goods, and enjoy 
a lucrative trade. 

E. M. EVANS, Postmaster, Palmyra, is a native of Whales, where he was 
born in 1837. He emigrated to the United States in July, 1866, and came to 
Chicago, and on his recovering from a three months' sickness he left for Mil- 
waukee, where he worked at his trade as cabinet-maker until the spring of 
1868. He then removed to Arena, Iowa Co., Wis., where he conducted a fur- 
niture store. In 1869 he was licensed to preach by the Welsh Baptist Church 
of Ridgeway, Iowa Co., Wis., where he held membership. In the fall of 1871 
he was called to supply the Welsh Baptist Church in the settlement near Osh- 
kosh. Wis. In the spring of 1882 he came to Chicago and held a position in 
the retail department of A. H. Andrews &Co. In the fall of 1882 the Welsh 
Baptist Chui'ch of Frostburg, Md. , extended him a call, and he was ordained 
to the ministry by said church in December, 1883. W^hile in Frostburg he 
published a volume of his compositions in the Welsh language, including 
prose and poetry, which volume had an extensive sale, and has been used b}'^ 
the Welsh Sabbath-schools of the United States for recitations in their anni- 



780 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : 

versaries and exhibitions. For the sake of arranging his business afifairs in the 
West, Mr. Evans resigned his charge of the church in Frostburg, and when he was 
about to depart from his people they presented him with a beautiful gold watch 
valued at $140. After his visit to Wisconsin he returned to Johnstown, Penn , 
where he had accepted a call from the Welsh Baptist Church. The church 
being crippled by a strike of seven months, and the panic of 1873 and 1874, Mr. 
Evans concluded to accept the call of the Baptist Church of Paris, Portage 
Co., Ohio. He came to Paris in the fall of 1875, and while there he was 
invited to Palmyra by the Baptist friends there to reorganize the church and 
to repair an old church building that had been abandoned for many years. He 
soon found the two charges and preaching once in Palmyra and twice in Paris 
every Sabbath too much of a task, so he concluded to I'elinquish his charge of 
the church in Paris, and in 1877 he opened a drug store in Palmyra and in the 
eame year he was appointed Postmaster at Palmyra, which position he has 
acceptably filled since that time. He was without means when he came to this 
country, but by close economy, integrity and perseverance has accumulated a 
good home and substantial business. Mr. Evans was married in 1879 to Miss 
Elizabeth V. Evans, a native of Palmyra, Ohio. Their living children are 
John V. and Alfred D. Mr. Evans devotes all his spare time to his minis- 
terial duties. 

THOMAS EVANS, proprietor of saloon and restaurant, came to Palmyra, 
this county, in June, 1879, and was engaged in the mines about one year, 
when he struck a coal shaft and opened a bank which he sold to a profit. Sub- 
sequently he opened a saloon, in which business he has since been actively 
engaged. He erected his present structure in 1882, where he carries a lai'ge 
stock of liquors, wines, cigars, etc., and has a pool table in connection with 
his place. He has been successful in this business. Mr. Evans is a native of 
Wales, where he was born in 1852, and is a son of George and Ellen Evans. 
He was married in his native land in 1878, to Miss Eliza Griffith, by whom 
he has thi-ee children: Arthur, David G. and Mary Ellen. He is a member of 
the K. of P. He numbers among the active business men of this place. 

H. H. GILLINGHAM, Superintendent Hutson Coal Company, Diamond, 
was born in Deerfield Township, this county, November 21, 1856, and is a son 
of John W. and Mary A. Gillingham, the former a native of Maryland, the 
latter of Mahoning County, Ohio. They were the parents of six children, all 
of whom are now living, viz.: Elizabeth, wife of F. J. Powell; Samuel O.; 
Reuben; Hiram H. ; Delia A. and Charles E. The family settled in Deerfield 
Township, this county, in 1854, where they have since made their home. The 
subject of this sketch was married in Deerfield Township in 1880, to Miss May 
O. Vaughan, a native of Robinson, 111. One son — AVillie D. — has been born 
to this union. Mr. Gillingham and Mr. Hutson sunk the shaft for the coal 
bank in August, 1883, since which time Mr. Gillingham has assumed the 
superintendency, and enjoys an interest in the concern. He is a F. & A. M. 
As a citizen he is highly esteemed. 

WILLIAM JENKINS, M. D., Diamond, was born in Treforest, Wales, in 
1852, a son of Thomas and Ann (Jones) Jenkins. His father, who was a clergman, 
came to the United States in 1863, and after locating at various places he set- 
tled in Waterville, N. Y. , where he presides in the pulpit of the Congregational 
Church. The subject of this sketch was ma)ried in Delaware County, in 1875, 
to Mary E. Thomas, by whom he has the following children now living: Mary 
A. and Thomas S. Mr. Jenkins received his collegiate education in the Uni- 
versity at Delaware, where he graduated in the class of 1876. He attended 
two courses of lectures at the Howard University of Boston, Mass., and grad- 



PALMYRA TOWNSHIP. 781 

uated at the Columbus Medical College in 1881. His brother, Dr. Jenkins, 
of Plain City, Madison Co., Ohio, was his preceptor, from whom he received 
all the advantages for his studies. He subsequently became assistant to Dr. 
Hamilton, in the college at Columbus, with whom he was connected until he 
came to this place in May, 1881. Dr. Jenkins has built up a rapid and increas- 
ing practice, and is well established in the hearts of the people and all who 
know him. He is a consistent member of the Congregational Church; an hon- 
ored member of the Masonic fraternity. 

O. B. MASON, merchant. Diamond, was born in Marlborough, Stark Co., 
Ohio, March 14, 1838, son of Otis and Mary Mason, both deceased. Mr. Mason 
is the founder of Diamond, being the first business man to locate here in 1880, 
and is deserving of great credit for his labors in building up and improving 
the place. He erected the first edifice here, now used as a depot and restau- 
rant, and opened a general stock of goods. In December, 1881, he erected his 
present structure, where he has since continued doing a successful trade; has 
also for years been engaged in the lumber business, and beginning life as he 
did, empty-handed, he is worthy of a place in the pages of history. He was 
appointed Postmaster in 1881, a position he has filled acceptably to all. Mr. 
Mason is an ardent supporter of the Republican party. He holds the esteem 
and friendship of all classes who have learned to appreciate his moral worth. 
Our subject was married in Marlborough, Ohio, in 1863, to Mary A. , daughter 
of Samuel Campbell, of Atwater Township, Ohio, by whom he has two living 
children: Frank, born in June, 1871, and Dawn, born August 21, 1881. 

NOBLE MERWIN, farmer, P. O. Diamond, was born in Palmyra Town- 
ship, this county. May 22, 1853, son of Nathaniel R. and Jane (Hitchcock) 
Merwin, natives of Connecticut. The parents and grandfather, David Merwin, 
settled on the farm in 1814, purchasing one section of land, a portion of which 
they lived to clear, and here they passed honored and useful lives. Nathan- 
iel R. Merwin was twice married. By his first wife, nee Mary A. Stilson, two 
sons were born: George and David. Of the children born to his second mar- 
riage four are living: Eliza (wife of L. Thomas), Lucy (wife of R. Whittle- 
sey), Charles A. and Noble. The subject of this sketch was married in Pal- 
myra Township, in 1873, to Helen Brainerd, of Boardman, Mahoning County. 
Flora M. and Noble H. are the living issue of this union. Mr. Merwin resides 
on a portion of the homestead farm, consisting of 150 acres. The family is 
an outgrowth of pioneer stock, and bears the respected and honored characters 
of worthy and esteemed parents. 

JACOB SCOTT, farmer, P. O. Diamond, one of the oldest native residents 
of Palmyra Township, was born on the homestead farm in 1831, and is a son 
of Alexander and Christian (Bean) Scott. His father was a native of Ireland 
and a son of Robert Scott, who settled in Mifflin County, Penn. , in 1800, where 
he lived to the close of his life. Alex. Scott is the oldest living pioneer of 
Palmyra Township, having passed his ninety-first birthday. His estimable 
wife died in September, 1872, the mother of twelve children, eight of whom 
are now living: John, Nancy, Mary, Alexander, Robert, Jacob, Roswell and 
Margaret. The subject of this sketch was first married to Miss Sarah J. 
McElvey, who died, leaving one child — Sarah J. — wife of A. V. Lewis. He 
was married on second occasion, in 1865, to Miss Mary A., daughter of Will- 
iam Stewart (deceased), who was born in County Down, Ireland, in Novem- 
ber, 1802, immigrated to this country and settled in Palmyra Township, 
in 1832. In 1837 he married Rebecca Gilbert, and soon after settled on the 
farm where he and his respected wife passed the remainder of life's journey, 
and which is still occupied by his children. Mr. Scott's farming lands in Pal- 



782 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

myra Township and in Milton cover 147 acres. In the spring of 1884 he 
erected his present commodious residence at Diamond. He is a member of the 
Grange. 

EDWARD SEEDHOUSE, proprietor of saloon and restaurant, Palmyra, 
is a native of England, where he was born in 1833. In 1866 he came to 
America, and was engaged in the coal mines of Pennsylvania. While there 
he met and married Sarah Lemm, who died in Pennsylvania. His second 
marriage was with Nora Anna Stone, by whom he has two sons and two daugh- 
ters: Joseph, Harriet (wife of William Bailey), William, and Mary A. (wife of 
Richard Davis). Mr. Seedhouse came to Palmyra in 1882, and opened his 
present place, where he conducts a prosperous business. As a citizen he sus- 
tains a good reputation. 

W. G. SMITH, M. D., Palmyra, was born in New Wilmington, Lawrence 
Co., Penn., July 11, 1854, and is the eldest son of Samuel and Sarah (;6anks) 
Smith, who were the parents of eight children, all of whom are now living: 
W^ G., Robert, Ella S., Maggie E., Eddie, Edith, Ida and Samuel A. His 
father was a farmer and died at New Wilmington, Penn., in 1875. The sub- 
ject of this sketch received his primary education in his native place, and there 
served as clerk in the postoffice, and also secured five years' experience in the 
druo" business. During a greater portion of this time he studied medicine 
under the direction of Dr. A. C. Pettit. He was sober, industrious and fru- 
gal, securing means through his own exertions with which to educate himself. 
In September, 1875, he entered Miami Medical College, graduating in the 
class of 1877. In May of the same year he located in Palmyra. Though a 
stranger without means and in competition with old practitioners, from the 
first success attended his efforts, and his calls have been continuously increas- 
ing, until now he controls the largest practice in and about the township. He 
is a member of Portage County, Ohio State Medical Societies. Is connected 
with the Methodist Episcopal Church. The Doctor was married, October 26, 
1879, to Mary A. Force, born in Palmyra, this county, March 12, 1862, daugh- 
ter of David and Abigail P. Force, latter of whom died of heart and lung 
trouble at her residence in Palmyra, February 24, 1885. One child — Willie — 
is the living issue of this union. 



PARIS TOWNSHIP. 



ELIJAH HAWLEY, farmer, P. O. Newton Falls, Trumbull Co., Ohio 
is the oldest living resident of Paris Township, this county, and was born near 
his present residence October 11, 1815; son of Chauncy and Mercy (Selby) 
Hawley. natives of Massachusetts, the former born March 24, 1780, the latter 
March 24, 1786. Chauncy Hawley was reared and educated in his native State, 
and there married May 27, 1808. He was a hatter by trade, at which he 
worked in connection with farming. In 1815 he with his family came to Paris 
Township, this county, where he resided till his death, which occurred June 17, 
1846. His widow died June 18, 1875. Of their six children the following 
survive: Elijah; Eliza, widow of Joseph Brown; and Urania, wife of M. M. 
Seymour. Elijah Hawley left home when seventeen years of age and began 
working at the trade of cabinet-making, but gave it up after three months, 
and served an apprenticeship at carpentering, at which he worked many years. 



RANDOLPH TOWNSHIP. 783 

In 1842 he married Jane, daughter of Thomas and Anna (Sefton) Stewart, by 
whom he had six children; five now living: Henry. Miles, Charles, William 
and George. Our subject at his marriage had but little capital, and his first 
purchase of land was twelve acres, which he paid for by building a house for 
Stephen Bingham. The result of his industry is 380 acres of well-improved 
land. Mr. Hawley was successful in architecture and bridge building, and was 
the author of a design for a substantial wooden bridge. He has held several 
township offices; was lirst Assessor of Paris Township. In politics he is a 
Democrat. 

JOHN" LEONARD (deceased) was born in Mahoning County, Ohio. March 
8, 1815; son of George and Margaret (Hoftman) Leonard,/ natives of Pennsyl- 
vania and Virginia respectively. George Leonard, who was reared, educated 
and married in Washington County, Penn., was a farmer and also a carpenter 
and joiner. He was a soldier in the war of 1812. On coming to Ohio he first 
settled in Mahoning County, as did his parents. He then moved to Paris 
Township, this county, in 1832, and here died in the fall of 1843, aged fifty- 
five years. His widow died in Michigan in 18(30, aged seventy-four years. 
Eight of their twelve children survive: Nancy, Henry, Catherine, Moses, 
Aaron, Joshua, Sarah and Hannah. Of these, Joshua and Aaron served 
through the late war of the Rebellion. John Leonard, the subject of this 
sketch, was married. September 1, 1835, to Fanny, daughter of James and 
Susan (Shaflfer) Patterson, natives of eastern Pennsylvania and early settlers 
of Trumbull County, Ohio. To this union was born one child — Lura L., who 
died in 1871, aged twenty years. Mi". Leonard died March 1(3, 1885, of heart 
disease. He was a consistent member of the Congregational Church at New- 
ton Falls. He followed farming, and at his death was owner of 241 acres of 
good land. He filled several of the township offices of trust. 



RANDOLPH TOWNSHIP. 



ROBERT ALEXANDER, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Pennsyl- 
vania November 22, 1807; son of James and Elizabeth Alexander, natives of 
Pennsylvania and Ireland respectively, the latter of whom emigrated to 
America when nine years of age. They were married in Pennsylvania, and 
there lived and died. Our subject came to Ohio in 1834, and married Nancy 
Merriman December 22, 1836. She was born in Randolph Township, this 
county, July 5, 1817, daughter of Isaac and Esther Merriman, natives of 
Connecticut, and who located in this county, being among the first settlers, 
whei-e they remained permanently. Mrs. Merriman died in 1834, and Mr. 
Merriman subsequently married Harriet Bush, a native of New York State, 
and who, on the death of her husband in 1841, moved to Pennsylvania, where 
she now resides. Mr. and Mrs. Alexander are the parents of thirteen chil- 
dren, eight of whom survive: Esther, Elizabeth, Lavina, Eliza, Martha, 
Alice, Clara and Edger. The deceased are Sarah, Charles, Joseph, William 
and an infant. Our subject is a carpenter and joiner by trade, but of late 
years has been engaged in fai-ming. He owns fifty-six acres of land where he 
and his family reside. 

D. C. ALLEN, brick mason, Randolph, was born in Randolph Township, 
this county. May 14, 1842; son of Ben Ammi and Minerva Allen, the former 



784 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

a native of New York State, the latter of Connecticut, but who removed to this 
county in 1815, where they located and remained until the father's death in 
1880; the mother is still living. Our subject is a brick mason by trade, and 
has thus been engaged through life. July 3, 1867, he was married to Mattie 
Anderson, born May 13, 1845, in Randolph Township, this county, daughter 
of Caldwell and Rachel Anderson, both deceased, the former November 
14, 1883, the latter May 16, 1883. Mr. and Mrs. Allen have live chil- 
dren, of whom one only survives — Viola M. , born October 29, 1871. The 
deceased are Myrtle R., twin infants, and Gertrude D. Mr. and Mrs. Allen 
are members of Ihe Methodist Church. They own forty -five acres of land in 
Randolph Township, this county, and a beautiful home where the family 
resides. During the late war of the Rebellion our subject enlisted in Battery 
A, First Ohio Light Artillery, and served his country seventeen months. 

HIRAM AUSTIN, retired farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Oneida 
County, N. Y., February 2, 1818; son of Cyrenius and Clarissa (Stanly) Aus- 
tin, natives of Connecticu.t, whence they moved to New York, thence to Por- 
tage County, Ohio, February 21, 1821, and here remained until their death. 
The mother died June 17, 1840, the father who had been a farmer all his life, 
July 13, 1852. On June 1, 1841, our subject was married to Elizaette A. 
Sears, born in Randolph Township, this county, February 21, 1820, daughter- 
of Elias and Ruth (Culter) Sears, both deceased, and to this union have been 
born four children, two now living: Duane S. and Montgomery O. ; also one 
grand-daughter, Cora E. Hatcher, living with her grandparents. The 
deceased are Emma E., died April 18, 1864, and Ann Eliza C, died February 
7, 1875. Mr. and Mrs. Austin are members of the Methodist Church, in which 
connection he has held the offices of Class-leader, Steward and Trustee. He 
has tilled the office of Trustee in his town several times. He was elected 
President of the Building Board of the High School building in Randolph. 
He owns land in the village of Randolph on which he and his family reside, 
and projjerty in different parts of the county. He acquired a common school 
education and taught early in life. 

GEORGE AUSTIN, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Suffield Town- 
ship, this county, August 10, 1826; son of Anthony and Mariana Austin, natives 
of Connecticut, who immigrated to Ohio about 1809, and who remained in this 
county until 1853, in which year they moved to Indiana, remaining there until 
1865 and then returning to Randolph Township, this county, where they died, 
the mother in 1869, the father in 1870. Our subject was united in marriage, 
March 9, 1860, with Sarah Nash, born in Indiana, June 24, 1836, daughter of 
Calvin and Emily Nash, natives of Ohio, and who moved to Indiana and there 
remained until their death, in 1853 and 1841 respectively. To Mr. and Mrs. 
Austin have been born five children: Lorenzo G., Theresa E., Cora B., Emmet 
D. and Eliza E. Mr. Austin, who has been engaged in farming all his life, 
owns seventy-seven and a half aci-es of land where he and his family reside. 
Mrs. Austin and Lorenzo G. and Theresa E. are members of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church. 

AARON AUSTIN, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Randolph Town- 
ship, this county, February 22, 1829, the son of Bissell and Artemesia Austin, 
natives of New York. Bissell Austin was in the war of 1812, and immedi- 
ately after that struggle he removed to and settled in this county. Here he 
and his wife died, aged fifty-five and eighty years respectively. Our subject 
was united in marriage, November 9, 1867, with Sarah Pendleton, born in 
Brimfield Township, this county, December 25, 1840, daughter of Hubbard 
and Betsey Pendleton, natives of Connecticut and Ohio respectively, and who 



RANDOLPH TOWNSHIP. 785 

settled in this county in a very early day, and here remained until their death, 
the father dying in 1857. the mother in 1844 Our subject, who has been 
engaged in farming all his life, has bought and sold considerable property and 
now owns eighteen acres improved land where he and his family reside. He 
has filled the office of Township Trustee with credit to himself and to the sat- 
isfaction of his constituents. 

ALYIN BANCROFT, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Randolph 
Township, this county, May 19, 1832; son of Aralziamon and Phoebe Bancroft, 
natives of Granville, Mass., who came to Portage County, Ohio, remaining 
until 1850, at which time they moved to Marlboro, Stark Co., Ohio, where 
they settled and died, the father in 1872, the mother in 1881. Our 
subject, was united in marriage, September 28, 1861, with Sarah A. Don- 
nell, born in Randolph Township, this county, January 16, 1844, daughter of 
A. P. Donnell. Mr. and Mrs. Bancroft are the parents of one child —Jennie 
L., wife of Henry Brockett. Our subject when twelve years of age started in 
life for himself with nothing. He traveled all over the West engaging in 
miscellaneous trade until 1860, when he became associated with his uncle in 
mercantile business. This he continued for five years when he closed out and 
engaged in other enterprises for several years, after which he r<^sumed mercan- 
tile ventures at Marlboro with I. S. France, with whom he remained until 
1878; then he opened a store in Randolph, this county, with S. B. Trescott, 
and with him remained until 1881, then bought him out, and sold an interest 
to Albert Stanbaugh, with whom he is now associated under the firm name of 
Bancroft & Stanbaugh Our subject owns about 200 acres of real estate, forty 
of which, where he and his family reside, are in Portage County, the remain- 
der being in Iowa. 

W. BASSETT, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Connecticut, Jan- 
uary 14, 1830, son of Ezra L. and Susan Bassett, natives of Connecticut, who 
moved to this county about 1833, and remained here until the death of former 
in 1866; the latter is now nearly ninety-six years of age. Our subject was 
married December 4, 1860, to Celinda Winchell, born February 19, 1838, in 
Randolph, daughter of David and Eunice Winchell, natives of Connecticut, 
who came to this county in a very early day and remained until their death. 
To Mr. and Mrs. Bassett have been born three children, one of whom is now 
living — Emmett, born May 22, 1877. The deceased are Wilbur, born in 1868, 
drowned June 16, 1870, and Rosie, born December 22, 1872, died September 
4, 1873. Mr. and Mrs. Bassett are members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. They own thirty-three acres of improved land, on which they 
reside with their family. 

ORLANDO BENTLEY, retired farmer and merchant, Randolph, was 
born in Berkshire County, Mass., March 9, 1824; son of Caleb and Anna 
Bentley, the former a native of Massachusetts and a farmer, the latter a native 
of New York. Thev were married in Massachusetts and moved to New York, 
where they remained several years, thence went to Ohio, settling in Cuyahoga 
County, where they remained until their death. Caleb Bentley died August 19, 
1835, his widow surviving him until June 27, 1865. On May 7, 1850, our sub- 
ject was married to Caroline D. Sears, born in Randolph Township, this county, 
June 26, 1828, daughter of Elias and Ruth Sears. Mr. Sears was a native of 
Middletown, Conn., and, with his wife, came to Ohio, whei'e they remained till 
their death. Mr. Sears died March 4, 1840; Mrs. Sears in 1838. Mr. and 
Mrs. Bentley have been blessed with one child— Charles G., born January 1, 
1867, residing at home with his parents. Our subject engaged in carriage- 
making vintil he was twenty-foiir years of age, then followed farming for a 



786 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

few years, and finally went into mercantile business, in which he has been 
engaged most of the time since. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. Subor- 
dinate Lodge, No. 65, of Ravenna; has tilled the office of Trustee of Randolph for 
five years at one time, and also at different other times. He owns 120 acres of 
land and a fine residence in which he and family reside, also town lots. He 
is living a retired life on his farm. 

W. H. BETTES, farmer. P. O. Randolph, was born in Summit County, 
Ohio, July 10, 1824, son of Silas and Fannie (Ryder) Bettes. Silas Bottes 
was born in Massachusetts July 16, 1791, and immigrated to Ohio, where he 
remained until his death, December 31, 1832. His widow then married, in 
1834, Fx'ederick Dye, who died in 1855. She next raari'ied S. B. Spellman 
in 1866, and he, also, died, leaving her a widow for the third time. Our sub- 
ject was married, June 25, 1856, to Lodema Brockett, born in Randolph Town- 
ship, this county, December 13, 1829, daughter of Albert and Betsey Brock- 
ett, former a native of Connecticut, latter a native of England, Mrs. Brock- 
ett died in Portage County,Ohio, August 5, 1843, and Mr. Brockett then mar- 
ried, October 12, 1844, Fannie Ward, who lived only a few days; afterward, 
in March, 1846, he married Frances Hanson, who is still living. He died 
February 6, 1878, in Portage County, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Bettes are parents 
of four children: Charlie E., born October 23, 1857; Carrie L., born October 
2, 1859; Viola L., born October 21, 1866, and Mae A., born October 5. 1868. 
Mr. Bettes, wife and three eldest children are members of the Disciples Church. 
Our subject taught school during the early part of his life, his wife being a 
teacher also. Since then he has engaged in farming. He was in the late war 
of the Rebellion. Commissioned as First Lieutenant, May 11, 1861, in an 
independent company of militia, known as the Randolph Guards; enlisted in 
September, 1861, as a private in the Sixth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry; commis- 
sioned as Second Lieutenant in November, and promoted to First Lieutenant 
in December; resigned commission in April, 1863; was commissioned as 
Major, August 23, 1863, in the Third Regiment of Militia in Portage County; 
re-enlisted in the United States service in December, 1864, and was commissioned 
as First Lieutenant in Company H, One Hundred and Eighty- fourth Regiment 
Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served until the close of the war. Mr. Bettes was 
commissioned Justice of the Peace April 25, 1859; re elected January 22, 1866, 
and again October, 1882. He was Democratic candidate for Representative in 
1875, but was defeated; was renominated in 1877, and again defeated by a 
majority of 250 votes, the rest of the ticket being defeated by 500 and over. 
In 1879 he was nominated for Probate Judge, and defeated by a small major- 
ity. Our subject owns eleven acres of splendid land in this township, where 
he and his family reside. 

FREDERICK BILES, farmer, P. O. Marlborough, Stark Co., Ohio, was 
born in Germany, September IS, 1820, a son of Frederick and Dora Biles, 
who first immigrated to Columbiana County, Ohio; afterward moved to Stark 
County, where they remained until the fathers death in 1842. The mother 
subsequently moved to Seneca County, Ohio, where she died in 1872. Our sub- 
ject was married, October 8, 1848, to Elizabeth Frederick, born in Columbiana 
County, Ohio, January 10, 1828, daughter of David and Charlotte Frederick, 
who moved to Stark County, where the latter died in 1848, the former August 
20, 1883. To this union have been born eleven children, nine of whom sur- 
vive: David, Jacob, Samantha, Catharine, Eldora, William N., Ada, Delbert 
and Ona M. Mary and Rebecca J. are deceased. Mr. Biles owns sixty- 
six acres of first-class land, where he and his family live. He settled in the 
county in 1860; has met with good success, and is now one of the enterpris- 
ing farmers of Portage County. 



RANDOLPH TOWNSHIP. 787 

LEWIS M. BLOOMFIELD, farmer and stock -raiser, P. O. Marlborough, 
Stark Co., Ohio, was born in Bloomfield Townsh'ip, Crawford Co., Penn., 
December 10, 1815, son of Lewis and Susan Bloomfield, former a native of 
New Jersey, latter of Fayette County, Penn. They settled in Stark County, 
Ohio, in 1830, and there remained until their death. Our subject was 
united in marriage, June 7, 1838, with Lydia Ingledue, who was born in 
Columbiana County, Ohio, in 1813. To this union were born five children: 
Alpheus S., Celestine, Thomas M., Susan G. and Ascenath. The mother of 
these childi-en died December 8, 1876. She was one of the true and noble 
women of her day, and an exemplary mother. Her death was sadly regretted 
by a large circle of friends. Our subject married, March 17, 1882, Mrs. Hen- 
rietta Hotchkiss, of Meadville, Penn., who died January 1, 1883, after which 
he married, June 4, 1884, for his third wife, Rachel A. Beans. Our subject 
has been engaged in farming, stock-raising and dealing, and owns about 240 
acres of improved land. He has given each one of his children 11,000, either 
in land or money. Mr. Bloomfield has filled the office of Township Trustee 
about seven years. He is a member of the School Board. 

JOSEPH C. BRAINERD, retired farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in 
Martinsburg, Lewis Co., N. Y., September 25, 1819; son of Joseph and Nancy 
(Post) Brainerd, natives of Connecticut, former of whom died in New York; 
latter came to this county. The widow was married to Deacon Jotham Mitchell. 
She died in this county, he in New York. Our HM)ject was married Octo- 
ber 25, 1840, to Lovinna Merriman, boi'n December 29, 1820, died December 
30, 1843. After her decease Mr. Brainerd married, July 23, 1844, Elizabeth 
Clark, born June 2, 1822, in Geauga County, Ohio, daughter of Billings and 
Caroline Clark (deceased). Our subject engaged in saddle and harness mak- 
ing, afterward in stock-dealing and farming. During the war he and his 
brother dealt in horses for the Government, since when he has retired. Mr. 
and Mrs. Brainerd are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He 
served as Deputy Sheriff of the county for several terms, also as Township 
Clerk, and held a Notary's commission for about eighteen years. He is the 
father of two children: Frances L., born October 4, 1841, wife of Capt. S. S. 
Blackford, of Washington, D. C, and Henry C, born June 28, 1845, now a 
practicing physician in Cleveland, Ohio. Our subject has a beautiful home in 
Randolph Township, this county. 

JOSIAH BROCKET, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in New Haven, 
Conn., February 9, 1802, son of Jared and Eunice Brocket, natives of Con- 
necticut, where they remained until their death. Our subject came to this 
county June 1, 182*9. He was married, October 15, 1828, to Rebecca Raymon, 
born in Wallingford, Conn., April 19, 1807, daughter of John and Hannah 
Raymon. Mr. Raymon died in Connecticut, and his widow came to this county 
and here remained till her death. Mr. and Mrs. Brocket are the parents of 
eight children, six of whom survive: Susan, widow of Carie Redfield; Belinda, 
wife of Cyrus Bettice; Lucius; Helen, wife of David Yearien; Lucinda, wife 
of Lyman Eliot, and Zenas. The deceased are Leman and Norman. Our sub- 
ject is a mechanic, but has followed farming for several years, and now owns 
fifty acres of good land. He has filled the office of Trustee of his township. 
He and his wife are members of the Disciples Church. 

WILLIAM BROCKETT, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Connecti- 
cut, June 5, 1824, son of Albert and Betsey Brockett, former a native of Con- 
necticut, born May 28, 1795, latter of English origin, born January 4, 1797. 
They settled in this county in 1825, and here remained until their death, she 
dying August 5, 1843. Albert Brockett afterward married, October, 1844, Fan- 



788 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : 

nie Ward, who died soon after, and on March 31, 1846, he was married to 
Mrs. Frances M. Hanson, who is still living; he died February 6, 1878. Oar 
subject was married October 5, 1853, to Celinda Loomis, born in Randolph 
Township, this county, April 1, 1832, daughter of Harlon and Maria Loomis, 
the former of whom, a native of Massachusetts, died July 19, 1870; his widow, 
who still survives, was born in Portage County, Ohio. To Mr. and Mrs. 
Brockett have been born six children, four now living: Seth S., Emma M., 
Edward W. and Newell W. The deceased were infants. Mr. Brockett, who 
has been engaged in farming all his life, owns 205 acres of improved land on 
which he and his family reside. Himself and wife are members of the Dis- 
ciples Church. 

ANDREW BRUMBAUGH, farmer, P. O. New Baltimore, Stark Co., Ohio, 
was born in Pennsylvania July 5, 1830. His father came with his parents 
from Pennsylvania to Stark County, Ohio, in 1810. After he was of age he 
returned to his native State, and while there he married Catharine Stiffler, 
and after the birth of our subject they came to Stark County, Ohio, and in 
April, 1832, they located on Lot 10, in Randolph Township, this county, where 
they still reside. Here, with hard labor and economy, and suffering the pri- 
vations incident to pioneer life, they cleared up a large farm and raised a fam- 
ily of thirteen industrious children, viz. : Andrew, Ephraim, Nancy, Jacob, 
Isaac, Elizabeth, Conrad, Samuel, Mary, Susan, Henry P., Lydia and Eli, all 
married except the youngfest, who is twenty-six years old. Five of these, viz., 
Andrew, Ephraim, Isaac, Nancy and Samuel, own and live on farms adjoining 
the old home farm, and Henry P. and Eli are living with the parents on the 
old home. Our subject was married March 28, 1857, to Abigail Pontious, born 
in Stark County, Ohio, July 10, 1828, daughter of Nicholas and Eva Pontious, 
who came to Stark County, Ohio, from Pennsylvania in a very early day. To 
Mr. and Mrs. Brumbaugh were born fom" children: Angeline, Sarah A., Lou- 
isa and Cyrus. Our subject has been engaged in farming all his life, and 
owns 122 acres of improved land. He and his wife are members of the 
Brethren Church. He has filled the office of Trustee of his township for 
three years. 

EPHRAIM BRUMBAUGH, farmer, P. O. New Baltimore, Stark Co., Ohio, 
was born in Randolph Township, this county, IMay 7, 1832; son of Henry and 
Catharine Brumbaugh," natives of Pennsylvania, and residents of Randolph 
Township, this county. They reared thirteen children, all now living. Our 
subject, the next to the eldest of this family, was united in marriage May 
19, 1861, with Catharine Zug, born in Lancaster County, Penn., November 6, 
1842, a daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth Zug, both now living. Mrs. Brum- 
baugh died March 5, 1881, and after her death Mr. Brumbaugh was married, 
April 17, 1884, to Mellie Warner, born in Marlboro, Stark Co., Ohio, 
August 29, 1849, a daughter of Benjamin W. and Catharine Warner, both 
residing in Stark County. Our subject is the father of seven children, 
all by his first wife: Elmer, Elmira A., Emma E., Ervin and Hattie, now 
living, and Edwin and Ellen, deceased. Our subject, who has been engaged 
in farming and milling, owns thirty-six acres of improved land and a third 
interest in a saw-mill. He is a member of the German Baptist Church, of 
which his first wife was also a member; his present wife belongs to the 
United Brethren denomination. His father resides on the farm where he settled 
in 1832, when that part of the township was a vast wilderness. 

J. R. BUCKMAN, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born on the farm where 
he now resides in Randolph, May 6, 1836, son of Reuben and Parnell Buck- 
man, natives of Connecticut, and who immigrated to Portage County, Ohio, in 



RANDOLPH TOWNSHIP. 789 

1805. Reuben Buckman was born in 1800, and his wife in 1802. They set- 
tled in this county, where they remained till their death, he dying February 
7, 1860, his widow September 24, 1883. They were the parents of seven 
children, three of whom survive, two sons and one daughter. J. R. Buckman, 
our subject, has been engaged in farming all his life, and owns the undivided 
half of thirty-two acres, whereon he resides. He is a member of the Congre- 
gational Church, and has proved himself to be a good and faithful son. After 
his father's death he remained at home and cared for his mother until her 
demise. 

CHARLES H. BURNS, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Atwater, 
Portage Co., Ohio, October 15, 1831, son of John and Betsey Burns, both of 
whom died in this county, former, who was a native of Virginia, in 1854, 
latter, a native of Connecticut, in 1850. Our subject was united in marriage 
December 26, 1858, with Susan Kendrick, born in Brimfield Township, this 
county, March 16, 1839, daughter of David and Jane Kendrick, former a 
native of New Hampshire, the latter of Ireland, and who both died in Kent, 
Ohio, the father in 1876, the mother in 1879. To Mr. and Mrs. Burns have 
been born three children: Raymond C, Ethel and Vactor A. Mr. Burns has 
been a farmer all his life, and has bought and sold considerable real estate. 
He is now filling his fourth term as Trustee of this township. He has also 
been a member of the Board of Education, and these positions he has tilled 
with credit to himself and to the satisfaction of his constituents. 

GEORGE CARLILE, farmer, P. O. Marlborough, Stark Co., Ohio, was 
born in Trumbull County, Ohio, October 27, 1837, son of Canada and Julia 
Carlile, respectively natives of Pennsylvania and Trumbull County, Ohio, and 
who came to this county about 1846, where they remained until the father's 
death, January 4, 1882; the mother is residing on the home farm. Our sub- 
ject was married September 15, 1867, to Phidelia Baldwin, born in Portage 
County, Ohio, February 28, 1844, the daughter of Philemon and Harriet 
Baldwin, the former of whom was a native of this county, the latter of Ver- 
mont. They settled in this county, where Mr. Baldwin died February 9, 
1865; his widow now resides in Trumbull County, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Car- 
lile have one child — Bernice, born April 8, 1869. Our subject served in the 
late war of the Rebellion, having enlisted September, 1861, as a private in 
Company D, Nineteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and after his discharge in 
1862 he re-enlisted in the Second Ohio Heavy Artillery, in which he served 
until he was transferred to the Eighth Veteran Invalid Corps, Company B, 
remaining with this company until he was commissioned Second Lieutenant 
of Company E, Sixth United States Infantry. Mr. Carlile received an hon- 
orable discharge October, 1866, Mr. Carlile is' a plasterer by trade, but has 
been engaged in farming, and owns fifty-six acres of good land where he and 
his family reside. 

J. P. COE, farmer and tile manufacturer, P. O. Randolph, is a native of 
Randolph Township, Portage Co., Ohio, born April 5, 1821, son of Almon B. 
and Climena (Spellman) Coe, natives of Massachusetts. Almon B. Coe came 
to this county in 1811, his wife in 1816, and here remained until bis death in 
1853. After his death his widow moved to Wisconsin, where she resides 
with her daughter. Our subject was married October 22, 1845, to Jane A. 
Spees, born in Onondaga, N. Y. , March 7, 1824, daughter of Lanson and 
Harriet Spees, natives of Greene County, N. Y. , and who came to Randolph 
Township, this county, in 1837, remaining until their death. Mr. Spees 
died July 19, 1868, his widow, February 13, 1873. Mrs. Coe, our subject's 
wife, died February 3, 1883. She was a member of the Congregational Church. 



790 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

To Mr. and Mrs. Coe were born three children: Emma C, wife of Dr. H. 
C. Brainerd, Almon B. and Charles P. Mr. Coe, who has been engaged in 
farming all his life, owns seventy acres of improved land. He has tilled the 
offices of Trustee and Justice of the Peace of his township. He and his son 
Charles P. are engaged in the manufacture of tile. Mr. Coe has been a mem- 
ber of the Congregational Church for many years. 

JOSEPH COLER, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Randolph Town- 
ship, this county, July 17, 1837, a son of Joseph and Eva Coler, natives of 
France, who came to America about 1829, and here remained until the death 
of the mother in 1844, after which the father married a Mrs. Crawford and 
moved to Illinois, where they remained until their death, he dying in 1865. 
Our subject was married January 1, 1867, to Elizabeth Moos, who was born in 
Randolph Township, this county, in April, 1846, a daughter of Adam and 
Elizabeth Moos, natives of Baden, Germany, who came to this county in 1842, 
where they remained until the latter' s death. Adam Moos resides in Ran- 
dolph Township. Mr. and Mrs. Coler are the parents of four children: Albert, 
Edward, Ira IT. and Mary E. Our subject has been engaged in farming, and 
owns seventy acres of good land. He enlisted in 1861, in Company D, First 
Ohio Light Artillery, and served until the close of the war, when he was mus- 
tered out. He was in the battle of Shiloh, in the Atlanta campaign, at the bat- 
tles of Franklin and Nashville, in the siege of Knoxville, and in other engage- 
ments. He has filled the office of Trustee of his township. He and his wife 
are members of the Congregational Church. 

MARVIN COLLINS, ex-merchant, Randolph, was born in Randolph Town- 
ship, this county, April 11, 1846, son of Austin and Delight Collins, the 
former a native of Conway, Mass., the latter of Randolph Township, this 
county. Austin Collins, who was a farmer, came to Ohio at a very early day 
and was man-ied at Randolph, where he and his wife located and remained 
until their death, the former dying November 30, 1881, the latter in October, 
1882. Our subject was married September 8, 1868, to Susan A. Gates, born 
in Illinois in June, 1851, a daughter of Sherman W. and Eleanor C. Gates, 
who now reside in Michigan. Mrs. Collins is a member of the Disciples 
Church. Our subject has been engaged in mercantile business most of his 
life, and owns a beautiful residence where he and his wife now reside. He 
opened his store in 1869, and sold out last March to O. Bentley. Mr. Collins 
and wife are a very pleasant couple, and rank among the better class of peo- 
ple of this township. 

JOSEPH C. COZENS, farmer, P. O. Marlborough, Stark County, was 
born in Marlboro, Stark Co., Ohio, September 6, 1824, son of William and 
Martha Cozens, the former of whom was a native of Maryland, the latter of 
Virginia. They were among the first settlers of Stark County, Ohio, where they 
remained until their death, he dying in 1841 and she in 1864. Our subject 
was married October 7, 1860, to Barbara Boston, who was born in Columbiana 
County, Ohio, June 9, 1834, daughter of John and Mary Boston. To Mr. 
and Mrs. Cozens has been born one child — Ella, born September 10, 1861, 
now the wife of William Biles, an enterprising and industrious young man, 
who bids fair to make his mark in the world. Mr. Cozens owns seventy-five 
acres of improved land where he and his family reside, his daughter and hus- 
band residing with him. They are members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. They moved to Portage County from Stark County in 1883. 

JAMES A. CRAIG, marble cutter P. O. Randolph, was born in Lake 
County, Ohio, February 14, 1839. His parents, James and Barbara Craig, 
were natives of Connecticut, and early settlers of Lake County, Ohio, whence 



RANDOLPH TOWNSHIP. 791 

they removed to Deerfield Township, this county, where Mrs. Craig died. 
They were parents of the following children: James A., Jane, Chancy, Char- 
ley and Ann. James Craig resides with a son in Deerheld Township, this 
county, and is in the seventv-fourth year of his age. The subject of this 
sketch was by trade a machinist. In 1861 he enlisted in Company A, Nine- 
teenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served the ninety days' call; re-enlisted, 
this time in Company D, Nineteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served 
through the war. He did active duty at Stone River, where he was wounded 
in the foot, which disabled him for one year. He was again wounded (in the 
knee) at Shiloh. and confined to hospital seven months. He recovered in time 
to participate in the Atlanta campaign, the battles of Nashville, Franklin, 
Lookout Mountain, Mission Ridge, Kenesaw Mountain, Cumberland Gap, Pea 
Ridge, Buzzard's Roost, Crab Apple Orchard, and, on the field where the gal- 
lant McPherson fell, he was struck by a shell which for a time rendered him 
unfit for service. He was also at the storming of Fort Donelson, and was 
mustered out at San Antonio, Tex., in the fall of 1865. Returning to peaceful 
pursuits he leased the stone-cutting and marble business which he has carried 
on in Randolph Township, this county, where he resides. He was man'ied 
in this township to Miss Lorintha Ward. Their children now living are 
Rose A., born August 18, 1876; Boyd, born March 9, 1878: and Milly I., born 
August 9, 1882. Mr. Craig is a member of the .G. A. R. 

Z. A. DAVIS, retired farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in New York, Feb- 
ruary 18, 1819; son of Henry and Lodema D. Davis, natives of New York, 
and who emigrated to Randolph Township, this county, about 1825. Mrs. 
Davis died there in 1827, and Mr. Davis then married, for his second wife, 
Mary Col ton, born in this county; died in 1853. Henry Davis died in Ran- 
dolph Township in 1851. Our subject, Z. A. Davis, was married, in 1810, to 
Betsey M. Sears, born in Randolph Township, this county, and after her death 
Mr. Davis married. May 23, 1852, Caroline D. Anderson, born in New York in 
1826. Our subject is the father of six <;hildren, four of whom survive: G. 
AY., Arthur C, Celestia A. and Darwin B. The deceased are Cassius M., 
killed by the cars in 1875, and Emmett A., who died in 1871. Mr. Davis has 
been engaged in farming most of his life, but is now a retired capitalist. He 
and his wife are members of the Disciples Church, and are a highly respected 
couple. He has been acting Justice of the Peace for the last six years, and 
is said to control the most property of any man in town. 

DAN DIBBLE, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Randolph Township, 
this county, June 17, 1827, the son of Dan and Mary Dibble, natives of Con- 
necticut, who came to this county in 1818, where they remained until his 
death (caused by the falling of a tree), October 26, 1827. His widow subse- 
quently married Philetus Hillyer, of Trumbull County, Ohio, and lived m that 
county until his death, when she returned to Randolph and lived with her son 
Dan until her demise, August 18, 1870. Our subject was married, November 
2, 1847, to Anjenette Rossiter, who was born in Randolph Township, this 
county, in 1826, and died January 19, 1855. January 19, 1856, Mr. Dibble 
then married Harriet Winchell, born in Randolph in 1830, a daughter of 
David and Eunice Winchell, both deceased. Our subject is the father of three 
children: Giles F., Seymour D. and Mary H., wife of A. D. Hoskins. He has 
been engaged in farming all his life and owns about 118 acres of improved 
land, also town property. 

ALPHEUS DICKINSON, retired farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in 
Granville, Mass., October 8, 1793; son of Oliver and Lovica Dickinson, who 
emigrated to Portage County, Ohio, in 1805, the latter of whom died in 1818. 



792 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

After her death Oliver Dickinson married, for his second wife, Lydia Rose, a 
sister of his first wife, and who died in 1842. Our subject was married six 
times. He was united in marriage on first occasion November 15, 1815, with 
Hannah Sears, born in 1798, died March 15, 1824. His second wife, Percy 
Roberts, was born April 11, 1801, married October 10, 1824, and lived until 
April 1, 1826. His third wife, Mary Johnson, was born January 19, 1803, 
married June 19, 1826, and died March 20, 1832. His fourth wife was 
Maria A. Curtis, born July 11, 1807, married March 7, 1833, died January 
19, 1864. His fifth wife was Martha Sears, born March 20, 1834, married 
May 18, 1864, died December 26, 1866. These were all maiden ladies. His 
sixth and last wife was Mrs. Evaline Richmond, born April 3, 1808, married 
August 28, 1867, died February 13, 1881. Our subject is the father of three 
sons and three daughters, five of whom are living. Mr. Dickinson was a sol- 
dier in the war of 1812, being drafted and mustered into service February 15, 
1813, under Lieut. John Redden. Was then marched to Lower Sandusky, 
where now stands the city of Fremont. He served seventy days, and supplied 
a substitute by his father's desire to fill balance of time, six months, which 
debarred him from receiving a pension. He has engaged in farming all his 
life, and owns at present twenty-three acres of land in Randolph Township, 
this county, where he and his family reside. He has been a member of the 
Congregational Church since 4.821, and is one of the oldest citizens in the 
township. 

WALTER J. DICKINSON, merchant, Randolph, was born in Portage 
County, Ohio, January 27, 1832; son of Alpheus and Mary Dickinson (whose 
sketch appears in this work). January 28, 1853, our subject was married to 
Elmina A. Chatfield, who was born in Killingworth, Conn., May 11, 1834, and 
died July 17, 1882. She was a daughter of Lewis and Rachel Chatfield, 
natives of Connecticut, who came to Ohio in 1844. settling at Sfcowe, Summit 
County, where they remained until 1848, when they moved to Randolph Town- 
ship, this county. January 20, 1884, Mr. Chatfield died, and his widow now 
resides in Randolph Township, this county. To our subject and wife were 
born six children, of whom four are now living: Mary E., born July 1, 1856; 
Alpheus L., born November 17, 1859; Seldon C, born June 5, 1864, and 
Maria R., born August 20, 1869. The deceased are Lewis J., born December 
3, 1853, died March 10, 1855, and Rosa, born August 1, 1858, and died August 
8, same year. Our subject has been the proprietor of a general store in Ran- 
dolph for many years; he filled the position of Postmaster at Randolph from 
July 1, 1861, until May, 1869. He is a member of the Congregational 
Church, of which his deceased wife was also a member, they having enlisted 
in the good cause in January, 1852. Mr. Dickinson has tilled the office of 
Township Clerk almost continuously since 1855; was a member of the special 
School Board for four years. He owns about twelve acres of land, on which 
is a neat house where his family reside with him. He is a useful man in the 
community in which he lives. 

G. W. DODGE, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Nelson, New 
Hampshire, December 11, 1830, son of William J. and Ann Dodge, who 
moved to Akron, Ohio, in 1837, and in 1846 to this county, where they 
remained until the death of "the father December 19, 1882. The mother is a 
resident of Randolph Township, this county. Our subject was married 
August 9, 1860, to Minerva Hoskins, daughter of Milo and Polly Hoskins, the 
former deceased, latter now living. Mr. and Mrs. Dodge have had six chil- 
dren, five of whom are now living: Addie M. , William J., George A., Mabel 
and Harry. Belle is deceased. Mr. Dodge has been engaged in farming all 



RANDOLPH TOWNSHIP. 793 

his life, and owns 103 acres in Kandolph Township, this county, where he 
and his family reside. He and his wife are members of the Disciples Church. 

A. P. DONNELL, retired farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Lisbon, 
Columbiana Co., Ohio, August 6, 1818, son of John and Maria Donnell, natives 
of Pennsylvania, but who removed to Ohio, settling first in Columbiana County, 
afterward in Portage County, where they remained until their death. The 
mother died April 26, 1846, the father December 17, 1863. Our subject was 
married February 11, 1841, to Harriet C. Dye, daughter of Frederick and 
Lovina Dye, who were natives of New York, remaining there until the latter's 
death, which occurred December 24, 1831, after wLich Frederick Dye came to 
Ohio and spent the balance of his life here, dying August 15, 1855. Harriet 
C. was born November 29, 1820, and died August 26, 1874. On July 5, 1875, 
our subject was married to Susan E. Rogers, who was born in Holmes County, 
Ohio, October 25, 1830, daughter of John and Elizabeth Spellman, Our sub- 
ject is the father of seven children, six of whom are now living: Juliet, Sarah 
A., Francis M., Charles E., Edson and Carrietta. Clinton is deceased. Our 
subject and family live in Randolph Township. He worked in leather most 
of his life, but has been engaged in farming to some extent of late years. 

JOHN DUSSEL, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Germany Septem- 
ber 7, 1819, son of Peter and Elizabeth Dussel, who remained in Germany 
until the death of the father in about 1858; the mother died in 1878. Our 
subject was married in May, 1847, to Barbara Riesenbach, born in Germany in 
1814, daughter of Nicholas Riesecbach. They have had four children: Peter 
L., John H. (a practicing attorney in Ravenna, Ohio), Barbara and Anna B. 
Mr. Dussel, who is a surgeon, practiced his profession about twenty-five years, 
but has since been engaged in farming, and owns forty-six acres of land. He 
came to Randolph Township, this county, in the fall of 1846, and has 
remained here ever since. He has been a member of the School Board of his 
township; is a F. & A. M. Mrs. Dussel died September 19, 1878, a kind mother 
and loving wife, and her loss is still mourned. 

PETER ELMERICK, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Randolph 
Township, Portage Co., Ohio, October 29, 1854, a son of Joseph and Mary 
Elmerick, natives of Germany, who located in this county in 1844, where they 
still reside. The father has been a life-long farmer, and has attained the ripe 
old age of sixty-six years; the mother is sixty-four years old. Both are con- 
sistent members of the Catholic Church. They are the parents of nine chil- 
dren, all living: Peter (our subject), Joseph, John, William, Frank, Anthony, 
Mary, Clara and Elizabeth. Peter Elmerick acquired a good common school 
education, and has engaged in farming all his life, now owning ninety-two 
acres of improved land in Randolph Township. He is a member of the Cath- 
olic Church. He has been very successful through life, and bids fair to make 
his mark in the world. 

JOHN FOX, farmer, P. O. New Baltimore, Stark County, was born in 
Fairfield Township, Columbiana Co., Ohio, March 9, 1833, and is a son of 
John and Susanna Fox, natives of Pennsylvania, and who came to Colum- 
biana County, Ohio, but after living here some years moved to Stark County, 
where they remained until their death. ' The mother died December 30, 1848, 
and the father was subsequently united in marriage with Barbara A. Thomas, 
who died in February, 1865. He died December 21, 1865. Om- subject was 
married June 19, 1853, to Catharine Neiswonger, born in Stark County, Ohio, 
November 18, 1824, daughter of Abraham and Barbara Neiswocger, who also 
died there, and by this union have been born seven children, six of whom are 
now living: Benjamin F., Levi M., David S., John L., Isaac W. and Lydia 



794 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES 

A. Jennie A. is deceased. Our subject was reared on a farm, and has fol- 
lowed agi'icultural pursuits through life. He owns 125 acres of fine land 
where he and his family reside. Himself and wife are members of the Pres- 
byterian Church. 

";>• G. O. FEASER, physician, P. O. Randolph, was born in Wellsville, Col- 
umbiana Co., Ohio, February 24, 1840, a son of John and Margaret Fraser, who 
were of Scotch origin, born in Columbiana County, Ohio, where they remained 
until the death of the father, November 9, 1871; the mother resides on the 
home fai'm in Columbiana County, Ohio. Our subject was married, December 
7, 1862, to Libbie M. Icenhour, born in Columbiana County, Ohio, June 1, 
1845, daughter of John E. and Mary C. Icenhour, who wei*e of English 
descent, former born in Ohio, latter in Lincolnshire, England. They lived in 
Columbiana County until her death, February 14, 1878. Mr. Icenhour still 
resides iij his native county. Mr. and Mrs. Fraser are the parents of three 
children, two of whom are now living: Crrin C, born April 24, 1864, and M. 
Edna, born September 1, 1866; John I., born July 27, 1874, died September 
22, 1881. Our subject for a number of years dealt in marble and imported 
granite from Scotland. Afterward he read medicine, graduated in the regular 
school of medicine at Cleveland, Ohio, in 1876, and is now practicing in 
Randolph, Ohio, with good success. He is a F. & A. M, 

DANIEL FULMER, farmer, P. O. New Baltimore, Stark Co., Ohio, was 
born in Stark County, Ohio, February 8, 1836; son of Jacob and Catharine 
Fulmer, natives of Germany, who settled in Stark County, Ohio, in a very 
early day. After living there some thirty years they moved to Randolph 
Township, this county, and here Jacob Fulmer died in 1861. His widow is now 
a resident of Brimtield Township, this county. Our subject was united in 
marriage, April 22, 1866, with Lovina Wagoner, born in Stark County, in 
1844, a daughter of Jacob and Magdalene Wagoner, both now living. Mr. and 
Mrs. Fulmer have had three children, one of whom is living — Norman F., born 
March 23, 1869. An infant and Ervin C. are deceased. Our subject, who has 
been engaged in farming all his life, now owns eighty-five acres of land where 
he and his family reside. Himself and wife have been members of the Ger- 
man Reformed Church since they were children. 

ADAM GOOTHIER, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born April 5, 1843, 
in Randolph Township, this county, on the farm where he now resides; son of 
Adam and Catharine Goothier, natives of Germany, and who located in this 
county in 1832, where they remained until the death of the father in 1862. The 
mother departed this life in 1874. Our subject was married, February 22, 
1876, to Catharine Kline, born in Rootstown Township, this county, June 16, 
1855, daughter of John F. and Elizabeth Kline, natives of Germany, and who 
settled in this county, where they have remained. Mr. and Mrs. Goothier have 
had three children: Elizabeth, Henry and Julius. Our subject, who has 
engaged in farming all his life, owns fifty-three acres of land, where he and 
his family reside. He and his wife are members of the Catholic Chui'ch. 

THOMAS GORBY, farmer and stock dealer, P. O. Randolph, was born in 
Columbiana County, Ohio, October 6, 1818; son of Jonathan and Ann Gorby. 
They were natives of Delaware but immigrated to Ohio and first settled in 
Columbiana County about 1814; afterward when our subject was about eight 
years of age, they moved to Stark County, Ohio, where Mrs. Gorby had the 
misfortune to lose her mind. She afterward recovered her former health and 
died in Hancock County, Ohio, in 1841. Jonathan Gorby came to this county 
where he remained some years, then visited Gallia County, Ohio, where he 
concluded to remain. He was killed by the fall of a tree in 1855. Our sub- 



RANDOLPH TOAVNSHIP. 795 

ject was united in marriage, September 4, 1842, with Wealthy Goss, born 
in this township, July 10, 1820, daughter of Davis and Hannah Goss, the 
former a native of Connecticut, the latter of Vermont, and who settled and 
remained in Randolph Township, this county, all their lives. The father died 
while on a visit to his son at Indianapolis, Ind., October 23, 1848. The mother 
departed this life ten years previously, and after her death, September 19, 
1847, Davis Goss was married to Mrs. Polly Roundy, who is also deceased. 
To Mr. and Mrs. Gorby have been born six children, three of whom survive: 
Marietta, wife of David Simison; Emogene, wife of Dr. G. A. Case, of Kent, 
Ohio, and Emeline, wife of Herbert O. Hutson. Edmond was born March 31, 
1846, died July 21, 1865. Our subject, who has been engaged in farming 
and dealing in stock all his life, owns about 330 acres of land, mostly 
improved. He has tilled the office of County Commissioner and Township 
Assessor. His wife is a member of the Disciples Church. 

J. F. HAUGHAWONT, retired farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in 
Juniata County, Penn. , December 22, 1824, son of Peter and Mary Haugha- 
wont, who came to Ohio in 1830, and here remained until their death; the 
former died in October, 1858, and the latter in January, 1882. Peter Haugha- 
wont followed farming through life. Our subject was married March 21, 
1854, to Helen M. Pegg, who was born in Palmyra, this county, February 29, 
1836, daughter of Samuel and Lydia B. (Day) Pegg, former a native of New 
Jersey, latter of New York. They settled in Ohio at an early day, remaining 
for several years, when they removed to Indiana, where Mrs. Pegg died in 
December, 1837. Thence Mr. Pegg came to Illinois, where he died in 1842. 
The union of our subject and wife has been blessed with four children, three 
of whom survive: Joel C, born March 13, 1855; MaryE., born November 11, 
1860, and Cordelia E., born July 3, 1866; the deceased is Alida P., born May 
3, 1859, died December 11, 1859. Our subject has engaged in farming most 
of his life, but is now retired. Mrs. Haughawont is a member of the Univer- 
salist Church. Our subject owns 230 acres of land in this township, has 
filled the office of Trustee in Suffield Township, and is one of the present 
Trustees of Randolph Township, this county. 

LEWIS HINE, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Randolph Township, 
this county, October 11, 1824, son of Jonah and Jerusha Hine, natives of 
Connecticut, the former of whom came to Ohio in 1818, the latter in 1805, 
and were there married November 23, 1820, locating in Randolph Township, 
where they remained until their death. Jonah Hine died November 23, 1842, his 
widow June 13, 1872. Our subject was married March 22, 1849, to Clarintine 
Bostwick, born in Pennsylvania, November 27, 1826, daughter of Daniel and 
Sophia Bostwick (both deceased). Our subject and wife have three children 
living: Eldora, wife of A. H.Brewster, Loretta, and Sidney H., born November 
10, 1866, and one Aurilla Hoffman, deceased, at age of twenty-five years. ]\£r. 
Hines received a common school education and has been engaged in farming. 
He owns about forty-two acres of land in Randolph Township, this county. 
His wife is a member of the Methodist Church. Mr. Hine's family ranks 
among the leading residents of Randolph Township. 

W. W. HONEYWELL, carriage builder, P. O. Randolph, is a native of 
Portage County, Ohio, where he was born in Randolph Township, February 
28, 1839, son of John C. and Dorcas Honeywell, natives of Pennsylvania, but 
who removed to Ohio at an early day, settling in this county, and remained 
until the death of the former in February, 1875; the latter resides in Ran- 
dolph Township, this county. On July 4, 1861, our subject was married to 
Maria E. Terry, born in Randolph, August 4, 1839, daughter of Timothy and 



796 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Almira Terry, natives of Connecticut, but who moved to Ohio when Portage 
County was a wilderness, and here they remained until th'eir death. Mr. and 
Mrs. Honeywell are the parents of live children: Ellsworth I., Yiola A., Will- 
iam C, Albert A. and Ida A. Mr. Honeywell had been engaged in wagon and 
carriage making until within a few years since, when he embarked in commer- 
cial business. Mrs. Honeywell is a member of the Disciples Church. He 
has a nice property, where he and his family reside, owning also other property 
in Randolph Township. Their parents were among the pioneers of the county 
and experienced many hardships during its infancy. 

N. D. HOSKIN, salesman, P. O. Randolph, was born in Portage County, 
Ohio, September 13, 1851, son of Milo and Polly Hoskin. He was united in 
marriage September 30, 1875, with Mary Dibble, a native of this county, born 
October 5. 1857, a daughter of Daniel and Harriet Dibble, residents of Ran- 
dolph Township, this county. Mr. Hoskin and wife are the parents of two 
children: Hattie L., born October 28, 1877, and Howard D., born June 10, 
1880. Our subject acquired a good common school education, and has engaged 
in commercial business all his life. He has been successful in all of his 
undertakings, and now owns a nice property in Randolph Center, Ohio. He 
and family command the respect of all who know them. 

ORVIEL HUTSON, of Randolph, was born in Paris Township, Portage 
Co., Ohio, December 6, 1824. He is the second son of Richard R. and Nancy 
(Best) Hutson, who in 1830 settled in Edinburg, Portage Co. , Ohio, making that 
their permanent home. His father was a native of Virginia, and died in 1851, 
at the age of fifty-three years. His mother was born in Pennsylvania, but in 
early childhood removed with her parents to Ohio. She died in 1875. Mr. 
Hutson was married, May 27, 1847, to Maria S. Clark, who was born in Con- 
cord, Lake Co., Ohio, October 17, 1824. Mrs. Hutson is of New England ori- 
gin, her parents, Billings and Caroline (Brigden) Clark, being among the pio- 
neer settlers of northern Ohio. The former died March 18, 1883, aged ninety- 
three years, the latter in April, 1870. Mr. and Mrs. Hutson have had four 
children, three of whom are living: Celia, Herbert and Jennie; Adelbert dying 
in infancy. Mr. Hutson and family settled in Randolph in 1863. He has 
been engaged in farming all his life, now owning ninety-five acres, where he 
and his wife reside. Mr. and Mrs. Hutson are members of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church. He has tilled the office of Township Trustee, and has also 
been a member of the School Board. 

JOSEPH B. JEROME, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in New York 
State, October 24, 1819, son of Alva and Melica Jerome, who came to Portage 
County, Ohio, when Joseph B. was three or four years of age, and here remained 
until their death. Our subject was married, February 17. 1850, to Mary M. 
Churchill, born in Randolph Township, this county, March 10, 1826, daugh- 
ter of Stephen and Maria Churchill. Stephen Churchill was born in 1796, 
and died in 1879. His widow, who was born in 1803, is now residing with 
her daughter, Mrs. Jerome. To our subject and wife have been born four 
children, three now living: Louela A., born May 6, 1856, now the widow of 
Milfred Meacham; Nettie J., born December 1, 1861, died July 16, 1884; Jes- 
sie M., born September 5. 1865, and Joseph E., born August 14, 1867. Mr. 
Jerome has been engaged in farming most of his life, and owns forty-five acres 
of land where he resides. He and his wife are members of the Disciples 
Church. 

JOHN A. KELLER, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Randolph 
Township, Portage Co., Ohio, July 14, 1846, son of Thomas (a farmer and 
shoe-maker), and Paulina Keller, natives of Germany, former born September 



RANDOLPH TOWNSHIP. 797 

4, 3821, latter born June 27, 1825. They arrived in this county October 25, 
1845, where they have since i-emained. They had a family of ten children. 
Our subject worked for his father till he was twenty-one years of age, com- 
mencing the trade of painter in 1859, and at this he worked until three years 
ago, when he turned his attention to farming exclusively. He was married, 
December 26, 1871, to Susan Rupright, born in Stark County, Ohio, October 
3, 1852, daughter of William and Mary Rupright, natives of Pennsylvania, 
and who located in an early day in Stark County, Ohio, where they have 
remained ever since. To this union have been born five children, foui' now 
living: Cora L., born November 22, 1873; Dela A., born January 19, 1876; 
Mary A., born January 21, 1879, and Eva Elizabeth, born October 25, 1884. 
Gerty A., born December 11, 1872, died January 4, 1873. Mr. Keller has met 
with good success in life, and owns about seventy-eight acres, where he and 
his family reside. He is a member of the School Board, and in 1882 was 
Supervisor. Our subject is a member of the Catholic Church. His wife 
belongs to the German Lutheran denomination. 

ADAM KLEIN, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Germany January 
12, 1832, son of John and Elizabeth Klein, natives of Germany, who immi- 
grated to Ohio in 1832, and settled in Randolph Township, this county, where 
the latter died in 1841. Mr. Klein then married Gertie Deppre, who died in 
1861, and he followed her September 7, 1881. Our subject was married, Jan- 
uary 30, 1856, to Barbara Shaffer, born in Germany October 27, 1834, daugh- 
ter of John Shaffer. Her parents both died in Germany, and she came to 
America when she was about eighteen years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Klein are 
the parents of fourteen children: Eva, John C. , Elizabeth, Barbara, Mary A., 
Clara E., Anna M., George, Adam, Emma A., Henry, Lewis, William and 
Alfred. Our subject has been engaged in farming through life with success, 
and now owns eighty-two acres of improved land. He and his family are 
members of the Catholic Church. 

GEORGE KLING, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Baden, Germany, 
March 22, 1825; a son of Nicholas and Katherine Kling, natives of Germany, 
and who died there. Our subject is a wagon-maker by trade, having worked 
in the shop about thirty years. He also worked in St. Louis three years. He 
was married, January 1, 1850, in St. Louis, to Margaret Loubert, born in 
Baden, Germany, March 5, 1826, daughter of Martin and Anna M. Loubert, 
who came to this county in 1848, where they remained until their death. To 
Mr. and Mrs. Kling have been born nine children, seven of whom are now 
living: Anna, Catharine, Margaret, Martin, Adam, Jacob and George W. The 
deceased are Mary and George. Our subject has been engaged in farming, 
and now owns seventy-eight acres of good land, where he and his family 
reside. He and his wife are members of the German Reformed Church. Mr. 
Kling has met with fair success through life. 

JOHN KNAPP, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Randolph Township, 
Portage Co., Ohio, October 20, 1842; son of John and Agnes Knapp, natives 
of Germany, who settled in this county about 1831, where they have since 
remained. Our subject was mai-ried February 8, 1870, to Elizabeth Shroder, 
born in this township in 1844, daughter of Joseph and Mary Shroder, the 
former deceased in 1880, the latter still living. Mr. and Mrs. Knapp are the 
parents of four children, two of whom survive: Henry and Willie (twins), 
born September 30, 1883; the deceased are Mary and Frank. Our subject has 
been engaged in farming all his life and now owns seventy-one acres of 
improved land on which there is a beautiful house where he and his family 
reside. They are all members of the Catholic Church. 

42 



798 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : 

H. F. LADD, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Randolph Township, 
this county, July 1, 1859; a son of Henry and Sophia (Youngman) Ladd, former 
born in Mantua, Ohio, October 23, 1816; they were married May 15, 1849; he 
died June 3, 1864; Sophia, his widow, was born in Maine, February 7, 1824; 
moved with her parents to Ohio in 1834, and died April 1, 1884. Henry Ladd, 
who had been engaged in farming through life, was the parent of four chil- 
dren, three of whom are now living: Mary S. , born June 7, 1851, married to 
Samuel A. Woolf October 24, 1872; Henry F., and Edward H., who was born 
August 22, 1862, married November 5, 1884, to Cora E. Hatcher, born Sep- 
tember 22, 1864, daughter of Harrison and Ann Eliza Hatcher. The deceased 
is William H., born November 25, 1856, died September 13, 1858. Our sub- 
ject was married July 3, 1881, to Ella D. Cavender, born in Atwater, Portage 
County, Ohio, March 24, 1861, daughter of David and Harriet (Sears) Caven- 
der. Our subject with his brother is engaged in farming the old homestead, 
consisting of 113 acres of improved land, which they own. The name Ladd 
is recognized among the old pioneers of this county. 

RUSSEL LOOMIS, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Randolph Town- 
ship, Portage Co., Ohio, April 1, 1830; son of Jason and Marietta Loomis, 
former a native of Connecticut, latter of Ohio, and who located in Randolph 
Township, this county, and here remained until the death of the mother in 
1852. Jason Loomis mariied for his second wife Rosaaa Hawn, who died in 
1875, and he then went to Indiana, where he died in 1880. Our subject was 
married November 5, 1854, to Kadijah Hiltabidel, who died November 5, 1879, 
and on April 27, 1882, he married Eliza Crockett, born March 8, 1837, in 
Virginia, daughter of James and Sarah Crockett. Our subject is the father 
of four children: Elmer G., Rolla J., Nettie E. and Nora M. Mr. Loomis, 
who has been engaged in farming and brick making, owns eighty-three acres 
on which he has a fine brick residence where he and his family reside, also 
sixty-five acres of land in Indiana. 

S. M. LOOMIS, farmer, P. O. Randolph, is the widow of Harris J. Loo- 
mis, who was born in Randolph Township, this county, April 10, 1838; son 
of Harlon and Maria W. Loomis, natives of Connecticut, who came to Ohio 
and settled in Randolph Township, this county* in a very early day, remaining 
until his death, July 19, 1870. His widow now resides on the farm where 
they moved when first married, in Randolph Township. H. J. Loomis was 
first married to Permelia Stoffer, born in Sufl&eld Township, this county, 
November 24, 1843, a daughter of Arthur Stoflfer, who resides in Randolph 
Township, this county. To this union were born two children, one living — 
Dora B., born November 12, 1863; Walter H. is deceased. After the death of 
Mrs. Loomis, Mr. Loomis was united in marriage March 28, 1873, with Mrs. 
Susan M. Bain, born in Roolstown Township, this county, October 10, 1839; 
daughter of Henry and Elizabeth France (former of whom died in 1865; lat- 
ter now resides in Randolph Township, this county). To this union were born 
four children: Zofoa B., born May 8, 1874; Maud F., born September 21, 1875; 
Clyde H., born May 7, 1877, and Harris R., born September 24, 1880. Mr. 
Loomis was engaged in farming and stock-raising all his life, and he and his 
family, at the time of his death, owned 240 acres of improved land with a 
beautiful residence and out-buildings on the same. He was Land Assessor in 
1880, and filled the office of Township Assessor two terms. He died Novem- 
ber 10, 1883. His widow and her family reside on the home fcxrm. 

S. E. LOOMIS, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Atwater, was born on the 
farm where he and his family now reside in Randolph Township, Portage Co., 
Ohio, March 18, 1845, son of Harlon and Maria Loomis, the former of whom 



RANDOLPH TOWNSHIP. 799 

was a native of Mansachusefcts, the latter of Ohio. Harlon Loomis settled in 
this county in 1818, where he remained until his death, which occurred July 
19, 1870. His widow is still living. Oar subject was united in marriage 
December 15, 1874, with Alice Wheeler, born October 10, 1853, in Marl- 
boro, Stark Co., Ohio, daughter of Jeiferson and Mary Wheeler. To this 
union have been born two children: Harlon W., born December 1, 1875, and 
Daisy M., born October 5. 1879. '" Mr. Loomis has been engaged in farming 
and stock-raising all his life, and owns at present "285 acres of first-class land, 
whereon he and his family reside. He has filled the office of Trustee in Ran- 
dolph Township. He and his wife are members of the Disciples Church. 

ALBERT H. LOOMIS, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Randolph 
Township, this county. July 21, 1848, son of Harlon and Maria Loomis, for- 
mer of whom died July 19, 1870; his widow still survives him. Our subject 
was married April 20, 1S73, to Alice France, born in Randolph Township, this 
county, September 22, 1853, daughter of Calvin and Esther A. France, natives 
of Ohio, who remained here all their lives and now reside in Rootstown Town- 
ship. Mr. and Mrs. Loomis are the parents of four children, three of whom 
are now living: Minnie E.. born September 28, 1874; Waldo F., born April 
22, 1882, and Ada M., born September 9, 1883. Bertha, born April 27, 1878, 
died August 14, 18/8. Our subject, who has been engaged in farming all his 
life, owns 112^ acres of improved land in Randolph Township, whereon he and 
his family lately resided, and a farm of 41i acres situated one-half mile east 
of Randolph Center, where the family moved in the spring of 1885, making 
in all 154 acres. Mr. and Mrs. Loomis are members of the Christian Church. 
He has met with good success in life, and himself and family are among the 
leading residents of Randolph. 

JOHN MAXWELL, farmer, P. O. Marlborough, Stark Co., Ohio, was 
born in New Baltimore, that county, December 24, 1831, son of Alexander and 
Judith Maxwell, natives of Pennsylvania, who came to Stark County, Ohio, 
about 1825, remaining there about twelve years, then moved to this county, 
where the mother died in 1851, and after her demise the father was united in 
marriage with Amy Winders. He died March 11, 1885; his widow survives 
him. Our subject was married August 18, 1860, to Elsie E. Honeywell, born 
October 19, 1835, in East Liberty, Allegheny Co., Penn., daughter of JohnC. 
and Dorcas Honeywell, the former of whom was a native of New Jersey, the 
latter of Pennsylvania. They came to this county and here remained until 
his death, which occurred February 24, 1875. His widow survives him. To 
Mr. and Mrs. Maxwell have been born three children: Bertha D., Elma E. 
and Jesse L. Mr. Maxwell, who has engaged in farming all his life, owns 
eighty-six acres of land whex'e he and his family reside. Himself, wife and 
two daughters are members of the Disciples Church. 

CHARLES MEACHAM, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Tallmadge, 
Summit Co., Ohio. May 6, 1822, son of Russell and Betsey Meacham, natives of 
Litchfield County, Conn., and who came to Ohio in 1818, and after moving about 
from place to place finally settled in Sufiield, this county, when he turned his 
attention to farming, and there they remained until their death. Russell 
Meacham engaged in the clothing trade when the country was new, and there was 
no money current, in order to provide for a large family. He died in 1852; his 
widow died in 1861. Our subject was married February 14, 1853, to Lucy A. 
Coburn, born in Brimfield Township, Portage Co., Ohio, Marcji 18, 1829, 
daughter of David and Nancy Coburn, natives of Massachusetts, and who came 
to Ohio, and died in this county. To Mr. and Mrs. Meacham have been born 
ten children: Milford O. (deceased), Myra A., Ira C, Joy E. , Ura D., lona 



800 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

A., Eva A., Van F., Melvin C. and Louela M. Our subject has been engaged 
in farming the greater part of his life, and now owns 202 acres of land in Ran- 
dolph Township, this county, on which he has a beautiful residence, fine large 
barn and other necessary outbuildings. He has had some experience in the 
woods, having had to clear off the timber before he could get a crop in. Mr. 
Meacham has met with good success; has been Township Trustee several times 
and has filled other offices. 

REV. JOSEPH MERIAM, retired minister, Randolph, was born at Graf- 
ton, Worcester Co., Mass., October 15, 1797, and is a son of Timothy and 
Sarah Meriam, natives of Massachusetts, where they remained until their 
death. Timothy Meriam depai'ted this life December 11, 1829, his widow 
July 29, 1835. Joseph Meriam, a graduate of Andover Theological Seminary, 
emigrated to Virginia as a missionary in 1822. In the spring of 1823 he 
came to Ohio and engaged in missionai'y work in the new counties until Sep- 
tember of the same year, at which time he came by invitation to Randolph, 
this county, and was installed Congregational minister January 7, 1824, where 
lie has since remained. He was half of the time for twelve years engaged as 
pastor at both Randolph and Rootstown, since that time he has been pas- 
tor at Randolph, and also supplied different places at different times. He 
is now retired, but still retains the relationship of pastor of the Congrega- 
tional Church, the desk being tilled by stated supplies from year to year. Our 
subject was united in marriage, January 25, 1826, with Emiline Bidwell, born 
in Farmington, Conn., July 13, 1800, daughter of William and Mary Bidwell, 
who departed this life at Madison, Lake Co., Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Meriam are 
parents of five children, three of whom are now living: Joseph B., engaged in 
business at Cleveland, Ohio; Emiline Antoinette, wife of Dr. E. D. Burton, 
also in Cleveland, Ohio; and Theodore F., who resides in Randolph, this 
county. The deceased are William M. and Elizabeth. Our subject owns a 
beautiful residence and ten acres of land in this township. He and his good 
wife are faithful and consistent members of the Congregational Church, and 
are loved by all in the community in which they reside. 

SARAH MERRIMAN, Randolph, is the widow of E. R. Merriman, a son 
of Eliakim and Hannah Merriman, natives of Connecticut, who came to this 
county a great many years ago and there remained until their death. E. R. 
Merriman, the first white male child to see the light in Randolph Township, 
this county, was born April 23, 1807. He married, the first time, Julia Hall, 
who died in 1852, and by her had three children: Dwight R., born December 
14, 1835, died October 28, 1856; a daughter deceased in infancy; and Malitta, 
born February 28, 1844, now wife of Marvin Churchill. Mr. Merriman was 
next married, December 23, 1853, to Sarah Miller, born in Ashland County, 
Ohio, October 26, 1823, daughter of Henry and Elizabeth Harper. (Her first 
husband's name was Miller, by whom she has one son living — Lewis Miller, 
born November 22, 1849.) Mr. Harper died in 1870; his widow still sur- 
vives him. Mr. and Mrs. Merriman were the parents of three children, of 
whom survive Julia L., born November 25, 1854, wife of Sanford Tick- 
ner; Albert R., born September 8, 1857; and Melvin E., born May 16, 1861. 
E. R. Merriman was a farmer through life, and owned 105 acres of land at the 
iime of his death, which occurred April 9, 1879. His family lost a kind father 
and a good husband. 

HENRY MERRIMAN was born in Randolph, February 26, 1838; son of 
Otis and Phebe Merriman, natives of Ohio. He has engaged in farming, and 
owns sixty acres of land. 

W. E. MERRIMAN, salesman, Randolph, was born in Randolph, Ohio, 
August 26, 1840, the eldest son of Levi and Jane A. Merriman, the former 



EANDOLPH TOWNSHIP. 801 

born in Randolph Township, December 10, 1811, the latter born in Augusta, 
N. Y. , June 4, 1818, daughter of Norman and Sarah Humphrey. Norman 
Humphrey was born in Connecticut in 1793; his wife in New York, September 
10, 1797. They were married February 28, 1815, and removed to Portage 
County, Ohio, in January, 1819, where they remained until his death, January 
3, 1822. Mrs. Humphrey afterward, January 25, 1827, married Dr. Rnfus 
Belding, who died in Randolph, this county, April 8, 1854, and his widow died 
in Ravenna, Ohio, June 2, 1881. Levi Merriman was a son of Maj. Isaac and 
Esther Merriman, natives of Connecticut, who removed to this county in ]805, 
where they remained until their death. Mrs. Merriman died in 1834, and 
Maj. Merriman then married Harriet Force, who is still living in Pennsylvania. 
He died in June, 1842. Levi Merriman was married, May, 1838, to Jane A. 
Humphrey, and this union was blessed with three children, of whom our sub- 
ject, Wilfred E., is the only one now living. The deceased are Sarah D., born 
May 23, 1845, died October 1, 1862, and Edward F., born January 27, 1854, 
died September 29, 1862. Levi Merriman and wife were members of the Dis- 
ciples Church for fifty years. He died July 26, 1884, and his widow now 
resides with our subject in Randolph, this county. In 1853 our subject had 
the misfortvine to break his left leg, from which injury he never fully recov- 
ered. In May, 1857, the limb was amputated midway between the ankle and 
knee, and one week later, a second operation becoming necessary, it was 
amputated above the knee. Mr. Merriman filled the office of Postmaster 
in his native village in 1870 and 1871. For thirteen years he was Township 
Treasurer; in 1880 Census Enumerator. 

C. B. NEEDHAM, farmer and stock-dealer. P. O. Atwater, was born in 
Massachusetts, November 12, 1836; son of Alfred and Mary Needham, natives 
of that State, former born August 2, 1802, latter October 11, 1803. They came 
to this county June 1, 1837, where they settled and remained until Mrs. Need- 
ham's death, January 7, 1863. Alfred Needham survives her and now enjoys 
the best of health. Our subject was twice married, on first occasion, Decem- 
ber 29, 1859, to Maria E. Weldy, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Weldy, of 
Atwater, and by this union was born one child — Charlie W., born October 21, 
1860, died October 16. 1861. Mrs. Weldy dying September 11, 1861, at the 
age of nineteen years and six months, our subject married, March 14, 1863, 
Lucy M. Grant, born in Randolph Township, this county, May 2, 1840, daugh- 
ter of William and Miranda Grant. Mr. Grant was born in Vermont, Decem- 
ber 30, 1803, his wife in New York, December 8, 1815, and they came to this 
county, remaining until her death, Februaiy 1, 1880. Mr. Grant is still living 
and enjoys good health. Mr. and Mrs. C. B. Needham have two children: 
Fred G. and Ida M. Our subject spent the earlier part of his life in mercan- 
tile biTsiness at Atwater, Ohio, but for the last twenty years he has been 
engaged in farming and stock-raising. He and his family own 280 acres of 
improved land. 

SIMON PERKI^^S, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in this county, 
November 17, 1834, a son of David and Electa Perkins, the former a native of 
Vermont, the latter of Massachusetts. David Perkins came to Ohio aboufc 
1814; his wife some years later. They were married in Summit County, Ohio, 
where they remained a number of years, thence came to this county, and here 
remained until their death. The father, who was a stone-mason by trade, died 
March 12, 1864; the mother in 1878. October 1, 1854, our subject was married 
to Mary Ann W. Rogers, born in Randolph Township, this county, June 6, 
1835, daughter of Williani and Minerva Rogers, natives of Connecticiit and 
Pennsylvania respectively, but residents of this county, where they died, former 



802 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

in 1849, latter in 1859. Mr. and Mrs. Perkins are the parents of three chil- 
dren: David S., born January 8, 1856, and now a practicing physician in 
Cleveland, Ohio; Electa B., born January 5, 1859, wife of C. B. Ladd; and 
Maude S., born July 24, 1868, residing with her parents. Our subject has 
engaged in farming and owns 127 acres in Randolph Township. He is a mem- 
ber of the I. O. O. F. and G. A. R., and is a F. & A. M. He and his wife are 
members of the Methodist Church. He has filled the office of Trustee several 
years. In the war of the Rebellion he was commissioned Second Lieutenant 
of an infantry company (Randolph Guards), May 11, 1861, and December 14, 
following, was commissioned Captain of same company, but so many of this 
company enlisted into the United States Regular Army that it was disbanded. 
Our subject was next elected Captain of Company Gr, Third Regiment Ohio 
Militia, in Portage County, July 4, 1863; then he joined the United States 
service as Recruiting Lieutenant, January 13, 1865; was mustered out as Cap- 
tain of Company H, One Hundred and Eighty- fourth Regiment, Ohio Volun- 
teer Infantry, February 21, 1865. Mr. and Mrs. Perkins and family reside in 
this township, where they have a pleasant and beautiful home. 

JOSEPH PRICE, physician and surgeon, Randolph, was born in Stark 
County, Ohio, October 15, 1823, son of Nathan and Abigail Price, the former 
of Welsh and the latter of English origin, both born in Pennsylvania, and 
who moved to Stark County, Ohio, where they remained until their death, 
Nathan Price dying August, 1863, and his widow in August, 1864. Our sub- 
ject was married, October 25, 1843, to Cynthia M. Underwood, born February 
15, 1827, in New Baltimore, Ohio, daughter of Dr. W. and Rachel Under- 
wood (both deceased). To the Doctor and wife have been born four children, 
two sons and two daughters: Emmet W., a practicing physician and surgeon 
in Kent, Ohio; Louisa P., wife of Julius Dunbar, of Youngstown, Ohio; Mary 
E. and Benjamin F. W. Our subject engaged in tailoring until he was twen- 
ty-two years of age, after which he read medicine with his father- in-law in 
New Baltimore, Ohio, and graduated in the regular school of medicine, at 
Starling Medical College, Columbus, Ohio, in the spring of 1851. He is a 
member of Portage County Medical Society, Northeastern Medical Society, as 
well as the Ohio State Society. He was a member of the School Board for 
eighteen years. The Doctor owns 128 acres of land with a line residence, 
where he and his family reside. 

HENRY K. REDFIELD, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born on the farm 
he now owns, March 29, 1822; son of Samuel and Margaret Redfield, natives 
of Connecticut, who came to Ohio in IS 10, settling in this county and here 
remaining until their death. Samuel Redfield died in 1876, his wife in 1874. 
Our subject was married, March 25, 1852, to May Donnell, a daughter of John 
and Myra Donnell, and born in Atwater, this county. This union has been 
blessed with five children, three of whom survive: Frank D., Mary H. and 
Emma J. Ida J. and Lillie A. are deceased. Mr. Redfield was raised on a 
farm, has been engaged in agriculture through life successfully, and owns 132 
acres of improved land. He acquired a good common school education; has filled 
the office of Assessor of Randolph Township; is a member of the Secret Police. 
Our subject's father walked from Connecticut to Ohio (carrying a large bundle 
on his back) and arrived in 1810. He was the first man to volunteer in the war 
of 1812 and was taken prisoner at Maiden upon Hull's svirrender. 

FREDERICK RIEDINGER, farmer and stock-dealer, P. O. Randolph, 
was born in Randolph Township, this county, November 16, 1840, a son of 
George P. and Susan Riedinger, natives of Baden, Germany, who came to 
America in 1840. They settled in this county, where they remained until their 



RANDOLPH TOWNSHIP. 803 

death. The father died in 1864; the mother in 1874. Our subject was married, 
November 12, 1863, to Louisa Ackerman, born in Marlboro Township, Stark 
Co., Ohio, March 18, 1843, a daughter of Matthias and Henrietta Ackerman, 
natives of Wurtemberg, Germany, who immigrated to Stark County, Ohio, 
and afterward removed to Crawford County, where they remained until their 
death, the mother dying in December, 1868, the father in February, 1880. 
Mr. and Mrs. Riedinger had live children, four of whom are now living: George 
F., born September 3, 1864; Mary L., born April 15, 1866; Henry W., born 
April 8, 1868, and Hattie S., born December 16, 1872. An infant is deceased. 
Our subject is a farmer and. stock-dealer, and owns 128 acres of improved land. 
He is a F. & A. M. ; has filled the office of To.wnship Trustee and that of 
Assessor for four years with credit to himself and to the satisfaction of his 
constituents. 

PETER RIEDINGER, Jr., farmer, P.O. Randolph, was born in Randolph 
Township, this county, AugvTst 1, 1850, son of George P. and Susan Riedinger, 
natives of Baden, Germany, who came to this county in 1840, and remained 
until their death, the former dying in 1864, the latter in 1874. Our subject 
was united in marriage, December 18, 1877, with Emma Weaver, born in 
Stark County, Ohio, September 3, 1857, daughter of George and Charlotte 
Weaver, natives of Germany, and who immigrated to Stark County, Ohio, 
where they have resided ever since. To Mr. and Mrs. Riedinger have been 
born five children, four now living: Elton E., born September 10, 1878: Ivin 
E., born September 11, 1879; Merle D., born January 11, 1883, and Ruth 
Emma, born January 6, 1885. Claudius W., born September 24, 1880, is 
deceased. Our subject, who is a farmer by occupation, owns 124 acres of good 
land. He has tilled the office of Trustee of the township two years. He and 
his wife are members of the Reformed Church. 

VOLNEY ROGERS, farmer and stock-dealer, P. O. Randolph, was born 
in Randolph Township, Portage Co., Ohio, August 1, 1837, son of William 
and Minerva Rogers, former a native of Connecticut, latter of Pennsylvania, 
and who settled in this county, where they remained until their death in 1850 
and 1857 respectively. Our subject was united in marriage, April 23, 1859, 
with Mary E. Perkins, born in Suffield Township, this county, February 10, 
1844, daughter of David and Electa Perkins, who died in this county. To Mr, 
and Mrs. Rogers have been born five children, three now living: Dennis E., 
born May 16, 1868; Nellie I, born September 9, 1880, and Ruth V., born 
February 9, 1884. Those deceased are Benjamin V., born January 31, 1860, 
died June 8, 1867, and Blanche A., born April 19, 1875, died June 15, 1882. 
Our subject has been engaged in farming and dealing in stock, and owns 130 
acres of good land. He enlisted in 1861 in Company I, One Hundred and 
Fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was mustered out June 22, 1864. Mr. 
Rogers, who went to school to James A. Garfield, and boarded with him one 
term, was also a teacher, and taught fifteen terms. 

JAMES SARIN, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Portage County, 
Ohio, August 26, 1829, son of Ephraim and Jerusha Sabin, the former a 
native of Dutchess County, N. Y., the latter of Vermont, and who were mar- 
ried in Randolph Township, this county, where they settled and died, the for- 
mer in 1872, the latter a few years later. Our subject was united in marriage, 
June 17, 1859, with Sarah E. Burdge, born in Pennsylvania in 1829, a daugh- 
ter of Moses and Elizabeth Burdge, both of whom died in this county. Mr. 
and Mrs. Sabin have had four children, three of whom are now living: Charlie 
C. , H. B. and Rena R. Buric P. is deceased. Our subject, who has been 
engaged in farming all his life, owns at present thirty acres of good land in 



804 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Kandolph Township. The family are members of the Disciples Church. Our 
subject is a member of the I. O. O. F. Ke has filled the office of Township 
Trustee at different times; has been a member of the Board of Education; was 
First Lieutenant during the late war of the Rebellion. Mr. Sabin has been 
very successful in life, and owns a neat residence where he and his family 
reside. 

HARVY SABIN, farmer, P. O. Rootstown, was born in Suffield Township, 
this county, September 21, 1834; son of Ephraim and Jerusha Sabin, the for- 
mer of whom was a native of New York, the latter of Vermont. They settled 
in this county at a very early day, and remained until their death, he dying 
May 12, 1870, and his widow May 2, 1874. Our subject was married 
December 27, 1861, to Mrs. Jane E. Moulton, born October 22, 1830, daugh- 
ter of Hiram and Sarah Lane. She was united in marriage the first time, 
July 4, 1849, with Warren Moulton, who was born April 13, 1827, died Jan- 
uary 23, 1854, son of Augustus and Sarah Moulton, and by this union has been 
born one child — Alice, born October 18, 1850, now the wife of Loring Hulbert. 
Our subject has been engaged in farming all his life, and owns eighty-six 
acres of improved land with comfortable residence and good out-buildings on 
the same. 

JACOB SCHMIEDEL, Jr., farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Ran- 
dolph Township, this county, July 28, 1845; son of Jacob and Mary C. 
Schmiedel, natives of Baden, Germany. They came to America in 1843, and 
settled and remained in this county. The mother died June 22, 1878; the 
father is still living, aged eighty-four years. Our subject was married March 
14. 1872, to Catharine Haag, born in Marlboro, Stark Co., Ohio, June 8, 
1851, daughter of Jacob and Barbara Haag. They were natives of Germany 
and immigrated to Stark County, Ohio, where they remained until their 
death. Mr. Schmiedel and wife are the parents of five children: Charlotte, 
Frank E., Lucette M., Albert W. and Mary E. Our subject is a farmer by 
occupation, and owns forty-eight acres of improved land. He and his wife are 
members of the German Reformed Church. He has filled the office of Town- 
ship Trustee to the entire satisfaction of his constituents. 

ADAM SCHULZ, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Baden, Germany, 
June 25, 1819; son of George and Margaret Schulz, who immigrated to Amer- 
ica in a very early day and settled in Randolph Township, this county, where 
they remained until death. Our subject was united in marriage December 26, 
1846, with Margaret Beisel, who was born in Germany June 24, 1822. Mr. 
and Mrs. Schulz are the parents of seven children, six of whom are now liv- 
ing: Eve, Adam, Elizabeth, Henry, Albert, William; Peter is deceased. Our 
subject has engaged in farming all his life and has been successful, now own- 
ing 127 acres of good land, mostly improved, on which he is building a fine 
residence. He and his wife are members of the German Reformed Church. 
He has filled the office of Trustee of his Township two years. 

JOHN SHEPLIN, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Germany, August 
7, 1825; son of Jacob and Fronie ShepJin, who remained in Germany until 
the death of the father in 1846, after which the mother immigrated to Ohio and 
lived in Canton for a few years; thence moved to Indiana, where she remained 
until her death. Our subject was married, the first time, in November, 1859, to 
Mary M. Hoover, born in Ohio. She died in Stark County, Ohio, August 27, 
1862, and Mr. Sheplin then married, November 10, 1864, Catharine Hiser, 
born in Stark County, Ohio, March 25, 1841, daughter of George and Rebecca 
Hiser, who died in that county. Mr. Sheplin is the father of four children: 
Lovina, William, Emma and Charles. He settled in this county in 1883; has 



RANDOLPH TOWNSHIP. 805 

been engaged in farming all his life, and owns fifty acres of improved land 
whereon he and his family reside. They are among the best citizens of the 
vicinity. 

LYDA A. SHURTLEFF, P. O. Randolph, was born in Connecticut, June 
7, 1804, daughter of Thaddeus and Lyda Andrews, natives of Connecticut, 
who came to this county when our subject was only four months old, and 
remained here till their death, which occurred in 1845 and 1843 respectively. 
Our subject was united in marriage October 3, 1822, with Harvy Shurtleff, 
born in Massachusetts, November 27, 1799, son of Asa and Mary Shurtleflf, 
natives of Massachusetts, the former of whom died in 1840, the latter several 
years afterward. Of the eight children born to Mr. and Mrs. Harvy Shurtleff 
only three are now living: Angeline M., Eveline M. and Lyda. Mr. Shurtleff 
was engaged in farming all his life, and owned about fifty-one acres of land 
at the time of his death, which occurred October 29, 1873. He was a member 
of the Congregational Church, as is also his widow, who is beloved by all who 
know her. 

A. L. SLABAUGH, retired farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Penn- 
sylvania, December 16, 1822, son of Christopher and Nancy Slabaugh, natives 
of Pennsylvania, who removed to Ohio and located in Columbiana County in 
1827, where they remained seven years, settling in this county in 1834, where 
they resided until their death. The former died April 10, 1848, the latter in 
July, 1865. On March 18, 1853, our subject was married to J. A. France, 
born in Stark County, Ohio, January 15, 1834, daughter of Henry and Eliz- 
abeth France, the former of whom died some years ago, his widow still resid- 
ing in this county. Mr. and Mrs. Slabaugh have six children, five of whom 
are now living: Warren H., Willard W., Watson E., Mary E. and Frank W. 
Ida F. is deceased. Our subject was engaged in farming early in life, but is 
now retired. He owns a beautiful residence, where he and his family reside. 
Mr. and Mrs. Slabaugh are members of the Disciples Church. He is a mem- 
ber of the Pioneer Association, and has filled the ofiice of Trustee of this 
Township. 

SOLOMON STALLSMITH, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Spring- 
field, Columbiana Co., Ohio, November 26, 1823, eon of John and Catharine 
StaJlsmith, the former a native of Adams County, and the latter of Hunting- 
don County, Penn. They came to Ohio and settled in Columbiana County, in 
1819, remaining there until 1832, when they removed to Randolph Township, 
this county, where they passed the balance of their days, she dying September 
27, 1846. After her death John Stallsmith married Marguerite Firestine, 
who died about 1874; he died November 3, 1879. Our subject was married 
November 22, 1846, to Rachel Cook, born in Portage County, Ohio, September 
23, 1824, daughter of David and Chloe Cook, natives of Wallingford, Conn., 
who came to this county and remained until their death, February 2, 1856, 
and February 2, 1879, respectively. To Mr. and Mrs. Stallsmith have been 
born five children, four of whom survive: Winfield S., born November 9, 
1847; Chloe L, born August 18, 1849; Olive L., born August 16, 1851, and 
Cora L., born March 13, 1865. John M., born July 6, 1861, died July 20, 
1866. Our subject, who has been engaged in farming all his life, owns thirty- 
nine acres of good land, where he and his family reside. He has been a mem- 
ber of the School Board for a number of years. 

ORSEMUS STANFORD, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Marietta, 
Ohio, August 25, 1814, son of Qliver and Olive Stanford, natives of Massa- 
chusetts, who came to Marietta, Ohio; from there moved to Trumbull County, 
thence to Stark County, where they remained seven years; came to Portage 



806 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

County in !1832, remaining until 1850; then removed to Wisconsin, whiere the 
father died in 1874; the mother died in Iowa in 1878. Our subject was mar- 
ried April 14, 1836, to Sarah Chittendon, born in this county, in November, 
1816, daughter of Almon and Gertrude Chittendon, both of whom died in 
this county. Mr. and Mrs. Stanford were parents of two children, one now 
living — Frank, who resides in this county. Van Vactor B. Stanford who was in 
the army three years, was killed by a premature discharge of his own gun 
in 1864. Our subject is a carpenter by trade, but for the past tweuty years 
has been engaged in farming. He owns ninety-seven acres of improved land; 
has filled the office of Trustee of his township. 

W. C. STANFORD, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Portage County, 
Ohio, April 11, 1849, son of Chauncey and Keturah B. Stanford, natives of 
Connecticut, and residents of Ravenna, Ohio. Our subject was united in mar- 
riage, December 25, 1876, with Flora C. Carver, born in Stark County, Ohio, 
December 18, 1856, a daughter of JohnF. and Lucinda M. Carver, the former 
a native of Pennsylvania, the latter of Ohio, and both still living. Mr. and 
Mrs. Stanford have two children: Vernon L., born December 2, 1877. and 
Blanche, born March 16, 1881. Our subject is a carpenter by trade, but has 
engaged in farming for the past three yeai's. His wife is a member of the 
Disciples Church. Mr. Stanford has met with good success, and he and wife 
are a very pleasant couple, highly respected in the community in which they 
live. 

GEN. WILLIAM STEDMAN (deceased) was born in Granville, Ohio, 
November 26, 1815. His father's family emigrated from Granville, Mass., to Gran- 
ville, Ohio, and were among the pioneers who founded the latter town. His 
early life was passed upon his father's farm, and when he was only twelve 
years old his father died. When about eighteen he entered the preparatory 
department at Hudson College, and thence went to Athens College for a regu- 
lar course, but was compelled to relinquish his purpose on account of ill health. 
In May, 1837, when in his twenty-second year, he married Elizabeth Elmore, 
of Randolph, and here he settled as a farmer. He also had an interest in some 
mercantile and manufacturing establishments. Mr. Stedman was among the 
first to embrace the anti- slavery sentiment of the times, and upon the organi- 
zation of the Republican party, he became one of its most active and influential 
members. In 1859 he was elected a Representative to the State Legislature, 
and again in 1865, and to the State Senate in 1868. At the breaking out of 
the war, he volunteered in the three months' service, and became Captain of 
Company F, Seventh Ohio. Returning from that service, he took a recruiting 
commission to raise men for the Sixth Ohio Cavalry. On October 21, 1861, 
he was commissioned a Major in that regiment; August 3, 1863, he was com- 
missioned Lieutenant-Colonel, and January 10, 1864, was promoted to Colonel. 
During his service with the Sixth Ohio Cavalry, Col. Stedman participated in the 
following engagements: Kelley's Ford, Va., Ely's Ford, Va., Stevensburg, Aldie, 
Middleburg, Upperville, in the actions of Monterey, Smithsburg, Hagerstown and 
Williamsport, Boonsboro, and in actions at Shepherdstown. He was also engaged 
in battle at Barber's Cross Roads, Va., skirmishing at Rapidan Station, Va., and at 
Auburn Hills. He was in action at Howe's Gap, Va., St. Mary's Church. Malvern 
Hill, Va., Petersburg, Boydtown Road, Va., and in all the marches and actions 
in which the Second Cavalry Division was engaged from the Rappahannock 
to Westminster, Md. The Colonel was also in other engagements. For meri- 
torious services he was commissioned Brevet Brigadier-General of Volunteers, 
March 13, 1865. Having passed through forty months of military service, 
and participated in numerous engagements, he returned home. He died of 



RANDOLPH TOWNSHIP. 807 

yellow fever at SaBtiago De Cuba, July 6, 1869, to which place he had been 
sent as Consul, under the appointment of President Grant, received in April 
previous. 

ELSON TICKNER, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Connecticut, 
May 26, 1804, son of John and Ruth Tickner, the former a native of Con- 
necticut, the latter of Germany. They removed to Ohio in October, 1810, set- 
tled in Portage County and here remained until their death, October 10, 1819, 
and November 23, 1857, respectively. Our subject, who has engaged in farming 
all his life, owns about eighty-nine acres of good land in Randolph Township. 
He never attended school for more than two weeks at a time, but has been a 
successful business man. Mr. Tickner was married, April 11, 1835, to Mary 
Austin, born September 11, 1817, daughter of Anthony and Marrena Austin 
(both deceased), and accompanied her parents to Ohio, in her infancy. Mr. and 
Mrs. Tickner have three children: Elizabeth, wife of William Bowers ; San- 
ford, who is married : and Laura, widow of William France. Our subject and 
wife are members of the Disciples Church. 

JOHN TRAVES, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Germany, March 
17, 1825; son of Matthias and Elizabeth Traves, who settled in this county in 
1839, where they lived and died, the former in April, 1883, the latter in 1857. Our 
subject was married May 23, 1850, to Mary Knapp, born in Germany May 13, 
1830, daughter of John and Elizabeth Knapp, the former still living, the lat- 
ter deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Traves are the parents of five boys and two girls: 
John, Mary, Henry, Elizabeth and Peter, now living; Frank and Lewis died 
August 17, 1874. Our subject has been engaged in farming all his life and 
has met with good success, owning now 150 acres of improved land. He has 
tilled the office of Trustee of Sufiield Township two years. He and his family 
are members of the Catholic Church. 

S. B. TRESCOTT, traveling salesman, P. O. Randolph, was born near 
Alliance, Stark Co., Ohio, January 26, 1842; son of Clark and Ann Trescott, 
who resided in Stark County, Ohio, until Mrs. Trescott's death, when our sub- 
ject was quite young. Mr. Trescott then married Rachel McConnell, who 
also is deceased, and he afterward married Eliza Williamson, who is still liv- 
ing. Mr. and Mrs. Trescott reside near Alliance, Ohio. Our subject was 
married September 15, 1864, to Elizabeth Crawford, born in Pennsylvania 
August 10, 1842, daughter of John and Catherine Crawford, both deceased. 
To Mr. and Mrs. Trescott have been born six children: Blanche, born Septem- 
ber 6, 1865; Josephine, born November 29, 1867; Edward O., born April 12, 
1870; Walter S. and Grace, born May 14, 1873, and Bessie, born September 
22, 1880. Our subject has been engaged in commercial business all his life, 
and has been a traveling salesman for twenty-three years; he is now in the 
line of boots and shoes. Mr. and Mrs. Trescott are members of the Disciples 
Church. Mr. Trescott acquired a good common school education. He owns 
sixty two acres of land and a fine dwelling where he and his family reside. 

JOHN UNGER, farmer, P. O. Atwater, was born in Columbiana County, 
Ohio, January 21, 1810; son of Jacob and Mary Unger, who departed this life 
a great many years ago in Columbiana County, Ohio. Our subject was united 
in marriage November 1, 1832, with Elizabeth Palmer, the daughter of Ste- 
phen and Mary Palmer, who died in Columbiana County, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. 
Unger are the parents of eight children, of whom four survive: Alpheus, 
Simeon, Sylvanus and John J. The deceased are Cyrus, Eli, Mary A. and 
Caroline. Mr. Unger is a cooper by trade, but has engaged in farming for a 
great many years. Himself and wife are members of the Reformed Church. 
He owns about ninety-seven and one-third acres of mostly improved land in Ran- 



808 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

dolph Township, where he and his family reside. Mr. and Mrs. Unger, who 
are among the early settlers of Randolph Township, are very highly respected 
by the community in which they live. Mr. Unger has met svith fair success 
through life. 

ALONZO V. AVHITE, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born on the farm 
where he now resides in Randolph Township, this county, October 3, 1838, a 
son of Horace and Caroline M. AVhite, natives of Connecticut, and who immi- 
grated to Ohio in 1834, locating in this county, where they remained until 
their death. The father died in December, 1881, the mother in December, 
1883. Our subject was married January 9, 1862, to Susan HoHbaugh, born 
in Pennsylvania October 19, 1838, daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth HoH- 
baugh, both deceased. Mr. and Mrs. White are the parents of three children: 
Hattie E., born September 30, 1801; Albert R., born September 1, 1870; and 
Stella M. , boi'n September 25, 1874. Mrs. White is a member of the Disci- 
ples Church. Our subject is a carpenter by trade, but has been engaged in 
farming for the last five years. He owns seventy acres of improved land on 
which there is a beautiful residence where he and his family reside. He 
served in the late war of the Rebellion in Company G, Seventh Ohio Volun- 
teer Infantry. Mr. White has been very successful through life. 

DOMINICK WISE, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Europe, Septem- 
ber 24, 1832, son of Jacob and Magdalene Wise, who came to America and 
settled in Ohio, where they remained until their death. Our subject was mar- 
ried (the first time) in 1856 to Maria Earhart, who died October 12, 1870, after 
which, in 1872, he was married to Clara Winisheimer, born in Germany, Octo- 
ber 10, 1839, daughter of Balser and Jacob Winisheimer. Our subject 
is the father of eight children: John C, Louise M., David L. and Joseph W. 
by his first wife, and Mary E., Dominick A., Stephen H. and Magdalene by 
his second wife. Mr. Wise is a cooper by trade, but has engaged in farming 
for several years, and owns sixty-five acres of improved land on which he and 
his family reside. He is a man that takes great interest in his family, and his 
word is as good as his note. Himself and family are members of the Catholic 
Church. Mr. Wise's second wife died October 9, 1884. 

JOHN J. WISE, farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Germany Septem- 
ber 12, 1837, son of Jacob and Magdalene Wise, who immigrated to Ohio in 
1840, settling in Lawrence Township, Stark County, thence moving to Lake 
Township, where they remained until the father's death in 1865. Three years 
later the family came to Sufiield Township, this county, where the mother died 
in 1873. Our subject was married January 25, 1862, to Mary Knapp, born in 
Randolph Township, this county, September 8, 1842, daughter of John and 
Elizabeth Knapp, latter deceased in 1871. Mr. Knapp is still living, aged 
about eighty three years. Mr. and Mrs. Wise are the parents of nine children, 
six of whom survive: Clara, Emma, William, John, Bertha and Clamenc. 
The deceased are Charlie, Rosie and Charlie. Our subject, who has been 
engaged in farming all his life, owns 154 acres of improved land. He is a 
member of the Agricultural Board of Randolph. He and his family are mem- 
bers of the Catholic Church. 

JACOB YARIAN, Sr., farmer, P. O. Randolph, was born in Columbiana 
County, Ohio, December 24, 1812, son of Conrad and Eva Yarian, natives of 
Pennsylvania, of Westmoreland and Lancaster Counties, respectively, and who 
settled in Columbiana County, Ohio, in 1803, remaining there until their 
death. Our subject was married April 2, 1835, to Elizabeth Switzer, born in 
Columbiana County, Ohio, September 24, 1815, daughter of Jacob and Mary 
C. Switzer, natives of Pennsylvauia, who located in Columbiana County,. 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. , 809 

where they died. Mr. and Mrs. Yarian are parents of eleven children, nine 
of whom are now living, all married and doing for*themselves: Susanna (wife 
of William Walker), Jonathan, Eli, Benjamin, David, Jacob, Mary C, Eva 
and Kebecca. The deceased are Rebecca (twin sister of Eebecca living) and 
Daniel (an infant). Mr. Yarian, who has engaged in farming all his life, now 
owns ninety-seven acres whereon he and his family reside, besides forty-five 
acres elsewhere. He and his wife are members of the Disciples Church. He 
has been a member of the Board of Education. 

WILLIAM YOUNGMAN, farmer and cooper, P. O. Randolph, was born 
in HoUis, Hillsboro Co., N. H., February 23, 1821, son of Ebenezer and 
Thankful Youngman, natives of New Hampshire, who came to this county in 
1835, where they settled and remained until their death. On April 2, 1844, 
our subject was married to Sarah J. Dumars, born April 2, 1822, a daughter 
of Timothy and Sarah Dumars. Mr. Dumars was of French descent, although 
born in Ireland, while Sarah, his wife, was born in Scotland. They located 
in Pennsylvania, where they remained until their death. To Mr. and Mrs. 
Youngman have been born three children: Francis A., born September 8, 1846; 
Helen E. , born November 19, 1852; and Forest D., born December 24, 1863. 
Our subject is a cooper by trade, but is also engaged in agriculture, and owns 
a nice little farm where he and his family reside. Himself and wife are mem- 
bers of the Congregational Church. They are a pleasant and agreeable couple. 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 



DR. A. W. ALCORN, Ravenna, was born on the 23d day of May, A. D. 
1835. He was the seventh of eight children, six of whom were boys. His 
father was of Scotch-Irish, and his mother of English and German descent. 
His parents were farmers, and the first and only farm they owned they cleared 
up from wild woods in Armstrong County, Penn. The trees, saplings and 
brush had to be cut down and grubbed out to make room for the first log-cabin. 
His parents were Old School Presbyterians, and were one of three families who 
met together for social prayer, from which grew the Concord Presbyterian 
Church, about one mile from his father's farm. Before the church building 
was secured his father and mother would attend church at Glade Run, a dis- 
tance of seven miles, and most of this distance was made along a path 
through the woods; but any difficulty in the way was alleviated by their going 
on foot. Sometimes a babe was carried in their arms so that the distance need 
not be made in haste. On this farm the Doctor began his education. The 
school year in his boyhood consisted of three months in the winter. This was 
improved. At this school his second, third and fourth reader was the New 
Testament, and the fifth and sixth reader was the Bible or Old Testament. 
When he was eighteen years old, at the urgent solicitation of an older brother. 
Dr. J. P. Alcorn (now deceased), who had left the farm and by his own energy 
and self-support had graduated at one of the best medical colleges in the 
United States, he left home for the first time to enter the Glade Run (Penn.) 
Academy in 1853; the next year he entered the Eldersridge (Indiana County, 
Penn. ) Academy. This institution was the creation of Rev. Alexander Don- 
aldson, D. D., a noted educator of young men in western Pennsylvania, who, 
at an old age, is still Principal of the academy. In this academy the Doctor 



810 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

was fitted for the junior class in college. At this time his health broke down 
and he was obliged to leave school. After a few months' rest he entered the 
office of his brother, who had built up a large practice in Ravenna, Ohio, for 
the purpose of studying medicine. His medical education was secured at Jef- 
ferson Medical College, Philadelphia, Penn. , and the Michigan University, 
Ann Arbor, Mich. He had the benefit of the private and practical instruc- 
tions of his brother for five years. In 1SG4 he served four months in the 
Union Army, was a "squirrel hunter," and volunteered his services at the 
battle of Gettysburg for the care of the sick and wounded. He married Miss 
Christina, eldest daughter of John and Elizabeth Fletcher, of Eavenna, Ohio, 
February 20, 1884. He is a member of the Congregational Church. He first 
united with the Presbyterian Church in 1852. He is a member of the Board 
of Education, and has served as such for nine years. He is in hearty sympa- 
thy with all reform measures that tend to lift men up to a sober and religious 
life. His chief desire is to be worthy the name of physician and Christian. 
He never used tobacco in any form, nor alcoholic drinks as a beverage. He 
considers the habitual use of tobacco and ardent spirits as the chief obstacles 
in the way to temporal and spiritual prosperity. 

ANDKUS T. BALDWIN, hardware merchant, Ravenna, was born Sep- 
tember 10, 1820, in Palmyra, this county, where his father, Alva Baldwin, now 
resides. He commenced traveling at eleven years of age, and spent about 
thirty-five years visiting nearly all the Southern and Western States. Novem- 
ber 5. 1839, he married Miss Samantba Daniels, a native of Massachusetts. 
She died February 2, 1861. Their son, Alva V., was a graduate of" the Med- 
ical College at Cleveland, Ohio, and practiced his chosen profession, medicine, 
in that city six years, after which he returned to Palmyra, where he died Feb- 
ruary 17, 1881. He married Miss Eliza Merwin, and left three children: Ida 
S., Gustave W. and Clayton R. Our subject, June 17, 1873, next married 
Mrs. Ella Baldwin, widow of Marquis Baldwin and daughter of Bazaleel 01m- 
stead, of Palmyra, this county, and to this union were born two children: John 
D. and Minnie S. Mr. Baldwin was engaged in the hardware business in 
Medina, Ohio, in 1873-74, and then established in Ravenna. In addition to 
his business he owns a finely improved farm of 138 acres in Palmyra Town- 
ship, this county. 

DARIUS L. BALDWIN, manufacturer, Ravenna, was born Februaiy 6, 

1828, in Atwater Township, this county, where his parents, Ransom and 
Worthy Baldwin, now reside. Our subject was brought up on his father's 
farm and began working at the carpenter's trade while a young man, and this 
he followed continuously until 1878. He was married. October 26, 1853, to 
Miss Letitia Ferrell, a native of Monongahela County, Va., born October 15, 

1829, and who came to this county in 1850. Our subject and wife settled in 
Ravenna, Ohio, immediately after their marriage. Their children are Charles 
R. ; Aurelia O., wife of H. Eatinger; Hattie W. ; and Minnie T. In March, 
1879, Mr. Baldwin acd his son purchased the planing-mill which they now 
operate under the firm name of D. L. Baldwin & Son. They do a large busi- 
ness as a custom mill, supplying the home market for planing and general 
ornamental work. They also do an extensive business in contracting and 
building houses and public structures. Mr. and Mrs. Baldwin are adherents 
of the Disciples Church. He cast his first Presidential vote for Gen. Winfield 
Scott as a Whig, and has ever since been a stanch Republican. 

HARMON BATTERSON, farmer, P. O. Ravenna, was born March 29, 1819, 
in Ravenna Township, this county. His father, William Batterson, of Litch- 
field County, Conn., married Miss Matilda lies, and moved to this county 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 811 

about 1816. Soon after the grandfather, William Batterson, Sr. , came, and he 
and his wife resided here until their death. Harmon's mother died when he 
was about seven years of age, and his father married a second time and moved 
to "Williams County, Ohio, where he lived the remainder of his days. William 
Batterson, our subject's father, was the pioneer cooper of Ravenna, and 
people came far and near to him for barrels, tubs, pails, well buckets, 
and gallon bottles for carrying water and whisky in. Whisky stills were 
numerous at that time, and a good deal of cooper work was needed. Our subject 
lived for a time with a Rev. Ebenezer Williams, then with Perry and Ethan A. 
Babcock, near Ravenna, and after he was fourteen years of age he worked by 
the month summers, and did chores nights and mornings for his board win- 
ters, going also to school; in fact, Mr. Batterson avers, he always found plenty 
of good folks to take him into their families to live in return for what they 
could get out of him. At twenty -two years of age he learned the cooper's trade, 
which he followed for many years. He married, October 6, 1847, Miss Mary 
Hull, born in Edinburg Township, this county, March 27, 1820. Her parents, 
Gilbert and Abigail (Harris) Hull, of Ontario County, N. Y., came to this 
county in 1819, and settled in Edinburg Township same year, where they 
resided until his death, which occurred December 16, 1880, at the age of 
eighty- six. Mr. Gilbert was a skillful mechanic. He erected many of the 
buildings in that township. His widow, who is eighty-four years of age, 
resides with her daughter, Mrs. Batterson. To Mr. and Mrs. Batterson have 
been born three children: Ellen A., Mrs. Emily M. Robinson and Clinton R. 
Our subject and wife paid about a ten months' visit to Williams County, Ohio, 
but with the exception of that trip have always resided in Ravenna Township. 
About 1853 they purchased the place where they now live, and where they 
own a fine farm of seventy-four and a half acres, besides another farm of forty 
acres in the same township. Mr. Batterson is a life-long Democrat. 

HORACE Y. BEEBE, retired, Ravenna, was born in Middletown, Conn., 
September 14, 1816; son of Oliver D. and Phebe H. (Holt) Beebe. Our sub- 
ject came to Ohio in 1834, locating at Cuyahoga Falls; two years later he 
removed to this county, and for some two years he was Deputy Clerk under 
George Kirkum, and for seven years was with William Coolman, in the Clerk's 
office, as Deputy. In 1845 he was appointed Clerk of the Courts of Common 
Pleas and Supreme Com't, serving until 1852. The following year he 
accepted the position of Cashier in the banking house of Robinson, King & Co., 
and so remained until succeeded by his son, William H., present Cashier of the 
Second National Bank. In 1860 he was elected a Delegate to the Republican 
Convention which nominated Abraham Lincoln, and in 1862 was by the latter 
appointed Assessor of the Nineteenth Congressional District. Later he was 
appointed Provost-Marshal of this county, in which capacity he served during 
the war. Our subject was on intimate terms with President Garfield and 
other distinguished Republicans. Upon his resignation as Cashier and 
Bookkeeper of the Diamond Glass Company (which position he held some 
sixteen years), Mr. Beebe retired permanently from active business. He 
was twice married, first in April, 1838, to Augusta, daughter of William Cool- 
man, who died June 15, 1879. leaving two children: Mary B. and William 
H. , both now living. Our subject then married, in 1881, Mrs. Hannah D. 
Wells, widow of Benjamin J. Wells, of Ravenna. Mr. Beebe is a Republican 
in. politics. Since the organization of the Universalist Church, he has been 
connected financially with its growth. In June, 1883 he was appointed by 
the Commissioners of the county a Director of the County Infirmary, to fill 
the vacancy occasioned by the death of Capt. F. W. Coffin, and in the fall of 
the same year he was elected a Director, which office he now holds. 



812 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

HENRY BEECHER (deceased) was born in Shalersville Township, this 
county, September 18, 1817; son of the well-known pioneers, Sylvester and 
Betsey Beecher, and the eldest of their twelve children. Our subject remained 
on his father's farm until 1842, when he engaged in mercantile business. 
He was in partnership with A. V. Horr until 1816, in which year he established 
himself in Garrettsville, this county, where he remained nineteen years, hav- 
ing as a partner, during the last ten years of that period, his brother Samuel S. 
At the death of his father in December, 1855, our subject succeeded him as 
Director of the Portage County branch of the State Bank of Ohio, holding 
the position until the bank was closed. He was prominent in the management 
of the First National Bank of Ravenna from the time of its organization, and 
was mainly influential in the erection of the Etna Block in Ravenna. He was 
actively identified with many other public and private enterprises which have 
contributed to the building up of the interests of Ravenna City and Portage 
County generally. Mr. Beecher was married, September 21, 1857, to Miss 
Laura, daughter of N. D. Clark, Esq., of Ravenna. She died March 12, 1858, 
and our subject was afterward united in marriage, July 23, 1861, with Miss 
Rachel, daughter of Maj. John and Jane (Wilson) Shannon, of Youngstown, 
Ohio, where she was born October 10, 1835. She completed her education 
with a three years' course under the instruction of the late President James A. 
Garfield at Hiram College. Mrs. Beecher was successfully engaged in teach- 
ing in the Union School of Ravenna two years previous to her marriage. Mr. 
Beecher departed this life April 16, 1870. His loss was deeply mourned by a 
large circle of friends won by his generosity and uniform kindness. 

C. L. BELDEN, M. D., Ravenna, was born August 23. 1818, in West 
Farmington, Trumbull Co., Ohio, where his parents, Harvey and Martha Belden, 
were among the earliest pioneers. Our subject received his education in the 
academy at Farmington, Ohio, and attended medical lectures at the Eclectic 
Medical College, Philadelphia, Penn., where he graduated in 1859. He prac- 
ticed his chosen profession at West Farmington until 1 802, at Chardon, Geauga 
Co., Ohio, until 1871, and at Braceville, Trumbull Co., Ohio, until 1876, and 
then located in Ravenna. Here he is recognized as a scientific physician and 
famed for his uniform success in combating diseases. September 2, 1839, 
Dr. Belden married Sarah L. Brown, of Farmington, Ohio, born in Warren, 
Trumbull Co., Ohio, who bore him four children, three of whom survive her: 
Mrs. Elizabeth Pierce, Mrs. Emily Skeels, and Mrs. Abbie W. Thomas. Little 
Corwin met his death by accident when less than two years old. Personally 
the Doctor is rather robust, socially a genial companion. By his courteous 
bearing and skill in his profession he has succeeded in building up a fine prac- 
tice. In matters of religion our subject entertains liberal views; in politics 
he is a Democrat. Mrs. Belden died March 13, 1885, after an illness of fifty- 
one days, during which she suffered more than pen can write. She was a 
whole-souled worker at home and in the neighborhood, and was a great bene- 
factress to the poor and needy. She had a singular presentiment of her demise, 
even months in advance, and when the time came she faced death with cour- 
age and left those nearest and dearest to her, expressing to them the sentiment 
of her life, "Kind words can never die." 

PHILO BIERCE, County Recorder, Ravenna, son of Zenas S. and Lucinda 
(Pinney) Bierce, was born in Stark County, Ohio, in 1844. His father, a 
native of Connecticvit, was a pioneer men^hant of Stark County, subsequently 
was engaged in the manufacture of cheese boxes, and at the close of his life 
was book-keeper at Windham Center; he also served as Township Clerk for 
many years. He died in the sixty-second year of his age, the father of follow- 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 813 

ing children, all of whom are living: Ellen, wife of M. T. Hill, in Nevada, 
Mo. ; Alice, widow of W. Waters; and Myra, wife of W. S. Brush, in Batavia, 
111. Our subject learned the carpenter's trade, and in 1861 enlisted in Company 
A, First Ohio Light Ai'tillery. He was struck by a shell at the siege of Knox- 
ville, Tenn., which carried oflf his left arm near the elbow and his left leg 
below the knee. He was taken to the Field Hospital, and in November trans- 
f en-ed to Chattanooga Hospital, where he remained uutil able to journey to the 
Cleveland, Ohio, Hospital, where he fully recovered and received an honorable 
discharge in August, 1864 He afterward learned and followed telegraphy 
until his hearing failed, when he turned his attention to obtaining further edu- 
cation. In 1872 he joined a colony of ex-soldiei's and went to Nebraska, tak- 
ing up a soldier's homestead claim in Hall County, which he still owns. After 
remaining there some years he removed to Milwaukee, Wis., and conducted a 
restaurant until 1876, when he returned to Ravenna, this county, and in the 
fall of the same year was elected County Recorder. He is now serving his 
third term. He was married in October, 1879, to Miss Ellen, daughter of 
Miles Whitney, of this county, and has one child — Amber. Mr. Bierce is a 
member of Encampment Lodge, I. O. O. F. , of the G. A. R., and of the 
Ravenna Rifle and Shot-gun Team. 

ENOS P. BRAINERI) is a resident of Ravenna, the county seat of Port- 
age County, Ohio, and the eldest of four sons of Joseph and Nancy (Post) 
Brainerd, born in Leyden, Lewis Co., N. Y. , November 25, 1814. His educa- 
tion was acquired in the common schools of Lewis County and the Martins- 
burg Academy. At the age of sixteen his father died, and it was the wish of 
his widowed mother that her eldest son be educated in some profession, but 
preferring a trade he served an apprenticeship at harness-making and carriage 
trimming. In the spring of 1834 he came to Ohio and settled at Cuyahoga 
Falls, then in Portage County, where he followed his trade for about live 
years. August 4, 1836, he married IMiss Margaret Wells, eldest daughter of 
John F. Wells, of Ravenna, this county. In 1839 he removed to Randolph, 
and in 1843 be was elected Justice of the Peace, and at the October election in 
1845 he was elected County Treasurer. In the spring of 1846 he removed to 
Ravenna, where he has since I'esided. In 1849 he entered into partnership 
with his brother-in-law, Samuel Mason, under the firm name of Mason & 
Brainerd, engaged in hardware, stove and tinning business, which partnership 
continued until Mr. Mason's death in August, 1852. In 1853 Mr. Brainerd 
was appointed Cashier of the Franklin Bank of Portage County, was acting 
Treasurer in 1854, and in 1855 he was elected Treasurer of the Atlantic & 
Great Western Railroad Company, and re-elected from year to year until 1864, 
when he resigned, but subsequently served in the same position one year more. 
On the 12th of July, 1859, he was appointed acting Secretary of this railway 
company, in which position he served three years. In December, 1864, he was 
appointed Director of the company in place of William Reynolds, Esq., 
resigned, and at the next annual meeting in July he was elected member of the 
Railway Board of Directors, which position, and that of Inspector of Accounts, 
he held several years. His official connection with the railway company in the 
positions named covered a period of nearly fourteen years. Mr. Brainerd 
was also Director, Treasurer and Financial Officer of the Silver Creek Mining 
& Railway Company in Wayne and Medina Counties seven years, from 1856 
to 1863. For many years he was Director of the Portage County Branch of 
the State Bank of Ohio, and after the death of Mr. Seymour in November, 
1863, he was elected its President. After the organization of the First 
National Bank of Ravenna, he was for several years one of its Directors. He 

43 



814 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

was also Treasurer of the Farmers Insurance Company of Portage County dur- 
ino- all the years of its business transactions. For seven years be was Treas- 
urer, and three years President, of the Portage County Agricultural Society, 
and much of its success and prosperity is due to his efficient action and untir- 
ing efforts in its behalf. Mr. Brainerd has for the past six years been Director 
and Historian of the Portage and Summit Counties Pioneer Association. In 
1870 he entered into partnership with his son, Charles W. Brainerd, under the 
firm name of E. P. Brainerd & Son, and engaged in a general drug business, 
which continued until the spring of 1882. Our subject is of the fifth generation 
from Daniel Brainerd, the common progenitor of all of the name in the United 
States, who came from England when quite young, and settled in Haddam, 
Conn., in 1862. He became a wealthy, prominent, and influential man; was 
twice married, first to Miss Hannah Spencer, of Lynn, Mass. , by whom he was 
the father of seven sons and one daughter. No children by his second 
wife. Mr. Brainerd has in his possession a manuscript 200 years old, it 
being the original record of a town meeting in Haddam, Conn., at which 
the first Brainerd was elected to a township office. The subject of this 
sketch being a direct descendant of Revolutionary stock, he inherited the 
spirit of '76 and great devotion to the stars and stripes. In politics he 
beo-an an old-line Whig, voted the Free Soil ticket, and has been identified 
with the Republican party since its organization, and was for many years 
Chairman of the County Central Committee. He has ever been a warm friend 
of education. For rnany years before the union school system was adopted he 
held the position of Director of Common Schools, and later for some years he 
was President of the Board of Education of Ravenna. Heisthe father of two 
children: His son, Charles \V. , is a druggist in Mantua; his daughter, Mary 
Adelaide, married F. W. Hurlburt, of Utica, N. Y. — she died October 11, 
1878, aged twenty-eight years, leaving a daughter, Florence Adelaide, born 
June 25, 1875. His wife died March 21, 1880, aged sixty-three years. 
October 11, 1881, Mr. Brainerd married Augusta L., the only surviving 
daughter of Ezra and Lydia (Platts) Jones, of Saybrook, Conn., and a 
graduate of Mount Holyoke Seminaiy, Mass., in the class of 1859. From the 
early period at which the subject of this sketch became identified with the 
interests of Portage County, he has occupied a conspicuous position in busi- 
ness affairs, in educational interests, public improvements and all that per- 
tains to the progress and advancement of his town and county. The record of 
his life will live in the memory of those whose rugged Avays he smoothed and soft- 
ened, after he has passed away. 

ISAAC BRAYTON was born at Nantucket, Mass., in 1801. Having early 
lost his father, he entered the family of a relative, Hon. Hezekiah Barnard, 
then Secretary of the State of Massachusetts, where superior advantages were 
given him. As did nearly all Nantucket boys at that period, he early fol- 
lowed the sea, shipping on board a whaling vessel when nineteen years of age, 
where his activity and intelligence led to rapid promotion. In 1825 he mar- 
ried Love Mitchell, who died in 1869, beloved by all who knew her. In 1827 
he commanded a ship which conveyed some of the first missionaries to the 
Sandwich Islands, and upon a subsequent visit he united with the church of 
Honolulu, and immediately established a family altar and Bible class on ship 
board. Capt. Brayton abandoned the sea in 1833, and was soon elected to the 
Legislature of Massachusetts at the time Horace Mann was Superintendent of 
Public Schools. Coming to Ravenna in 1839, greatly interested in education, 
he was potent in the establishment of a high school, which then seemed to 
many unnecessary. He became Associate Judge when Hon. Benjamin F. 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 815 

Wade was chief upon the bench. Judge Brayton removed to Newburg (now 
a ward of the city of Cleveland) in 1853, where he was elected to the Ohi© 
Legislature and was afterward charged with important duties by Gov. Salmom 
P. Chase. He labored with the Sanitary Commission during the war, being 
stationed at Nashville, Teun., and was afterward appointed Superintendent of 
the National Soldiers' Home while it was at Columbus, Ohio, before cominof 
under military control. He returned to Ravenna in 1873, and has since led a 
quiet home life in the family of his son-in-law, F. W. Woodbridge. 

JOHN S. BRIGHAM, contractor and builder, Ravenna, was born June 9, 
1821, in St. Albans, Vt. His father, Pierpont Brigham, a native of Massa^ 
ehusetts, came to Vermont, where he married Louisa Conger, who died Sep- 
tember 30, 1832; he moved to Bufi'alo, N. Y. , and died of cholera September 
21, 1852. Our subject while residing in Buffalo married, September 5. 1844 
Miss Frances H. Barker, of Ravenna, Ohio, a native of Palmyra, N. Y., bora 
March 24, 1828, coming to this place at two years of age with her paremtg^ 
James F. and Henrietta Barker. Her grandfather, Ira Shelby, was one of the 
early pioneers of Ravenna Township, this county, and his descendants to-day 
remain the leading and most influential people of Portage County, Ohio. To 
Mr. and Mrs. Brigham have been born four children: Henry; Henrietta, wife 
of Mr. Beckley; Charles J. and Willis J. After residing one year in Buffalo 
Mr. and Mrs. Brigham settled in Ravenna, this county, where Mr. Brigkam 
has followed his business as builder and contractor. He erected most of the 
public buildings and the leading private residences which gives Ravenna so much 
renown for its beauty. Mrs. Brigham is one of the leading members of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Brigham is a life-long Republican; he has 
taken a deep interest in the public affairs of the city. 

HENRY F. CARIS, brick manufacturer, Ravenna, was born April 22, J832, 
in Ravenna Township, this county, and is descended from a long line of pio- 
neers of this county. His great-grandfather, Frederick Caris, came here trom 
Maryland in very early times. He had two sons: John, who was a Lieutenant 
in the war of 1812, and B'rederick, who a Captain of militia in the same war. 
The latter had a large family, of whom John Caris, second, was the eldest son. 
He married Elizabeth, daughter of the well-known pioneer, Henry Sapp, and 
of their seven children three are now living: Albert and Mary in Washington 
Territory, and Henry F. Our subject was brought up on his father's farm and 
received his education in the schools of the home district. At twenty years ol 
age he began learning the ti-ade of brick-maker. He established a yard of laie 
own in 1853 and he now owns the only brick-yard in Ravenna, where he makoB 
from half a million to a million bricks per annum. Mr. Caris married, June 
14, 1860, Miss Julia, daughter of Sidney S. and Julia Allen, of Ravenna, 
born at Republic, Seneca Co., Ohio, in 1836, and who came to this place at 
eight years of age with her parents. Mr. Allen was a mill-wright, and he and 
his wife resided here until their death. Of the five children born to our sub- 
ject and wife two are now living: Edward C. and Anna A. Mr. and Mrs. Ca^k 
are members of the Universalist Church. In politics he is a Democrat. 

ERASTUS CARTER (deceased) was born in 1775 in Litchfield CoKfity, 
Conn.; married Miss Lois Fuller, oE the same county. They moved to JohnsoE. 
Township, Trumbull Co. , Ohio, in 1805, and settled in Ravenna Township 
(then a part of the same county) in 1806. Here he purchased 700 acres of 
wild land from the Connecticut Land Company. They then went to work to 
clear their domain and redeem it from the wilderness. They raised a family 
of seven children: Howard, now living in Ravenna Township, this county; 
Mrs. Tuthala Judd, who died November, 1878, aged seventy-seven; Mrs. Loie 



816 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Judd. who died in May, 1884, aged eighty; Erastus; Miles, who died in 1861, 
aged fifty-three; M}'ron, who died in 1836, aged twenty-one, and Ira still liv- 
ing in Ravenna Township. Mrs. Carter died in 1854, aged seventy-six. Mr. 
Carter followed her in 1867, aged ninety-two. He was very energetic in open- 
ing this county and developing its resources. He was an active member of the 
Masonic fraternity. Being originally a Whig, he supported the Democratic 
party at Jackson's second election and ever afterward. He was one of the 
honored pioneers whose memory will be handed down to future generations in 
connection with the services they have rendered in reclaiming a vast wilder- 
ness and laying the foundation for a broader and more permanent civilization. 

ERASTUS CARTER, farmer, P. O. Ravenna, son of Erastus, Sr., and Lois 
(Fuller) Carter, was born May 25, 1808, in Ravenna Township, this county. 
He shared the usual lot of pioneer boys and attended the limited schools of those 
early days. He married, in January, ]832, Miss Hannah Skiff, who died in 
May, 1837, aged twenty -five years, leaving three children now living in Iowa: 
Ira R., Julius E. and Marion H, wife of Dr. J. R. Boyd. Mr. Carter then 
married, July 2, 1838, his deceased wife's sister. Miss Delia Skiff, born in 
Litchfield County, Conn., August 20, 1816, and who came to Shalersvi lie, this 
county, in 1825, with her parents, Julius and Julia Skiff, of whose ten chil- 
dren but three are now living: Mrs. Abbie Beazell in Ravenna, Frank B. in 
Iowa, and Mrs. Erastus Carter. Mr. Skiff died May 11, 1852, aged sixty-six; 
his widow April 10, 1855, in her seventieth year. Since their marriage Mr. 
and Mrs. Carter have resided in Ravenna Township, this county. Here they 
own a fine estate of about 500 acres of well -improved land, and to them have 
been born the following children: Myron H. and Mrs. Ellen Gillett in Ravenna 
Township, this county, and Addison S. in eastern Iowa. Mr. Carter is a life- 
long Democrat, having voted for Andrew Jackson in 1832 and for every Demo- 
cratic nominee for President since. 

WILLIAM S. CHURCHILL, farmer and dairyman, P. O. Ravenna, was 
born June 21, 1841, in Streetsboro Township, this county. His father, Isaiah 
Churchill, of Chautauqua County, N. Y. , came to this county in early man- 
hood and here married Miss Eunice A., daughter of Newton and Mollie Mor- 
ris, of Shalersville Township. Isaiah Churchill died October 6, 1851, leaving 
two children: William S. and John N. in Warren, Ohio, and his widow after- 
ward married William L. Russell. She died March 1, 1884. Our subject 
enlisted, August 11, 1862, in Company I, One Hundred and Fourth Regiment, 
Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was attached to the Army of the Cumberland, 
and after three years of brave and faithful service, received an honorable dis- 
charge, June 29, 1865, at Cleveland, Ohio. He married, January 1, 1868, 
Miss Louisa E. Towns, and their children are Harry Almon (deceased), Edith 
I., Lulu Pearl, Orilla Birdell, Jessie A., AVinnie J. and Alta B. Mr. and Mrs. 
Churchill now own the homestead farm of sixty-eight acres where they have 
resided ever since their marriage. They devote their farm largely to the dairy 
interests, in which they are very successful. They are consistent members of 
ihe Disciples Church. Mr. Churchill is a life-long Republican. 

N. D. CLARK, banker, Ravenna, was born in Tallmadge, Summit Co., 
Ohio, December 14, 1814. He was the youngest son of Ephraim and Ala 
Clark, originally from Massachusetts, but who settled in Tallmadge, then Por- 
tage County, in the year 1802, just in time to vote for the first Constitution of 
Ohio. Ephraim was one of the leading men of Tallmadge, and for many 
years a Justice of the Peace. He died March 4, 1858, in the eightieth year 
of his age. He had seven children: Allen I., James A., Miletus S., Newel D., 
Martha A., Mary L. and Harriet A., of whom three only are now living: N. 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 817 

D. , of Ravenna; Martha Wait, of Iowa; and Harriet A. Clark, of Kansas. 
Our subject was reared on a farm. In 1832, after serving his apprenticeship, 
he, with his two brothers, James A. and Miletus S. , under the firm name of 
N. D. Clark & Co., started a carriage and buggy manufactory in Ravenna, and 
carried the same on successfully for thirty years. He then became connected 
with the old Portage County Branch Bank, which was in 1863 merged into the 
First National Bank of Ravenna, of which he was elected President in 1867, 
which office he has continuously filled to the present time, being again re-elected 
in January, 1885. He has also occupied various offices of public and private 
trust, in each of which he faithfully discharged his every duty. He was mar- 
ried April 9, 1835, to Sarah Rawson, of Ravenna, by whom he had two daugh- 
ters: Amelia, the eldest (died when only sixteen months old) and Laura A., 
who was married to Henry Beecher, an extensive dry goods merchant and 
Director of said bank, in September, 1857, both of whom are now deceased- 
Mrs. Ala Clark, the mother of N. D., died in Talimadge, October 2, 1833. 
Mrs. N. D. Clark was born in Ravenna, August 13, 1816. 

HIRAM T. CLARK, dentist, Ravenna, was born December 3, 1838, in 
Ravenna. His father, James A. Clark, came here from Talimadge (now in Sum- 
mit County, Ohio,) and married Miss Mary Torrey. He carried on a wagon 
and carriage shop in partnership with his brothers, Newell D. and Miletas. 
James A. Clark died in 1852, and his widow afterward married a Mr. Gold- 
smith. She is now residing in Cleveland, Ohio. Our subject resided in Belle- 
ville, Ontario, from 1859 to 1867, where he learned the profession of dentistry. 
He remained in Wadsworth, Ohio, two years, and then located permanently in 
Ravenna, this county, in 1869. Here, by his scieiitific skill in his profession, 
he has built up a large and influential and lucrative practice. The Doctor was 
married June 6, 1868, to Miss Angeline Gilbert, of Belleville, Ontario. They 
have one son — James Gilbert. Dr. Clark is the only dentist in Ravenna, hav- 
ing obtained a certificate from the Ohio State Dental Society. He is one of 
the leading members of the profession in northeastern Ohio. 

QUINCY COOK, proprietor of Ravenna Mills, Ravenna, was born April 
28, 1833, in Elmore, Lamoille Co., Vt. His parents, David and Betsey 
(Conant) Cook, were natives of the same place, where the former died and the 
latter now resides. Our subject's grandfather Cook was a soldier in the war 
1812, and lived to the advanced age of ninety-six. Our subject learned the 
trade of stone-cutter in his native place. At twenty years of age he came to 
Ohio, and assisted in the construction of the Marietta & Cincinnati Railroad 
for one year. He then worked three years in the construction of the Cleve- 
land & Mahoning Railroad. He then spent one year in Watertown, "VVis., and 
eighteen months in Rochester, Minn., in the livery business. He then returne<2 
to Ohio and married, October 5, 1859, Miss Charlotte R. Battles, of "Weather- 
field, Trumbull County, and to this union have been born three children: Helea, 
Martha B. and Edward D. He remained two years on a farm in Trumbul! 
County, then from 1862 till 1870 he held the position of foreman of masonry 
on the Atlantic & Great Western Railroad. In 1866 he purchased a farm in 
Ravenna Township, and there his family resided. He was Inspector of 
Masonry for the city of Cleveland, Ohio, in 1870, and in 1871 foreman of & 
force of men for E. W. Ensign, contractor on the Lake Shore Road. In 1872 
Mr. Cook formed a partnership with Wanzer Holcomb, in taking contracts for 
various railroads and city corporations. In 1881 he built the Ravenna Mills 
on Main Street, and the Cleveland & Pittsburgh Railroad, and he now devotes 
his attention principally to the management of this industry. The mill is for 
custom woi'k, complete in all departments, and enjoying a very extensive patron- 
age in the surrounding county. Mr. Cook is a life- long Republican. 



818 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

JOHN CUTLER (deceased) a native of Windham County, Conn., came 
lio Ravenna Township, this county, from Rensselaer County, N. Y., in 
1819. Here he married, October 6, 1825, Miss Sallie G. Sutliff, daughter of 
Giles and Betsey Sutliff, who came to this county from Litchfield County, 
Conn., in 1817. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Cutler settled on their 
3arm of 101 acres of well- improved land, situated in the western part of 
Havenna Township, this county, where they have ever since resided. Their 
children were Mrs. Almira AMiite, Florilla J., Mrs. Miranda S. Law, John 
Warren and Mrs. Lucyette Braden, all now living, and four who died in child- 
liood. Mr. Cutler died October 16, 1805, in his sixty-sixth year. He took an 
active interest in public affairs, having held the positions of Township Trustee 
and Township Assessor. In politics he was a Democrat. Warren Cutler now 
lives on the homestead with his widowed mother and his sister Florilla. 

LUTHER DAY, deceased, ex-Judge of the Supreme Coui't of the State of 
Ohio, was born in Granville, Washington Co., N. Y. , July 9, 1813. His 
paternal grandfather, Noah Day, was of the Connecticut family of Days, and 
did service under W^ashington in some of the hardest battles of the Revolution- 
ary war. Soon after the war he moved from Killingly, Conn,, and settled on 
a farm in Granville, N. Y., and, being a blacksmith by trade, carried on both 
Ihe business of farming and blacksmithing. He reared a large family, who, 
}ike himself, were Puritans in religion, and most of them good farmers and 
mechanics. David Day, the father of Luther Day, was a skilled millwright. 
On June 1, 1812, he married Rhoda Wheelock, of Tyringham, Berkshire Co., 
Mas3. Her father was also a soldier of the Revolution. Her mother was 
Hannah Warren, a kinswoman of Maj.-Gen. Warren, who fell at Bunker Hill. 
The subject of this sketch attended the common schools until twelve years old, 
when he began an academic preparation for college, which he pursued for a 
year, when, his father having purchased a farm and saw-mill, he left the 
academy and worked at home on the farm for a year. He then returned to 
school, but in a few days after he received a message that his father had been 
killed in the mill. His father died much involved in debt, and it was thought 
&at all he had saved would be sacriticed in the settlement of his estate. But, 
ander the advice of an uncle, he resolved to save the family from that calamity. 
For six years — from fourteen to twenty — he labored on the farm and in the 
aaw-mill, and with the help of his younger brother, the debts of the estate were 
paid and a home was saved for his mother and the younger children. Those 
are six valuable years to a young man desiring to obtain a liberal education, 
and the loss in that regard could never be regained, but great as the loss was 
to him and hard as the struggle was, he never looked back to those days with 
icegret, but ever recurred to them as associated with the chief success of his 
Isfe. Having at twenty years of age accomplished the desire of his friends 
and the ambition of his boyhood regarding the home of his family, his desire 
for an education returned, and working his way by teaching school, he resumed 
his preparatory course for college, and in 1885 entered Middlebury College, 
Vermont. During the junior year he taught the grammar school of Cambridge- 
port, Mass. At the close of the school year in September, 1838, his mother 
and family having in the meantime removed to Ravenna, Portage Co., Ohio, 
he went there to visit them, intending to return and complete his collegiate 
course, but owing to his limited pecuniary circumstances, he abandoned the 
idea, and began the study of law under the tuition of Hon. Rufus P. Spalding, 
then a resident of Ravenna, whose kindness to him during the two years of 
his preparatory study he ever gratefully remembered. On October 8, 1840. he 
was admitted to the bar. It was his good fortune to have a partnership offered 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 819 

him by Hon. Darius Lyman, an old practitioner of high standing at the Ohio 
bar. This partnership continued three years. In 1843 he was elected Prose- 
cuting Attorney of Portage County and served one term. While reading law 
he had made the acquaintance of Miss Emily Swift Spalding, eldest daughter 
of Hon. R. P. Spalding, to whom he was married July 24, 1845. Her mother 
was Lucretia Swift, daughter of Hon. Zephaniah Swift, late Chief Justice of 
Connecticut. Her father was afterward a Judge of the Supreme Court of 
Ohio, and for three terms a distinguished member of Congress, from the Cleve- 
land District, Ohio. Mr. Spalding having in 1840 moved to Akron, Mr. Day 
went there after his marriage and formed a partnership with him, remaining 
nearly a year, when, because of the ill health of his wife in that locality, he 
returned to Ravenna, where he resided during the remainder of his life. In 
1848 our subject was again elected Prosecuting Attorney and served one term. 
In 1850 he was nominated by the Democratic party as a candidate for Con- 
gress, but the district having a large Whig majority, he was defeated. In the 
fall of 1851, at the first election of Judges under the Constitution of the State 
adopted that year, he was elected Judge of the Court of Common Pleas for 
the district composed of the counties of Portage, Trumbull and Mahoning. 
In February, 1852, while on a visit to her father, Judge R. P. Spalding, 
who had then become a resident of Cleveland, Ohio, his wife was taken sick. 
She died April 10, following. On April 26, 1854, Judge Day was married to 
Miss Ellen I. Barnes, of Lanesboro, Berkshire Co., Mass., a highly educated 
and estimable lady, and the union was most fortunate, both on his own account 
and of the three young children left him by his former marriage, by whom 
she has ever been most worthily esteemed and loved. Her kindred have for 
several generations been distinguished for their culture and high standing in 
the learned professions. Judge Day, at the expiration of his judicial term, in 
1857, resumed the practice of his profession, and had a large and lucrative 
business in the counties of his former judicial district and adjoining counties. 
When the war of the Rebellion broke out, he ceased to act with the Democratic 
party, and at once identified himself with the Union organization. In Janu- 
ary, 1862, Gov. David Tod, who had in the fall before been elected Governor 
of Ohio by the Union party, appointed him Judge Advocate General on his 
staff with the rank of Colonel, but soon after, by reason of previous profes- 
sional engagements, he was reluctantly forced to resign the position. In the 
fall of 1863 be was elected by the Republican party to the Ohio Senate, from 
the district composed of Portage and Summit Counties. Having been in the 
fall of 1864 elected Judge of the Supreme Court of Ohio for the term of five 
years, he resigned his position as Senator after one year's service. In 1869 he 
was elected to a second term as Judge of the Supreme Court. In 1 874 he 
was again nominated by the Republican party for the same position, but the 
State going largely Democratic that year, he was defeated. In 1875 the Leg- 
islature created a commission consisting of three persons, to revise the statute 
laws of the State. In April of that year he was appointed by Gov. William Allen, 
who had been elected Governor by the Democratic party, one of the Revising 
Commissioners. In the fall of 1875 an amendment of the State Constitution was 
adopted, creating a commission in aid of the Supreme Court in the disposition 
of the large number of cases pending in that court. On February 1, 1876, 
Gov. R. B. Hayes appointed our subject a member of that commission. 
Accordingly, he resigned his membership of the Revising Commission and 
entered upon the duties of the Supreme Court Commission, where he remained 
three years, when the commission expired by constitutional limitation. While 
on the Revising Commission he aided in the collation of the statutes, which 



820 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

were fragmentary and scattered through many volumes, and rewrote a portion 
of them, which were afterward embodied in the Revised Code, and enacted as 
part of the laws of the State. While connected with the Supreme Court he 
was four years Chief Justice and one year Chief Judge of the Supreme Court 
Commission. The results of his judicial labors appear in fifteen volumes of 
the Ohio State Reports, where his published opinions, measured only by their 
real merit, will remain for him a sufficient memorial of his judicial ability. 
After the expiration of Judge Day's judicial service, he returned to the practice 
of the law. 

The children of his first wife were Emily L., William R. and Edward L. 
Of these Emily L. married George E. Fairchild and is settled in Ravenna. 
William R.. who is a graduate of Michigan University, resides in Canton, 
Stark Co., Ohio, and is a prominent member of the Stark County bar. Edward 
L. , a boy of bright promise, died of diphtheria at the age of twelve. By his 
second wife he had sis children: Mary E., the eldest of these, a most lovely 
child, died when five years of age; Charles F. is a graduate of Williams Col- 
lege, Massachusetts, and is about to enter the legal profession; David B. is 
in his junior year in Adelbert College of the Western Reserve University, Ohio; 
Robert H. is in the preparatory department of the same institution, and Anna 
B. at home attending the Union School, of Ravenna; John L., the youngest 
child, died in his infancy. During the war for the preservation of the Union, 
Judge Day took an active part in the recruiting service, and few civilians 
rendered more efficient aid to the Union cause. During those years he con- 
tracted a slight throat trouble, from which he never recovered, occasioned by 
too much out-door speaking. More than a passing mention of his services is 
due to this memorable period, which witnessed the most active portion of his 
whole life. A life-long Democrat of the Jackson school, prominent in the 
councils of his party, and a fearless and judicious leader, he ever acted with 
those who sustained the integrity of the Union. The first gun that was fired 
on Sumter lifted him to a higher arena. Abandoning party affiliation and, 
true to the traditions of the patriotic ancestiy from which he sprung, he devoted 
himself to the Union cause with a zeal and enthusiasm that knew no abatement 
until the Republic won its imperishable crown at Appomattox. In raising and 
organizing the Ohio Union forces. Govs. Dennison, Tod and Brough 
respectively sought his co operation, and he entered into the work with charac- 
teristic ardor and devotion — day after day, night after night, speaking, 
encouraging and inspiring those that took their lives in their hands, and those 
who sent their sons to the scenes of conflict and danger. Having urged the 
assignment of Gen. Garfield, the President of Hiram College, to the command 
of a regiment, he joined him in the work of its organization, and the meeting 
in the church of Hiram, addressed by Judge Day, was a memorable occasion, 
when the young men of the college and vicinity volunteered to form the first 
company in the old Forty-second Regiment of Ohio, whose first leader was 
destined to a transcendant historic fame. Throughout this entire period the 
demands on Judge Day for his services on public occasions of every kind were 
almost unlimited, and the fervor of his public addresses roused men to action 
at home, and sent encouragement to those in the field. For himself, permitting 
no reward, and asking no honor, he devoted the whole energies of his being 
to the success of the cause. Born among th'e hills of eastern New York, and 
spending his academic years at Castleton, Bennington and Middlebury, Vt, 
he ever had an enthusiasm for the mountains that nearly amounted to poetic 
inspiration, and when worn with overwork he was accustomed to resort to them 
for rest and reinvigoration. Judge Day was a member of the Methodist 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 821 

Episcopal Church, to which he was much attached. But in religious views 
he was tolerant and liberal, regarding the life, rather than the creed, the best 
exponent of Christian character. In all religious, benevolent and moral enter- 
prises he took a strong interest, giving to them liberally according to his 
means. 

Judge Day died at his home, after an illness of five days, March 8, 1885, 
aged seventy-one years, eight months. His sudden and unexpected death cast 
a gloom over all who knew him. not only in Ravenna, but throughout the 
State. His funeral services were held at the Methodist Episcopal Church on 
the 11th, and were largely attended. Members of the bar were present from 
Cleveland, Akron, Canton, Massillon, Youngstown, Warren, Ravenna and other 
places; also Judges Mcllvain and Johnson, of the Supreme Court. David 
Mcintosh Post, G. A. R., attended in a body. Thus tex-minated the life-history 
of cne of Ohio's most eminent citizens and distinguished jurists. A retrospect 
of his noble character and eventful life recalls to mind the beautiful words of 
America's poet laureate: 

"Lives of great men all remind us 
We can make our lives sublime; 
And, departing, leave behind us 
Footprints on the sands of time." 

ENSIGN F. DEMING, merchant, Ravenna, was born September 25, 1823, 
in Rootstown Township, this county. His father, Donald Deming, a native of 
West Hartford, Conn., came to this county in 1821, and married Miss Roxana 
Fitch, April 1 1, 1822, a native of Tolland, Conn., and who came to this county 
in 1815, at eleven years of age. To this union were born the following chil- 
dren: Ensign F. ; Alonzo H., who died in 1849 at Maysville, Ky. ; Mrs. Char- 
lotte E. Pinney; Mrs. Olive A. Monroe; Mrs. Adelaide R. Youngman; Hen- 
rietta (deceased); Mrs. Henriettas. Whitney; and Mrs. LorenzaO. Thompson. 
Mrs. Deming died February 27, 1865. Donald Deming moved to Iowa, where 
he resided until his death, which occurred in Muscatine, August 14, 1870, in 
his seventy-fifth year. August 27, 1845, our subject married Miss Pluma 
Terry, who bore him two children: Mrs. Loretta A. Maris, and Charles A., in 
Salineville, Ohio. They resided on the home farm for several years. In 1861 
Mr. Deming commenced business as a grocery and provision merchant in 
Rootstown Station, this county. In 1867 he removed to Ravenna, where he has 
carried on the same business ever since. Mrs. Deming is a pious member of 
the Congregational Church. Mr. Deming is a stanch Republican. He is a 
member of the I. O. O. F. 

DR. JOSEPH DE WOLF (deceased) was born in April, 1786, in Granby, 
Conn. He was the fifth in a family of thirteen children, of whom Samuel 
De Wolf (the youngest) is the only survivor, residing in Akron, Ohio. In the 
spring of 1800 Joseph De Wolf came out to Vernon, Tnimbull Co., Ohio, and 
after making preparations sent for his family in the autumn of that year. 
Young Joseph pursued his medical studies under Dr. Seeley, of Howland, that 
county, and located after a short time in Rootstown, this county, where he mar- 
ried Miss Eunice Goodrich, the only child of Deacon John Goodrich, and they 
soon after located permanently in Ravenna, this county. Dr. De Wolf early 
won a high position for himself in his chosen profession, having a practice that 
extended for many miles around to the towns of the stUTounding counties. 
He retired on his farm just west of Ravenna in 1839, still keeping up a prac- 
tice among his patients, who could not be induced to leave him. His worthy 
wife proved to be in every sense a helpmate to him in life. Her domestic 
virtues made her the center of the home life, and her modest merit and noble 
qualities endeared her to all who knew her. Their children were Dr. J. G. 



822 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

De Wolf, of Eureka Springs, Ark. ; Mrs. Mary G. Dewey, of Mount Pleasant, 
Iowa; Henry, who died at eleven years of age; and Mrs. Adeline L. Elkins. 
Dr. De Wolf afterward married Mrs. Betsey AVetmore, widow of Henry Wet- 
more. He died in 1869 at the advanced age of eighty-three years, retaining 
the strength and vigor of his faculties almost unimpaired up to the year of 
his death. He was a man of very strong mind and firm convictions. 

R. S. ELKINS, P. O. Ravenna, a native of Vermont, was born in Ver- 
mont, January 30, 1818. He learned the printers' trade and came to Cleve- 
land, Ohio, in 1837, when twenty years of age. Here he worked two years in 
the Herald office. In 1839 he came to Ravenna and engaged in the publica- 
tion of the Ohio Star until 1844, when he went to Akron, same State, where 
he engaged in the publication of the Summit County Beacon. In 1880 he 
returned to this county and located where he now resides on the old Dr. De 
Wolf homestead. Mr. Elkins married Miss Adeline L. De Wolf, February 9, 
1842. She was born in Ravenna, August 8, 1823. They have one daughter — 
Mrs. Adelaide E., wife of Rev. W. K. Ingersoll, a Presbyterian minister in 
Milford, Mich. 

CAPT. ASHLEY ELY was born November 4, 1793, in West Springfield, 
Hampden Co., Mass. He visited this county in 1818, in order to make arrange- 
ments for a permanent settlement, and returned to locate in Deerfield Town- 
ship, the following year. He had been a soldier in the war of 1812 for a 
period of eighteen months, being stationed at Boston, Mass. His father, Capt. 
Darius Ely, a soldier of distinction in the Revolutionary war, married Mar- 
garet Ashley. They came out to this county and resided with their son until 
their death. She died in 1838, aged seventy-five, he in 1844, aged eighty- 
three. Capt. Ely married Miss Sarah Lazarus, a native of Monroe County, 
Penn., and a resident of Deerfield Township, this county, since early child- 
hood. In 1826 they sold their farm in Deerfield, and located one mile and a 
half north of Ravenna. Here they cleared up their second farm, and spent 
the remainder of their lives. Their children are Linus (in Chicago), Mrs. 
Alma Carnahan (died in 1847, aged twenty-one), Ralph (residing on the old 
homestead) and Mrs. Julia M. Jillson, in Worcester, Mass. Mr. Ely died Sep- 
tember 2, 1868, in his seventy-fifth year. He was a man of iron constitution, 
and had sustained a wonderful amount of toil and hardship as a pioneer. He 
was an earnest Presbyterian, and very firm in his principles. He was one of 
the early members of the Ravenna Congregational Church. He obtained a 
substantial education, mainly by private study, and taught in Deerfield Town- 
ship and Ravenna, this county. His known integrity and excellent judgment 
caused his services to be frequently required in the public affairs of the town- 
ship. Mrs. Ely died September 8, 1881, aged eighty-three, retaining active 
use of her faculties until the last. She was widely known and beloved because 
of her skill and devotion in attending the sick. 

PETER FLATH, merchant tailor and clothier, Ravenna, was born Sep- 
tember 17, 1829, in Hesse Darmstadt, Germany. He came to America in 1849, 
and here followed his trade for several years, living at different times in New 
Y^ork; Cleveland, Ohio; Gallon, Ohio; Detroit; Fremont; Chicago, 111. ; Roches- 
ter, N. Y. ; and other places, finally settling in Ravenna, this county, April 2, 
1860. Here, after working as cutter for about five years and eight months for J. 
D. Green, he, in partnership with L. W. Reed, purchased Green's establishment. 
In course of two years W. L. Poe purchased Mr. Reed's interest, and after carry- 
ing on the business seven years under the new firm name, Mr. Fiath purchased 
his partner's interest and has since conducted the establishment alone. In 
addition to general merchant tailoring, Mr. Flath carries an extensive stock of 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 823 

clothing, hats, caps and gentlemen's furnishing goods, and by strict attention 
to business he has built up a large and flourishing trade. Our subject married 
in November, 1857, Miss Kate Heimes, of Cleveland. She was a native of 
Rhenish Prussia, and has been a resident of Cleveland since she was six years 
of age. They have one daughter — Mary Charlotte. Mr. Flath in politics is 
a Democrat. 

COL. WILLIAM FRAZER, who at the time of his death was the oldest 
male resident of Ravenna, was born in Lansingburg, N. Y., in 1794:. His 
father served seven years in the Revolution, and lost his life in the war of 
1812. Our subject was a soldier in the war of 1812, in which he served 
with distinction. He came from Geneva, N. Y., to Ravenna in 1814, and 
there carried on a jewelry establishment, and a saddlery, in turn. In 
1819 he married Miss Annie A. Campbell, daughter of Gen. John and 
Sarah Campbell. Of their ten children the following are now living: 
Homer C, in Ravenna, Ohio; Mrs. Catherine M. Preston, in Cleveland, 
Ohio; Mrs. Martha E. Dodge, in Ravenna, Ohio ; Mrs. Eliza Barnes, 
in Grinnell, Iowa, and William A., in San Francisco, Cal. Mrs. Har- 
riet M. Taylor, wife of Hon. Ezra B. Taylor, died in Warren, Ohio ; 
Mrs. Amoretta R. Campbell died in Chicago, 111.; Mrs. Sarah Norton died at 
White Water, Wis. ; and two others died in infancy. Col. Frazer served for 
several years as Deputy Sheriff of this county, and also as United States Mar- 
shal of this district. In 1842 he was elected Sheriff of this county, serving 
with satisfaction to the people and credit to himself. For many years, com- 
mencing in 1852, he was one of the Directors of the Portage County branch 
of the State Bank of Ohio. Mrs. Frazer died in March, 1875. The Colonel 
followed her in April of the same year. They were honored and esteemed as 
upright pioneers. Our subject was one of the original Republicans of the 
■county. He took the first newspapers published in the county from their com- 
mencement, and kept a complete tile, which his son still continues. This is 
the only unbroken tile of these papers in existence. 

HOMER C. FRAZER, hardware dealer, Ravenna, was born September 
21, 1821, in Ravenna. He received his education in the schools of the town 
and at Bissel Institute, Twinsburg, Ohio. In Sej^ttember, 1848, he married 
Miss Susannah Dennis, of Cleveland, Ohio, but a native of Folkestone, En- 
gland, and they have one son — Edward W. Oiu* subject succeeded his father 
in the business he now carries on — a general hardware store. Being one of 
the earliest opponents of slavery, he is now an earnest advocate of the cause of 
temperance. Mr. and Mrs. Frazer are active workers in the Congregational 
Church. 

STEPHEN RICE FREEMAN, produce dealer, etc., Ravenna, was born 
July 26, 1839, in Palmyra, this county. His father, bearing the same name, 
a native of Rutland, Vt., moved to Ogdensburg, N. Y., while a young man, 
and there married Miss Lucretia A. Seaton, a native of that place. In 1832 
he went on a prospecting trip on horseback to Chicago, looking for a desirable 
location, and not liking that place, he returned to Cleveland, Ohio, where his 
family joined him, and there they established a hotel. After following that 
business and running a boat on the canal some years, Mr. Freeman came to 
Palmyra, this county, in 1838, finally settling in Ravenna in 1846. In 1861 
he established a business as general dealer in produce in this city, and this he 
carried on until his death, which occurred August 29, 1872. In politics he 
was a strong Whig. His widow still survives him. Their children were Mrs. 
Lilias L., wife of J. S. Smith, Ravenna; Stephen R. ; Mrs. Sarah W. Stein, 
wife of W. F. Stein, photographer, Cleveland. Ohio; Mrs. Ida F. Britton,wife 



824 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

of F. H. Britton, Superintendent Chicago Division Baltimore & Ohio Rail- 
road; Garrett, and Ada L.,who died in 1879 in Cleveland, Ohio. Our subject's 
grandfather, Capt. Nathan Freeman, a native of Massachusetts, was a soldier 
in the Revolution at sixteen years of age, a Captain in the Massachusetts mili- 
tia, and a Captain in the war of 1812. He was a famous wrestler, 'and after 
risinor to the position of champion of Massachusetts, met and vanquished the 
champion of New York. Our subject completed his education under James 
A. Garfield, Hiram Institute, Hiram, Ohio. He enlisted in April, 1861, in 
the Seventh Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and in September of the same 
year re-enlisted in the Forty-second Regiment under Col. Garfield, serving 
until the close of the war, when he left the army with an honorable record as 
a brave and faithful soldier. Returning home he took a course in the Iron 
City Commercial College, Pittsburgh, Penn., and settled down in Ravenna. 
September 23, 1869, Mr. Freeman married Miss Lydia, daughter of William 
A. Holcomb, and to this union were born six children: Paul, Louis, Maud, 
Alexis, Edward and Ada. In 1866 he went into business with his father, and 
succeeded him at the death of the latter. In 1874 our subject took as part- 
ner, G. L. Horr. They make a specialty of dealing in cheese, grass seeds, 
maple products, etc. Mr. Freeman is a member of the I. 0.0. F. and G. A. R. 

GEORGE W. FREEMAN, merchant, Ravenna, was born December 10, 
1839, in Newark Valley, Tioga Co., N. Y. His father, Bicknell Freeman, was 
a native of Hartford, Conn., and a descendant of one of the Pilgrims of the 
early settlement of New England. The line of descent is as follows: January 
2, 1637, Edmund Freeman was one of the ten who settled Sandwich, Conn., 
and was for six years assistant to Gov. Bradford. His son Edmund (second) 
married a daughter of Gov. William Prince. His son Edmund, (third) had a 
son Edmund (fourth), who settled at Mansfield, Conn. His son, Edmund (fifth), 
had a son, Stephen, who was the father of Bicknell Freeman, the father of 
George W. This family is well known for the distinguished ability and integ- 
rity of many of its members. Bicknell Freeman married Miss Nancy Taylor. 
They moved to Broome County, N.Y., and soon afterward to Tioga County, but 
shortly before their death removed to Broome County. Our subject, at the age 
of twenty-three, came to this county, and remained first at Shalersvil'e. where 
he was engaged several years as clerk. He married, March 17, 1872, Miss 
Cornelia A., daughter of Apollos Reed, of Mantua, this county, and to this 
union have been born three children: Anna T. (deceased), Edmund Reed and 
Eva Henry. They came to Ravenna in March of the following year, and here 
Mr. Freeman engaged as a clerk for Smith Bros, two yeai's, for J. S. Smith 
one year, for N. Converse & Co. two years, and for Converse & Snyder two 
years. In 1880 he bought out the interest of Mr. Converse and engaged in 
partnership with P. W. Snyder. They carry a full line of dry goods, carpets, 
notions, etc. Mr. Freeman rode on horseback fifty miles to cast his first vote 
for Stephen A. Douglas, and has been a consistent Democrat ever since. While 
living at Shalersville he served the township as Treasurer seven terms. He is 
a F. & A. M. Mrs. Freeman is a member of the Congregational Church. 

CHARLES L. FRENCH, photographer, Ravenna, was born April 23,1853, 
in Middlefield, Geauga Co., Ohio, and is a son of A. M. and Margaret R. 
French, now residing at Garrettsville, this county. At the age of twenty our 
subject began learning the art of photography with his brother, at Youngs- 
town, Ohio. He was united in marriage, April 28, 1880, with Miss Emma E. 
Wolf, of Windham Township, this county, born in St. Louis, Mo., February 
21, 1860. They have one daughter — Rena. Mr. French resided at Garretts- 
ville some time after his marriage. He located in Ravenna, this county, Feb- 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 825 

ruary 1, 1882. He is known as a skillful and scientific artist, and is building 
up an extensive custom. 

DE WITT CHAMPLIN GAEDNER, insurance agent, Kavenna, was born 
November 24, 1839, in Freedom, this county. His father, Ira Gardner, born 
in Vernon, N. Y., May 6, 1803, at the death of his parents was brought up 
by an uncle in Black Rock, Oneida Co., N. Y. He learned the shoe-maker's 
trade, and in 1826 came to Middlebury, Portage (now Summit) County. Here 
he was one of the Superintendents on the construction of the Baltimore & 
Chesapeake Canal. In 1828 he married Miss Martha, daughter of Judge 
Norton. They came to Ravenna in 1830, and in 1838 located on a farm in 
Fi-eedom Township, where Mrs. Gardner died in 1838. Two of their children 
are now living: Miles Gardner, in Ashtabula County, Ohio, and Mrs. D. K. 
Wheeler, in Ravenna. Mr. Gardner then married Miss Olive A., daughter of 
Thaddeus Curtiss, of Charlestown, this county, and their children are De Witt 
C. ; Lafayette C, in Kansas; Mrs. Esther B. Barber, in Lincoln, Neb.; Mrs. 
E. Steadman, in Newton Falls, Ohio; Mrs. Mary Burroughs, in Foui* Mile, 
N. Y. ; Donn H., in Newton Falls, Ohio, and Charles F., in Wadsworth, Ohio. 
Ira Gardner died March 30, 1871. He was elected Sheriff of this county in 
1856. In politics he was a Republican. Mrs. Gardner died in 1876. Our 
subject, D. C. Gardner, received his education in the schools of the home dis- 
trict and at Hiram College. He enlisted with a large number of his fellow 
students in the famous Forty-second Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, 
under James A. Garfield, September, 1861. He was wounded in the right 
shoulder at the battle of Port Gibson, Miss., May 1, 1863, and received his 
discharge in September of same year. After taking a commercial course at 
Cleveland, Ohio, he settled on the farm with his parents, where he remained 
until his mother's death in 1876. He located in Ravenna, in 1877, and 
entered into partnership with H. C. Bedell, as agents for line of fire and life 
insurance companies. Mr. Gardner bought out his partner's interest in 1883, 
and now carries on the business alone. The companies represented by this 
agency are of a first-class character, numbering about twenty, in fire, life, 
accident, tornado and plate- glass. Mr. Gardner married, September 27, 1882, 
Miss Cynthia M. , daughter of Edward G. and Alantha Beckwith, of Dimon- 
dale, Eaton Co., Mich. Mrs. Gardner is a member of the Congregational 
Church. Mr. Gardner is a life- long Republican. He is a member of the 
G. A. R. 

W^ILLIAM S. GIBBONS, police ofiicer, Ravenna, was born in Salem, 
Columbiana Co., Ohio, August 23, 1843. His father, Hugh Gibbons, came to 
this county in about 1853, and after living some years each in several town- 
ships in the eastern and northeastern parts of the county, finally moved, in 
about 1874, to Akron, Ohio. Our subject enlisted in April, 1861, in Company 
G, Seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and re-enlisted in the same regiment two 
months later for three years service. He served in the Army of the Potomac, 
and took part in most of the fierce engagements in the Virginia campaigns. 
He received three wounds at the battle of Cedar Mountain, August 9, 1862, 
compelling him to remain in hospital eight months. He also received several 
slight wounds at other times. At the expiration of his time he re enlisted in 
the Eleventh Ohio Veteran Volunteer Infantry, serving till the close of the war 
in the Army of the Cumberland. In the famous march to the sea he had com- 
mand of a foraging company with the rank of Sergeant. He made an hon- 
orable record as a brave and faithful soldier, receiving his final discharge at 
Washington, June 11, 1865- Returning to Ravenna our subject worked here 
about twelve months as glass-blower, also in Pittsburgh, Penn. He was 



826 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Deputy Sheriff of this county under the administration of O. B. Payne and 

0. C. Kisdon. In 1871 he was appointed police officer and elected Marshal 
of Ravenna, and since then has been at the head of the police system of 
Ravenna most of the time. He is a faithful and fearless officer, discharging 
his duties to the satisfaction of the people. Mr. Gibbons has been successful 
in acquiring property. He is one of the principal stockholders in the Crown 
Flint Glass Works, of which he has held the position of Director two years. 
Mr. Gibbons married, August 9, 1866, Miss Margaret E. Cline, born in 
Ravenna, December 14, 1844. Her father, William Cline, a native of Penn- 
sylvania, married Miss Amanda Sapp. Mrs. Cline died July 30, 1884. Mr. 
Cline still resides at his home on South Walnut Street, Ravenna. Our sub- 
ject is a member in high standing of the I. O. O. F. ; also a member of the 
R. A. and G. A. R. 

CHRISTOPHER FREDERICK GOEPPINGER, tanner, Ravenna, was 
born in Wurtemberg, Germany, September 3, 1841. His father, Justus J. 
Goeppinger, came to America in 1849, and sent for his family to follow in 
1850. They lived four years at Jackson, Ohio, two years at Ellsworth, Ohio, 
and finally settled at Newton Falls, Ohio, where they now reside. Our sub- 
ject learned his trade with his father. January 25, 1866, he married Miss 
Mary M. Schauweker, a native of Columbiana County, Ohio, born July 5, 
1841. Their children now living are Rudolph, Eva, Lizzie and Ada. Those 
deceased are Delia and Mary. In 1867 Mr. Goeppinger purchased the tan- 
nery of Martin Cretzinger, at Ravenna. He at once established himself here 
permanently and went to work improving and building up the business. He 
now carries on the only tannery in the place. He makes a specialty of fine 
harness leather, for which this establishment has a wide and first-class reputa- 
tion. The products of this tannery are in great demand and are shipped to 
the far West, finding as well a ready sale in the Eastern and home markets. 
Mrs. Goeppinger is a member of the Reformed Church. Mr. Goeppinger is a 
member of the Lutheran Church. He is a stanch Democrat; a member of the 

1. O. O. F. and is a F. & A. M. 

ALEXANDER B. GRIFFIN was born August 7, 1819, in Oneida County, 
N. Y., and is a son of Richard I. and Anna (Buell) Griffin. He located in 
Ravenna in 1838, where he married Miss Elvira J. Stowe, June 14, 1843. 
Her parents, Auren and Hannah (Sheldon) Stowe, natives of New Marlboro, 
Mass., came to this county in 1811. The Stowe brothers (Auren and Hiram) 
carried the United States express from Cleveland to Pittsburgh during the 
war of 1812. Our subject carried on a cabinet shop until 1856, when he took 
charge of the hub factory purchased by the Stowe brothers. In 1880 he 
purchased the hub factory, which he sold out in 1884. Mr. Griffin has some 
very fine and intricate cabinet work which was exhibited with high honor at 
the"^ Centennial Exposition, He has held the positions of Town Clerk and 
Treasurer, Justi(!e of the Peace and Mayor. The children of Mr. and Mrs. 
Griffin were George (deceased), Emilie (deceased), and Mrs. Carrie G. Esty. 

WILLIAM GRINNELL, Ravenna, Ohio, a son of James and Julia 
(Luce) Grinnell, was born in Allegany County, N. Y., June 28, 1839. The 
family immigrated to Ohio, and settled in Franklin Township, this county, 
where Mrs. Grinnell died. James Grinnell is a resident of Summit County. 
Our subject lived on a farm until about eighteen years of age, when he entered 
a store at Kent, Ohio, as salesman. In the spring of 1859 he went to Hardin 
County, Ky., working on a farm a short time; then entered a store in Eliza- 
bethtown, same county, as salesman. During the winter of 1860 and 18(31, a 
military company being organized, our subject was waited upon by a committee 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 827 

and urged to join for drill, but declined the invitation. This act rendered his 
stay in that locality rather unpleasant, and in the spring of 1861 he returned 
to Kent, Ohio; re-entered a store, where he remained until 1862, when he 
enlisted in Company I, One Hundi'ed and Fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and 
was mustered in as Fifth Sergeant. He was promoted to be First Lieutenant; 
was wounded at the siege of Knoxville, Ky., November 29, 1863, causing con- 
finement to hospital until April 1, 1864; was commissioned Captain of Com- 
pany D soon after his return home, but discharged on account of wounds. 
Mr. Grinnell was united in marriage in 1865, with Rachel A. Phillips, a 
native of this county. He was acting as Deputy at the time of his election as 
Auditor of this county in 1868, which position he occupied twelve years. In 
1883 he was appointed by the Governor a member of Tax Commission, to 
revise tax laws of State, but declining health necessitated his resignation. 
Our subject was one of the founders and builders of the Flint Glass Works at 
Ravenna, Ohio, and its Secretary and Treasurer until January, 1884. He was 
actively identified with the building of the new Court House, having drafted 
the original bill and forwarded the same to the Legislature, by which author- 
ity was given the Commissioners to issue bonds and erect said Court House, and 
then, by appointment of Common Pleas Court, was made one of the Building 
Committee. 

ELIAS HARMON, one of the first settlers of Mantua, was a descendant 
of Francis Harmon, who in 1635 settled near Boston, Mass. His children 
were John and Sarah Harmon, the former one of the first settlers of Spring- 
field, Mass. Nathaniel, a son of John Harmon, was, with the exception of his 
two brothers, the first settler of Suffield, Conn. , and there John Harmon, the 
great-grandfather of Elias Harmon, of Mantua, was born. He was the first 
Deacon of the first church at Sufiield, and died there in 1786. Elias Harmon, 
father of the Elias Harmon who settled in Mantua in 1799, was also a native 
of Suffield, Conn., and in that village resided until his death. In the history 
of Mantua will be found a record of Elias Harmon's settlement. During his 
residence in Portage County he held the following positions: Supervisor of 
Highways in 1803; Justice of the Peace from 1808 to 1815; he was appointed 
Associate Judge in 1815, and i-eappointed to 1836; in 1808 was County 
Treasurer, reappointed in 1809; Assessor in 1810; Deputy United States Mar- 
shal in 1810; was elected Representative 1810-12, receiving 148 votes against 
John Campbell's seventy-three and Hezekiah Burrough's seventy-seven. From 
1814 to 1835 he was engaged as Land Agent for original owners of Western 
Reserve lands. His daughter, Eunice, was the first white child born in the 
township, and the first white female child in the county. In 1802 Zacheas 
Harmon settled at Mantua, and four years later came Seth, Enos, John and 
Daniel Harmon, three of whom served in the war of 1812 and were taken 
prisoners by the British at Maiden, Canada. Elias Harmon died in Septem- 
ber, 1851 (vide Mantua and county history). Orrin Harmon, son of Judge 
Elias Harmon, was born in Mantua Township, February 22, 1805, and was 
educated in the schools of that township. His wife, Mi's. Camilla (King) 
Harmon (daughter of Dr. Robert King, who settled in Charlestown Township, 
this county, in 1826), was born at Sandisfield, Mass., November 14, 1802; 
came to Portage County with her father and was married to Mr. Harmon, at 
Ravenna, September 26, 1832. This lady died June 17, 1878. Of their chil- 
dren, Julian C. Harmon, born February 17, 3835, is now a resident of Ravenna, 
and owner of a large farm near the city; Sabrina C, born January 27, 1842, 
died October 10, 1856. Mr. Harmon, now in the eighty-first year of his age, 
can look back seventy years to the beginning of the county, and relate with 



828 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

remarkable precision events connected with the county's progress and settle- 
ment. His long sex'vice as County Surveyor is referred to in the general his- 
tory of the county. 

SAMUEL D. HAKRIS, editor Democratic Press, Ravenna, was born in 
Ravenna Township, this county, May 17, 1816; son of Samuel D. Harris, 
born in Bozrah, Conn., and Lucy S. Harris, a daughter of Zenas Kent, also a 
native of Connecticut. In 1812 Samuel D. Harris, Sr., moved to Stowe Town- 
ship, now in Summit County, where he remained but a short time, and then 
moved to Ravenna, where he established a home and reared a family. Of his 
children there are three living: Samuel D., A. A., and Mary M., widow of Dr. 
Cane, of St. Paul, Minn. He was for years engaged in teaching school; 
served the county as Auditor from 1823 to 1831; was Surveyor from 1833 to 
1845; again elected and served till 1857. Samuel D. Harris, Jr., served in 
the County Clerk's office, where he acted as Assistant from 1838 to 1855. He 
took a just pride in surveying and followed it until his death, which occurred 
in this county August 2, 1865. Our subject, after receiving his education in 
the common schools of the county and Ravenna Academy, taught school. In 
1836 he entered the Western Courier office, then controlled by Selby & Rob- 
bins, and in 1837 took a position at the case in the Buckeye Democrat, then 
published by John B. King & Co., and edited by Le Grand Byington. After 
the collapse of this journal in 1837, and early in 1838, he was employed as 
Assistant Clerk in the office of the Court of Common Pleas. He filled this 
position until 1844. In June, 1845, he and Boswell Batterson published the 
Portage Sentinel, a Democratic journal. Mr. Batterson sold his interest to 
Mr. Harris, who became sole proprietor about 185L In August, 1855, he sold 
the Sentinel to Alphonso Hart and a Mr. Craig, of New Lisbon. From Au- 
gust, 1855, to 1857, he studied law with N. L. Jeffrys at Ravenna, and was 
admitted by the District Court in 1857. Subsequently he was employed in 
the offices of Judge Day and H. C. Ranney. In 1860 he was Delegate to the 
Democratic National Convention at Cbarlestown, in company with Samuel 
Lamb, of Canton (Eighteenth Ohio District) both being firm supporters of 
Stephen A. Douglas. In 1861 he was one of the most ardent supporters of 
the Union movement, and in the fall of 1861 was nominated by Republicans 
and Democrats on the Union ticket as County Treasurer; was elected, and 
re-elected in 1863. From 1861 to 1866 he was a member of the County Mil- 
itary Committee. In August, 1868, he organized the Press office, and on Sep- 
tember 3, that year, issued the first number of the Democratic Press, a thor- 
ough Democratic weekly journal, which he has edited continuously up to the 
present time. Mr. Harris was married April 28, 1844, to Miss Joannah Doty, 
daughter of David Doty, of Ravenna. They are the parents of three chil- 
dren, viz.: Lucy M., married to A. T. Smith, of Ravenna; George D. , now 
part owner of the Pi-ess; and Miss Kate Harris, residing with her parents. 

ANSEL M. HINMAN, farmer, P. O. Ravenna, was born October 20, 1826, 
in Atwater Township, this county. His grandfather, Edward Hinman, and his 
father, Elizur Hinman, were among the pioneers of Ravenna Township, this 
county. Our subject received his education in the schools of the home district 
and at the Atwater Academy, and at twenty-five years of age he moved to 
Ravenna Township, this county, and married Miss Helen M. Reed, born in 
Worthington, Mass., and who came to Ravenna Township at seven years of 
age, in 1833, with her parents, Lathrop and Chloe Reed, who settled on and 
cleared up a farm on the road north of Ravenna, where Mr. Reed died in 1842. 
Mrs. Reed still resides at this place at the advanced age ol ninety years. Their 
children were Mrs. Harriet Miller, deceased; Mrs. Susan M. Dewey, in Well- 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 829 

iogtoD, Ohio; Mrs. Helen M. Hinman, deceased, and Latbrop E. Reed, banker, 
St. Paul, Minn. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Hinman located here on 
the homestead farm. Their children are Edward L., Mrs. Hattie Peck, Har- 
lan E. and Henry D. (twins), who are still at home. Mrs. Hinman died in 
October 30, 1877. She was a lady of exalted Christian character, beloved by 
all who knew her. Mr. Hinman afterward married Miss Jennie Sackett, of 
Pittsburgh, Penn. He and his worthy wife are consistent members of the Con- 
gregational Church. 

WANZER HOLCOMB, capitalist, Ravenna, was born September 9, 1827, in 
this county, son of "William A. Holcomb. He received his education in the 
schools of the home district and at Marlboro Academy, Stark Co., Ohio. 
In early life he learned the trade of stone and brick mason with his father. On 
September 25, 1851, he was married to Miss Sophronia C. Stough, of Ravenna, 
daughter of the well known pioneer, Jacob Stough, and was brought up in the 
city. Their children are Margaret (now Mrs. Smith), William W. and Harry 
S. After living in Edinburg two years and in Mount Pleasant, Iowa, five years 
our subject and family finally settled in Ravenna. Mr. Holcomb was appointed 
in 1857 Superintendent of Masonry on the A. & G. W. (now theN. Y., P. & O.) 
R. R., which position he held until 1868. Since that time he has been engaged 
as contractor, taking extensive contracts for corporations and railroad com- 
panies. Since 1870 he has been connected with the Diamond Glass Works of 
this city and now owns a one-half interest in the concern. Mr. Holcomb is a 
member of the Disciples Church. He is a life-long Republican. 

SAMUEL J. HOPKINS (deceased) was born in Nelson, this county, in 
1822. He married, October 11, 1852, Miss Harriet W.Prentiss, whose father, 
Cyrus Prentiss, of Francestown, N. H., established a store in Ravenna, this 
county, in 1822, in which he retained an interest until his death, and married 
Miss Clarissa Wetmore, of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, in 1827. Mr. Prentiss 
devoted himself with wonderful energy and zeal to the building of the Cleve- 
land & Pittsburgh Railroad. It is said that without his eiforts the road would 
never have been constructed. When he fell into delicate health and the road was 
in good working and running order he became its President, and this position 
he retained as long as his health permitted. He died July 31, 1859. To Mr. 
and Mrs. Hopkins were born three children: C. P., Clara S. and Arthur P. 
Mr. Hopkins was engaged in the dry goods business until 1860, and after that 
in the wholesale produce and cheese business, until his death, which occurred 
April 25, 1882. 

ADAM V. HORR (deceased), son of AbnerHorr, was born in Lewis County, 
N. Y., December 26, 1819, and came to Shalersville, this county, at eighteen 
years of age with his parents. He first engaged in merchandising with his 
father, and as the latter's health was very much impaired, the main responsi- 
bility of the business devolved upon our subject. In 1842 he and Henry 
Beecher purchased the store, which they carried on jointly until 1845, when 
Mr. Beecher retired from the firm and Mr. Horr took possession of the entire 
business. He was united in marriage September 8, 1846, with Miss Rosella 
Beecher, born in Shalersville Township, this county, November 24, 1825, and 
daughter of Sylvester and Betsey (Bushnell) Beecher, and to this union have 
been born five children: Mrs. Irene R. Seymour, one son who died in infancy, 
Mrs. Isodene E. Oakley, William A. and Mrs. Adah V. Stough. Mr. Horr 
departed this life January 10, 1856. He was a man of rare business talents, 
and a very active citizen in the support of all worthy enterprises. He took 
an active interest in public affairs and held the position of Postmaster at Sha- 
lersville, this county, upward of foui-teen years. In politics he was an ardent 



830 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Republican. He was personally a genial companion, a true friend to the 
needy and a man of generous and noble impulses. He will long be remem- 
bered with tender respect by the citizens of Shalersville and vicinity. In 
April, 1861, Mrs. Horr removed to Ravenna, this county, where she still 
resides. Here she has devoted herself faithfully to the duty of bringing up 
and educating her family. She is a member of the Congregational Church, 
and is everywhere respected as a lady of estimable character. 

GURDON L. HORR, produce merchant. Ravenna, was born July 6, 1842, 
in Shalersville, this county. His father, Abner Horr, of Salem, Mass., first 
married Miss Sarah Vedder, and after residing about eighteen years in Den- 
mark, Lewis Co., N. Y., they came in 1835 to Shalersville, this county. There 
Mrs. Horr died in 1837, leaving three children: Warren, in Sterling, Kan., 
Adam V. (deceased), and Mrs. Nancy Tyler (deceased), wife of Judge Joel W. 
Tyler, of Cleveland, Ohio, and Mr. Horr then married, in 1838, Miss Lydia 
Horr, of Leyden, Lewis Co., N. Y., and their children are Gurdon L. and 
Mrs. Sarah Bedell, late of Cleveland, Ohio, latter of whom died February 9, 
1885. Abner Horr carried on a general merchandising business in Shalersville, 
and had an interest in stores in Streetsboro, this county, and at Newton Falls. 
In 1843 he sold out, retired to his farm in that township, and there resided 
until his death, which occurred August 15, 1865. His widow resides in Cleve- 
land, Ohio, with her son-in-law. Our subject received his education in his 
native town. He engaged in merchandising in partnei'ship with the widow of 
Adam V. Horr, at Shalersville, this county, in 1862. He sold out his interest 
in 1872, and in 1874 located in Ravenna, in partnership with S. R. Freeman, 
in the produce business. Mr. Horr married, September 8, 1869, Miss Sarah 
Babcock, of Shalersville Township, daughter of the well-known pioneer, Edwin 
Babcock, and born August 2, 1847, in that township. To Mr. and Mrs. Horr 
have been born one daughter, Minnie, and one son, Burt. Our subject is a 
life-long Republican. 

HON. JOSEPH DEMPSTER HORTON (deceased) was born January 3, 
1833, in Randolph, this county. His father, Rev. Peter D. Horton, was born 
in Orange County, N. Y., in 1796, and was of the eighth generation from Bar- 
nabas Horton, who settled in Long Island, in 1633. He was one of the early 
Methodist ministers of northeastern Ohio, and his memory is revei'ed by many 
who enjoyed his ministrations. His wife was Miss Hannah Couch, of Nelson, 
this county, born in 1802, in Lee, Berkshire Co., Mass. Our subject, who was 
the eldest of their children, received his education principally in the academy 
at Nelson, and began teaching at sixteen years of age. Having completed his 
law studies in the office of Ranney & Taylor, of this city, he was admitted to 
the bar in 1855, and he at once formed a partnership with his cousin and pre- 
ceptor, Hon. Ezra B. Taylor, which continued during his life, except the 
period during which Judge Taylor served on the bench. Judge Luther Day 
was a member of the firm for many years. Mr. Horton was a man of active 
public spirit, and was constantly solicited to accept offices of honor and trust, 
which he did as often as his professional duties would allow. He held the 
positions of Military Commissioner during the Rebellion, Prosecuting Attor- 
ney several times, Mayor of the city, and many local offices. He was a member 
of the Constitutional Convention in 1873, and was an influential member of 
the Judiciary Committee. He was known as possessing one of the finest legal 
minds at the bar. He was also a fluent writer, and a brilliant orator, his pro- 
ductions exhibiting rare literary ability. His death occurred September 14, 
1882. Mr. Horton married, December 25. 1858, Miss Fannie Finley of 
Detroit, Mich., born March 4, 1837, in Montreal, Canada. In 1841 she moved 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 831 

with her parents, Richard and Anna Finley, to Detroit, where the latter 
resided until their death. To Mr. and Mrs. Horton were born five children: 
Mary H., Jessie A., Peter D., Fannie and Jennie F. They have been members 
of the Congregational Church since 1866. Mr. Horton was a prominent officer 
in that church, and at the time of his death had nearly completed a history 
of the church in Ravenna. 

ANDREW JACKSON, attorney-at-law of Ravenna, is a grandson of 
John Jackson, of Plymovath Rock, Mass., and son of Col. John E. Jackson, a 
native of Chester, Mass.. who immigrated to the "West in 1812, and settled in 
this county, clearing a farm in Aurora Township, and owning and operating 
there a woolen-mill and saw-mill. At Garrettsville he met and married Clara, 
daughter of John Tinker, of Granville, Mass., whose family settled in Nelson 
Township, this county, in 1804. His place of residence was called the " Cen- 
terville Mills," in the north part of Aurora Township. Having been elected, 
and served one term, as County Surveyor, he disposed of his factory and saw- 
mill in 1839, and continued the business of surveying, and began preaching the 
Gospel, having been ordained a Baptist Elder. He was elected State Senator from 
this district in 1841, serving in that position two terms, and in 1845 was 
appointed Appraiser of Lands of this county. While delivering a discourse in 
1868, he was stricken with paralysis, and died in April. 1869. Our subject 
was born in Aurora Township, October 4, 1824, and worked in the factory 
until seventeen years old, when he Avas sent to Granville College, Licking 
Co., Ohio, the only Baptist College in the State. He began the study of law 
in 1846, under Gen. Knox, of Chagrin Falls, Ohio, and was admitted to the 
bar of Canton, Ohio, in 1848, commencing practice in Ravenna soon after. 
Subsequently he was appointed Examiner of School Teachers, and in 1852 
elected County Recorder, serving three years, and was three times elected Jus- 
tice of the Peace, for Ravenna Township. He enlisted in the Union Army, 
August 12, 1862, in Company I, One Hundred and Fourth Ohio Volunteer 
Infantry; was subsequently appointed Ordnance Sergeant; was at the front 
from the time he entered the service till close of the war, and participated in 
the battles of Fort Mitchel, Ky., siege of Knoxville, Gen. Sherman's Atlanta 
campaign, and battles of Franklin and Nashville, Tenn., Columbia, Wil- 
mington and Fort Fisher, being mustered out of the service at Cleveland, in July, 
1865. In 1866 he was elected Clerk of the Common Pleas Court, occupying 
the position six years. In 1875 he secured a charter for the " People's Mutual 
Fire Insurance Company, of which he is Secretary and Treasurer, and a member 
of the Board of Directors. Mr. Jackson has since conducted an extensive insur- 
ance business, and ceased the practice of law. He was married in 1848 to 
Mabel, daughter of Guy Doolittle, of this county, and to this union has been 
born one child — Frances J., wife of L. P. Seymour, of Ravenna, Ohio. Mr. 
Jackson is, and has been for twenty-tive years, an active member of the Meth- 
odist Episcopal Church, and also an ardent Mason; became a member of Unity 
Lodge, No. 12, in 1853, of which he is a Past Master, a member of Tyran 
Royal Arch Chapter, and a frater of Commandery No. 25, Knights Templar 
and Malta. 

DAVID JENNINGS (deceased) was born January 1, 1771, in Bradford, 
Mass. He married Miss Hannah Wellman, who was born in Lyndeboro,Hillsboro, 
Co., N. H., September 13, 1769, and they came to this county in 1802, purchas- 
ing in October, of Benjamin Tappan, 115 acres of wild land. This part of 
the country was then entirely in the wilderness. They had to go to George- 
town, Penn., to market, paying $7 to bring home a barrel of flour that cost $3. 
Their children were Solomon, who died in Franklin Township, this county. 



832 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

April 6, 1840, aged forty-three; David, Jr., who died in Ravenna Township, 
this county, January 25, 1862, aged sixty-three; Daniel W., who died in 
Shalersville, September 17, 1874, aged seventy-four, (the day of his death was 
just seventy two years from the time he reached this county); Mrs. Hannah 
H. Cutler, died June 10, 1835, aged thirty -one; Squire L. , now living in 
Ravenna; and Lewis E. Mrs. Jennings died April 3, 1840, aged seventy. Mr. 
Jennings died January 10, 1856, aged eighty-five. He was an honest, upright 
man, respected by all who knew him. Daniel W. Jerinings held many public 
positions, including that of Sheriff of Portage County, Superintendent of 
County Infirmary and Justice of the Peace. Henry C (son of Solomon Jen- 
nings), a Lieatenant in the Forty-second Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, 
served as Sheriff of the county two terms, during which he executed the mur- 
derer Jack Cooper. 

SQUIRE L. JENNINGS, retired, Ravenna, was born December 28, 1807, 
in Ravenna Township, this county, being the second oldest white boy born in 
the township now living. On October 22, 1833, he was married to Miss Nancy 
A. Sapp, born in Maryland in 1810, daughter of Jacob Sapp, of Rootstown 
Township, this county. To this union were born Sylvester F. and Mrs. 
Anginette Bosworth (latter deceased). They lived on a farm in Franklin Town- 
ship until 1845, when they sold out and have resided in Ravenna since. From 
that time Mr. Jennings has followed the trade of carpenter and joiner. He 
has been very active in public affairs, and has held the positions of Deputy 
Sheriff, Constable and Trustee at different times. 

LEWIS E. JENNINGS, farmer, P. O. Ravenna, was born July 14, 1811, 
on the farm which he now occupies. He shared the usual lot of pioneer boys 
and attended school in the old log-schoolhouse of the home district. He was 
married, January 22, 1833, to Miss Elizabeth Knowlton, born in New Sharon, 
Kennebec Co., Maine, January 14, 1813, and came to Ravenna, this county, 
in 1832. To this union have been born twelve children, seven now living: 
Mrs. Hanna H. Wain, in Cleveland, Ohio; Elizabeth Amelia; George W. and 
Mrs. Martha W. Gledhill (twins, and being born February 22, they were named 
for Gen. Washington and his wife respectively); Helen M. ; Ai-minta L. and 
Albert B. The five deceased died in early life. Since their marriage Mr. and 
Mrs. Jennings have resided on the homestead farm. Here they own a comfort- 
able home of 189 acres of well-improved land. Mr. Jennings has held the 
office of Trustee, and has been School Director thirty years. In politics he 
is a Democrat. 

DAVID JENNINGS (deceased) was born September 18, 1798, in Hartford, 
Me., and came to this county in 1802 with his parents. He married, 
November 13, 1825, Miss Hannah Rawson, born in Warwick, Franklin Co., Mass., 
December 16, 1808, and came to Ravenna Township, this county, in 1815, 
with her parents, Elliott and Sarah (Williams) Rawson. Mr. Rawson purchased 
a tract of 400 acres of land, adjoining the western corporation line of Ravenna. 
He died in 1825, leaving six children : Mrs. Elizabeth Price(now deceased), Mrs. 
Hannah Jennings, Ebenezer (deceased), Mrs. Sarah Clark, Mrs. Czarina Harper, 
and Elliott (latter deceased). After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Jennings 
settled on their property in Ravenna Township, three miles north of Ravenna. 
Here Mr. Jennings died, January 25, 1862. He was a man of upright integ- 
rity, and exerted a good influence in the community. He was a life-long and con- 
sistent Democrat. He took an active part in the public affairs in the township ; 
held the office of Township Trustee and other township offices. Mrs. Jennings 
still resides with one of her two sons, on the family homestead. 

ANDREW^ JACKSON JENNINGS, farmer, P. O. Ravenna, was born 
January 15, 1827, in Ravenna, this county. October 11, 1849, he was married 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 833 

to Miss Sophia P. Trowbridge, born in Ontario County, N. Y., March 14, 1825. 
Her parents, Daniel and Sallie (Blakely) Trowbridge, former a native of Frank- 
lin County, Mass., came to Ravenna Township, this county, in October, 1833. 
They moved to Hudson, Summit Co., Ohio, in 1852, where Mr. Trowbridge 
died in February, 1881, and where his widow still resides. After his father's 
death our subject purchased the heirs' interest in the estate, and now owns the 
homestead. He is proprietor hereof a farm of 100 acres of well-improved land. 
He takes a deep interest in progressive and scientific farming, and has taken 
a leading part in the Portage County Agricultural Society. 

DR. DAVID RAWSON JENNINGS, of Cleveland,' Ohio, married Miss 
Elizabeth H. Monroe, of Rootstown Township, this county, a native of Nan- 
tucket, Mass. He took a thorough course in dentistry and after practicing his 
profession fourteen years in Ravenna, this county, he located in Cleveland, 
Ohio, in 1873. He is a skillful and scientific deatist and has a large and 
increasing practice. 

HARLOW S. JOHNSON, Health Officer, Ravenna, was born February 1, 
1821, in Nelson, this county. His father, Alanson Johnson, a native of 
Litchfield, Conn., was a great-grandson of the famous Sir William Johnson, 
who took great part in settling a colony in the Mohawk Valley, N. Y. The 
town of Whitehall, Washington Co., N. Y., was built on an estate of the 
family. Alanson Johnson was a cousin to Richai'd M. Johnson, late Vice- 
President of the United States, and also to Mrs. I^artin Van Buren, and 
was second cousin to President Andrew Johnson. He married Miss Betsey 
Northrop, of Cornwall, Conn., a descendant through her grandmother of the 
family of Sir Francis Drake, and one of the oldest Puritan families of New 
England. He was a soldier in the war of 1812, and in 1816 they came to this 
county, and settled in Nelson. Of their five children Mrs. Elizabeth S. Spen- 
cer now lives in Windham, this county; Mrs. Antoinette Couch, of Nelson, 
died July 6, 1884, aged seventy; Mrs. Julia Hunt, of Nelson, died April 6, 
1884, aged sixty-six, and one daughter died in childhood. The father and 
mother lived the lives of useful pioneers and were honored by a large circle of 
friends. She died March 6, 1877, aged eighty-three. He died January 2, 
1880, aged eighty-eight. Our subject was their only son. He married Miss 
Emily Baldwin, of Nelson, 'August 22, 1844. She was born October 19, 1827, 
and is a daughter of Stephen Baldwin, who was among the earliest settlers of 
that township, having come from Granville, Mass., in 1803. Her mother's 
maiden name was Hannah Clark, a native of Cornwall, Conn. To Mr. and 
Mrs. Johnson have been born four children : Loren Alanson, Auditor of the 
freight department of the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad, Cleve- 
land, Ohio; Andrew J., in Warren, Ohio, inventor of a successful fire-escape 
and Superintendent of the Warren Fire Escape Company; Frank H. (deceased), 
late journalist. Bay City, Mich., and an infant (deceased). After their mar- 
riage Mr. and Mrs. Johnson resided on their farm until 1872, when they sold 
out and located in Ravenna. Our subject has held the position of Health 
Officer of the city since 1880. He is discharging his duties faithfully and 
efficiently and has put the city in first-class sanitary condition. 'Mr. Johnson 
is a life loDg Democrat. Mrs. Johnson is a consistent member of the Congre- 
gational Church. 

R. B. JOHNSON, physician, Ravenna, is a native of Stark County, Ohio, 
born November 14, 1839. His grandfather, Joseph Johnson, was a pioneer of 
Stark County, settling in the woods in 1822, and clearing a farm where he 
passed the remainder of his years. John Johnson, the father of our subject, 
who was born in Fayette County, Penn., in 1815, married Esther Holloway 



834 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

and resides on the farm where he first settled. Oi their children, three are 
now living: R. B., Nathan W. and Sarah, wife of Isaac Scott, of Kosciusko 
County, Ind. Our subject was brought up on a farm and received the advan- 
tages of a common school education, attending also the high school of Alliance, 
Ohio. He taught school for four successive winters, commencing when nine- 
teen years old. He studied medicine in the office of Dr. J. G. Heaton 
(deceased), in Alliance, and graduated at the Cleveland Homoeopathic College 
in 1869. The same year he began practice in Ravenna, where he has since 
remained. He was married, in Washington County, Penn., in November, 
1861, to Elizabeth Lilley, by whom he had six children, three now living: 
Nellie L., Thaddeus L. and George D. The Doctor has won popularity both 
as a physician and as a citizen, and has given successful advancement to 
Charles D. Painter, of Alliance, and M. G. McBride, of Ravenna, both of 
whom are practicing physicians. He united with the Disciples Church in 1860, 
and has held some official position for the last iifteen years, and is now an 
Eider in said church. He is an honored member of the I. O. O. F. 

DAVID O. KELLOGG, farmer, P. O. Ravenna, was born December 2, 
1809, in Hampden County, Mass. He came to Freedom Township, this 
county, in 1828, with his parents, David and Ruth (Lambson) Kellogg, who 
afterward moved to South Shenango Township, Crawford Co., Penn., where 
they resided until their death. Our subject married Miss Mary Ann Hoskin 
in 1837. She died May 2, 1840, leaving one daughter — Mrs. Mary Ann 
Brown (now deceased). Mr. Kellogg afterward married Miss Harriet Hoskin, 
December 9, 1840. They had two daughters: Mrs. Jeanette McClintock and 
Lovisa, the latter deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Kellogg located in 1866 in 
Ravenna Township, this county, and purchased a farm, their present home, near 
the city, and this they have improved. They are pious members of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church, to which our subject belonged for over fifty 
years, and Mrs. Kellogg for over forty years. The subject of this sketch is 
one of the leading pioneer citizens of this county, and is highly respected by 
the entire community. 

WILLIAM KING (deceased). Among the early settlers, and the first of 
this family who located in this county, was William King, a native of the 
town of Blandford, Mass., of Irish descent. He moved with his wife and two 
children, Robert and John B. , and arrived in Charlestown, Portage Co., Ohio, 
in 1811, where he located, bought a farm and resided for several years. Sub- 
sequently he removed to Ravenna, and commenced keeping the Exchange 
Hotel on the south side of the Square, east of Court House (now used for busi- 
ness purposes). Afterward he kept hotel in another building, and remained in 
that line of business mitil he retired from active life. He died June 20, 1842, 
leaving a family of four children: Robert, John B., Eli P., Mary A., now the 
vfife of Dr. A. B. Woodworth, of St. Louis, Mo. His widow, Betsey (Black) 
King, died in 1853. Mr. King was exceedingly energetic and pushing in 
business affairs, and left a comfortable property. 

GEN. JOHN B. KING (deceased), son of William King, whose sketch 
appears above, was born in Blandford, Mass. , March 30, 1807, and was about four 
years of age when his father settled in this county. During his youth he 
attended the public schools of Ravenna and there laid the foundation of a 
good education. Subsequently he took a classical course in the Western 
Reserve College. He entertained a desire to become a lawyer, and for some 
time be was engaged in the study of that pi-ofession at Ravenna, though never 
admitted to the bar. When twenty-three years of age, February 7, 1830, Mr. 
King was married to Miss Caroline M. Selby, a native of Palmyra, N. Y. , and 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 835 

a daughter of Judge Ira Selby, from that State. Judge Selby at this time 
kept the Globe Hotel at Raveuna, and as Gen. King and his young wife's par- 
ents were both hotel -keepers, it was that business our subject adopted, and he 
soon after became proprietor of the Exchange Hotel, which he carried on for 
six or seven years. He then purchased a farm adjoining the village of 
Ravenna and followed agricviltural pursuits, buying and selling stock in con- 
nection the remainder of his life. Gen. King was a Democrat in politics, and 
he took an active part in all public affairs. He served the township in some 
local offices, and was always an earnest advocate and supporter of the educa- 
tional interests of the county. In religious convictions he was a XJniversalist, 
and he assisted largely in the organization of the society in Ravenna, contrib- 
uting liberally toward it, and furnishing most of the timber used in erecting 
the present church building at Ravenna. On the construction of the Cleveland 
& Pittsburgh Railroad he was one of the incorporators, a large stockholder and 
a Director. In his younger days he was an enthusiastic member of the State 
militia, serving in the ranks, and rose subsequently through every official 
grade to that of Major-General. During the civil war, at the time of Mor- 
gan's raid, he organized a company of volunteers called the " Squirrel 
Hunters," which went to Cincinnati, Ohio, but the emergency having passed 
over they were disbanded and returned home. This company was made up of 
men of over forty-five years of age, and each of them received a lithographed 
"Squirrel Hunter's" discharge, embellished with the portrait and charac- 
teristic autograph of His Excellency, Gov. Tod, one of which is now in pos- 
session of J. D. King. His first wife dying in 1852, Mr. King was married 
the second time, September .18, 1855, to Phebe Warner, daughter of Jiidge 
Jonathan Warner, of Jefferson, Ashtabula County, who bore him one child — 
Flora L. Gen. John B. King died April 2, 1864, leaving seven children in 
all: William L., Ira S. , Joseph D., Henrietta L. (now Mrs. Clinton C. Can- 
field, of Cleveland, Ohio), Frances B., John B. and Flora L. The widow now 
resides in Cleveland. 

*• CAPT. JOSEPH D. KING, a son of Gen. John B. King, was born March 
21, 1836, at Ravenna, this county, and passed his youth on his father's farm 
adjoining Ravenna, daring which period he attended the village schools, grad- 
uating at the Union Schools of that place. Subsequently he attended Tappan 
Seminary. He read law in the office of John L. Ranney, intending to teach 
school at intervals in order to obtain the money wherewithal to continue his 
studies, but his health having failed he was obliged to discontinue his legal 
studies, and shortly afterward made a visit South for his health, extending 
over a period of eighteen months. Returning from Texas in June, the follow- 
ing September he went to Vassal boro Township, Kennebec Co., Me., where, 
September 19, 1860, he was married to a former schoolmate at Tappan Sem- 
inary, Miss Lvicy L., daughter of Benjamin and Elizabeth Homans, of that 
place, and returned with his bride to Portage County. Two children were the 
result of this union: Stephen G. O., born December 26, 1867, and Frederick 
B., bom March 5, 1872. He engaged in farming near Campbellsport. The 
war breaking out in 1861, our subject was among the first to offer his services 
in defense of the Union, and organized a company of artillery, which was 
afterward consolidated with Company I, First Regiment Ohio Volunteer Light 
Artillery, of which he was elected First Lieutenant. They reported soon 
afterward for service at Charleston, W. Va., on the Kanawha River. In June, 
1862, while convalescent at hospital, and some eighty miles inside the Union 
lines, he and his cousin, William King, were taken prisoner by a detachment 
of Ashby's Rebel cavalry. They were kept prisoners at Lynchburg, Staunton, 



836 BIOGRArHICAL SKETCHES: 

Va., Salisbury, and from Salisbury were moved to Libby Prison, at which 
place they were confined ten days, when they were fortunate in being paroled 
and thus escaped the horrors of that prison. Mr. Kinor was then ordered to 
Columbus, Ohio, and was put in command of the paroled prisoners' camp, 
where he remained until his resignation in November, 1862. He then 
returned home and embarked in the milling business at Campbellsport, this 
county, also in company with his brother built the Atlantic Mills at Ravenna, 
and was engaged in this industry two years, since when he has given his entire 
attention to farming. He owns 100 acres partly in and partly adjoining the 
village corporation, where he resides. In politics Capt. King is Democratic. 
He is a member of the Universalist Church. 

PETER KING, grocer and provision dealer, Ravenna, was born June 29, 
1813, in County Clare, Ireland, where his parents, Michael and Ellen King, 
resided until their death. Our subject there married, February 15, 1835, 
Ellen Reidy. In 1848 he came to America to make preparations for his family, 
then sent for them to join him fifteen months thereafter. After spending 
some time in Chittenden County, Vt., they came to Earlville, Ohio, in 1851, 
and finally located in Ravenna, November 9, 1854. Here Mr. King worked 
about seven years on the Cleveland & Pittsburgh Railroad, and was about 
three years engaged in draying. He then established his present business, 
which he has ever since carried on. Of the eleven children born to Mr. and 
Mrs. King, two died in the mother country, and four in America. Those now 
living are Mrs. Mary Carny, Mrs. Bridget Donahue, Mrs. Ellen Gallagher, 
Mrs. Maggie Hopper, and Elizabeth, a graduate of St. Mary's Academy, Notre 
Dame, Ind., and who has been for several years successfully engaged in teach- 
ing. Their son, Michael, was killed in an explosion on the Cleveland & Pitts- 
burgh Railroad, at Hanover, Ohio, March 11, 1862. He was an upright and 
promising young man, and left many friends. Mr. King and his entire family 
are members of the Catholic Church, of which he is one of the pillars, and 
was largely influential in establishing and building it up at Ravenna. 

BERNARD KINNEY, capitalist, Ravenna, was born in Corracloona, 
County Leitrim, Ireland, June 24, 1830, and there married Miss Mary Gil- 
bride. They immigrated to America in 1855, came at once to Ohio and settled 
in Ravenna in about two years thereafter. Here our subject acted as Section 
Boss on the Cleveland & Pittsburgh Railroad for about fifteen years. He 
opened a grocery and provision store in Ravenna, which was carried on by his 
family for about four years previous to his retirement from the railroad. He 
has also been engaged in several successful real estate dealings, purchasing 
tracts of timber land and developing and improving them. B^e purchased in 
1866 what was known as the old State Bank Building, which he still occupies; 
besides this he has built and established a grocery store for his son, and he 
owns several other valuable pieces of property in various parts of the city. 
He is agent for three Atlantic Ocean steamship companies, viz.: the Cunard, 
the Williams & Guion and the Anchor lines. To Mr. and Mrs. Kinney have 
been born ten children: James, Mary Ann (now Sister Cammillus in the Ursu- 
line Convent, Toledo, Ohio), John, Catherine (deceased). Rose (a teacher in 
the Catholic school, and organist in the church at this place), Sarah (died Sep- 
tember 10, 1883), Bernard, Thomas, Agnes and Charley. Mr. and Mrs. Kin- 
ney and their entire family are consistent members of the Catholic Clmrch. 
Onr subject was the leading spirit in establishing and building up the church 
at Ravenna. 

EDWARD KNAPP, manufacturer, Ravenna, was born January 23, 1820, 
in Charlestown, this county. His father, Junia Knapp, a native of Connec- 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 837 

ticut, went to Northampton, Mass., in early boyhood with his pai'ents. There 
he married Miss Martha Edwards, and the entire family then came to this 
county and settled in Charlestown Township, in 1815. The family of Junia 
and Martha (Edwards) Knapp consisted of six girls, of whom three now live, 
and six boys, of whom live are now living. Edward, Robert, Dwight, and Mrs. 
Sallie M. Palmer all reside in Ravenna. The parents moved to Ravenna in 
1865, Mr. Knapp, dying October 2 of the same year, and his widow April 
30, 1867. Our subject remained with his parents and assisted them in con- 
ducting the farm. He married, September 15, 1857, Mrs. Charlotte C. Parker, 
of Chester, Conn., where her father, Ely Dickenson, resided until his death. 
Mr. and Mrs. Knapp moved to Ravenna in 1860. Here our subject carried on 
a foundry on Main Street, in partnership with his brothers, Robert, Dwight 
and Henry, until their establishment was destroyed by fire in August, 1876. 
Our subject then built the foundry near Pittsburgh depot, which he carried on 
nntil October, 1875. He now rents it to the Haley Bros. He established 
a pump factory in partnership with his brother Robert in 1875, and they have 
since carried on the only pump factory in Ravenna. They manufacture a com- 
plete line of suction, force and rubber bucket pumps. Their goods have an 
excellent reputation, and are sold throughout Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania 
and other Eastern and Southern States. Mrs. Knapp is an adherent of the 
Baptist faith. Mr. Knapp is a F. & A. M. Robert Knapp was born April 8, 
1828. He married Elizabeth Carson, October 4, 1854. Their children are 
Mrs. Clara A. Linton and Arthur D. 

W. S. KRAKE, Postmaster, Ravenna, was born in Jefferson County, N. 
Y. , in 1840, son of James and Sally (Wadsworth) Krake, natives of New York 
State (both deceased.) James Krake, who was a manufacturer of fanning- 
mills in Jefferson County, was prominently identified with and was an officer in 
the State militia. Our subject was but twelve years of age when his father 
died. He enlisted in 186'2 in the Fifth New York Volunteer Infantry, receiv- 
ing promotion to Second Lieutenant, in which rank he was discharged at the 
close of three years' service. He participated in the battles of Shenandoah 
Valley, at Winchester, and in the general skirmishes, serving most of the 
time, however, on detailed duty. He carae to this county soon after the war 
and engaged as salesman in a dry goods and clothing business. In May, 
1869, he was appointed Assistant Postmaster at Ravenna, and in April, 1873, 
was promoted to be Postmaster by President Grant, occupying the position to 
the present time. Mr. Krake was married in Lewis County, N. Y., in 1861, 
to Amelia U. Mitchel, who bore him one child — Florence M., an active assist- 
ant to her father. Mr. Krake is a F. & A. M., a member of the I. O. O. F. 
and R. A. 

JAMES LIKENS, farmer, P. O. Ravenna, was born October 17, 1816, in 
Brighton, Beaver Co., Penn. His parents, Thomas and Juda Likens, came to 
this county in April, 1888, and after living three years in Rootstown Town- 
ship finally settled across the line in Ravenna Township. Thomas Likens was 
a soldier of the war of 1812, and followed the occupation of iron molder 
before locating here. He was one of the old- time Democrats, and took an 
active part in public affairs. He served the township as Trustee one term. He 
died February 12, 1872, aged eighty-four years. His widow followed him May 
20, 1880, in her ninety-fifth year. They were pious members of the Lutheran 
Church. Of their nine children, six are now living: James, Lewis, Thomas 
and Mrs. Alvira Hartle, in Ravenna Township, this county; Mrs. Emma J. 
Hartle, in Rootstown Township, this county, and Josiah, in Iowa. Our subject 
married, March 6, 1851, Miss Mary M. Caris, born July 15, 1828, and daugh- 



838 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

ter of John and Elizabeth Cauis, of Rootstown Township (now decieased). To 
this union have been born three children now living: Ellery O. , James Calvin 
and Hattie Minerva. John W. died in infancy, and Mettie M. died at four- 
teen years of age. Since their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Likens have resided on 
the farm which they now own. Here they have a line property of eighty acres 
of well-improved land. Mr. Likens is a consistent member of the Lutheran 
Church. In politics he is a life-long Democrat. 

ISAIAH LINTON, civil engineer, Ravenna, was born September 29, 1817, 
in Washington County, Penn., whei'e his parents, Mahlon and Ann (Hillis) 
Linton, resided until their death. At eighteen years of age our subject 
entered the engineer service of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, on which he 
was engaged for four years. He was then employed on the Pittsburgh & Con- 
nellsville Railroad until 1847, when he came to Ohio and entered the service 
of the Cleveland & Pittsburgh Road as Assistant Engineer, on which he has 
since remained. In 1840 Mr. Linton married Miss Victoria Dutton, of "Wash- 
ington County, Penn. She died in 1844, leaving one daughter — Mrs. Ellen 
Galway, of West Virginia. Mr. Linton afterward married, in 1849, Miss Mary 
Riley, of Brownsville, Penn., and in 1852 they settled in Ravenna, where they 
have since resided. Their children are William H., Luther (deceased) and 
Edith. William H. married Miss Clara Knapp, of this place. He has also 
adopted the profession of civil engineer, and is engaged on the Cleveland & 
Pittsburgh Railroad with his father. Mr. Linton has held the position of 
Trustee of Ravenna about four years; has been on the Board of Education 
two years; has held the office of County Surveyor from 1862 to 1864, and was 
mainly influential in the establishment of the Ravenna Gas Light & Coke 
Company, of which he has been President since it organization in 1873. In 
politics our subject is a Republican. 

SQUIRE ELEAZER LORD, dealer in real estate, Ravenna, was born 
December 17, 1823, in Norwich, Conn. His parents, Lynds and Priscilla 
(Potter) Lord, natives of the same place, lived in Fairview, Erie Co., Penn., 
from 1829 to 1836, and in Ellsworth, Trumbull (now Mahoning) Co., Ohio, 
from 1836 to 1858. Lynds Lord died in April, 1856, and in 1858 his widow 
and the family came to Ravenna. Here the mother died in March, 1876. 
They raised a family of nine children: Mary A., died in 1871; Rev. Nathan 
L., was a graduate of Hudson College and a missionary to the East Indies (he 
died in New York City in January, 1868); Mrs. Carrie P. Bingham, in Santa 
Barbara, Cal. ; Rufus, in Durand, 111.; Charles F., in Chicago, 111.; David H., 
was born December 5, 1827, married Henrietta F. Bingham September 29, 
1853 (their children are Mrs. Laura A. Sanford, in Le Sueur, Minn.; Helen H., 
Ginevra J. ; Frank L. ; Mary B. , and Hattie G. Mr. Lord settled in Ravenna in 
1873,where he has been chiefly engaged in dealing in real estate); Eleazer; Laura; 
A., died in Ellsworth in 1851; William Thomas, died in St. Louis in 1859. 
Our subject received his education in the academies at Ellsworth, Ohio, and 
Fredonia, N. Y. He married, April 8, 1865, Miss Mary, daughter of Thomas 
and Mary Lewis, of Palmyra, Ohio. They have one daughter, Lydia C, and 
one son, Louis E. Squire Lord has been for sixteen years a very successful 
dealer in real estate. He was elected Justice of the Peace in July, 1872, and 
again in April, 1876. In politics he is a Republican. Mrs. Lord is a mem- 
ber of the Congregational Church. 

BYRON B. LOUGHEAD, A. B., M. D., Ravenna, was born January 29, 
1847, in Charlestown Township, this county. His father, Richard W. Longh- 
ead, a native of Pennsylvania, came to Hiram Township, this county, and here 
married Miss Maria Foster, daughter of the pioneers, Eliakim and Wealthy 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 839 

Poster, of Mantua Township, this county, and who came from Williamstown, 
Mass., to this county, in about 1835, residing in Mantua the remainder of their 
lives. Our subject's parents resided in Charlestown Township, this county, 
about thirteen years, finally settling in Windham Township in February, 1858. 
The mother died January 28, 1884; the father still resides in Windham Cen- 
ter. Our subject, after receiving instruction in the schools of the home dis- 
trict and the academy in Windham and attending two years at Hiram College, 
entered upon a course of study at Oberlin, Ohio, and graduated from that 
institution with the degree of A. B. in 1875. He supported himself entirely 
by teaching between the sessions. He held the position of Principal of the 
high school at Tallmadge, Ohio, two winters. After his graduation he at 
once entered upon the study of medicine under Dr. T. C. Miller, of Cleveland, 
Ohio, Professor of Obstetrics in the medical department of the University of 
Wooster, Ohio, at which institution he took the degree of M. D. February 28, 
1877. He then located in the practice of his chosen profession in Windham, 
this county. In January and February of 1883 he took a post-graduate course 
in the New York Polyclinic. In September, 1884, the Doctor established in 
Ravenna, where he has rapidly built up an influential practice. He is genial 
and courteous in manner, and is recognized as a skillful and scientific physi- 
cian. Dr. Loughead married, October 31, 1878, Miss Mary Alvord, of Bolton, 
Conn., and they have two children: Charles Foster and Mary Alvord. Mrs. 
Loughead graduated in the ladies' course at Oberlin College in 1874. Our sub- 
ject and wife are members of the Congregational Church, the Doctor having 
joined at Windham when but eighteen years of age. 

DARIUS LYMAN (deceased), born at Goshen, Litchfield Co., Conn., July 
19, 1789, died at Cleveland, Ohio, December 13, 1867, aged seventy-six years, 
five months. He graduated at Williams College in the class of 1810. Soon 
after he entered the law school at Litchfield, then under the charge of Judge 
Gould, where by diligent application to his studies he soon won the respect of 
his distinguished teacher and all those who were associated with him. After 
leaving the Litchfield Law School he went to Pittsburgh, Penn., and in order 
to more fully perfect his legal studies he spent several months in the law office 
of Hon. Henry Baldwin, subsequently one of the Judges of the Supreme 
Court of the United States. In the spring of 1814 he came to this county, 
was admitted to the bar, and established himself permanently in his profession 
in Ravenna. He was soon appointed Prosecuting Attorney of the county, and 
in 1816 was elected to the lower branch of the Legislature for two years. In 
1828 he was elected to the State Senate, where he served two terms ending in 
1832. In the fall of the latter year he was the anti-Masonic candidate for Gov- 
ernor, and was defeated by Robert Lucas by a small majority. Judge Lyman 
has ever been regarded * one of the pioneer lawyers of Portage County. 
Although not a brilliant advocate, his thorough knowledge of legal principles, 
his unswerving integrity and love of justice gave him great influence with 
both court and jury, which made him a formidable competitor. For some 
years he was in partnership with the late Hon. Luther Day. Judge Lyman 
acquired an extensive practice in Portage and adjoining counties. His well- 
balanced, clear and discriminating mind, inflexible uprightness and unsullied 
purity of heart won the confidence and esteem of all who knew him. He was 
an ardent friend of education, and for many years an efficient member of the 
Board of Trustees of the Western Reserve College. He early identified him- 
self with the Free Soil party, and in 1850 was elected to the State Senate on 
that ticket. This was his last service as legislator. In 1855 he was elected 
Probate Judge of Portage County, was re-elected and occupied the position 



840 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : 

until 1864. After retiring from the Judgeship he removed to Cleveland, Ohio, 
where he lived to the time of his death. Our subject was twice married. He 
was the father of six children, some of them dying young. His eldest son, 
Prof. Darius Lyman, for nearly twenty years has held an important position 
in the Treasury Department at Washington, D. C. Henry D. Lyman, his 
grandson, is now Second Assistant Postmaster-General. His daughter, Laura, 
is the widow of the late Hon. William S. C. Otis, of Cleveland, Ohio. The 
other surviving children are Mrs. Mary L. Hood, of Minneapolis, Minn., and 
Mrs. Anna L. Wood worth, of St. Louis, Mo. In all his relations as a citizen 
Judge Lyman was a worthy exemplar; opposed to all forms of oppression, he 
was ever guided by the highest principles of honor and rectitude; his heart 
and hands wero ever ready to do all in his power to preserve peace and order 
in the community and to improve and elevate society. 

JOHN S. MARVIN, dealer in lumber, Ravenna, was born in Lancaster, 
Niagara (now Erie) Co., N. Y., May 30, 1831. The family are descended 
from the well-known Marvins, fii-st settlers at Saybrook, Conn. His immediate 
ancestors for four generations were residents of Litchfield County, Conn. His 
great-grandparents died of small-pox contracted from Burgoyne's Army, then 
passing through the country. His mother died in Lancaster, N. Y. , when he 
was four years of age, and his father returned to Connecticut, where he resided 
until his death. Our subject learned the shoe-maker's trade under the old 
apprentice system, in Litchfield County, Conn., and came to Ravenna, Ohio, 
June 25, 1855. After spending two years in traveling in Kentucky and Ten- 
nessee, he finally' settled here in 1857, and was in the boot, shoe and leather 
business until 1867. Here he married, November 20, 1859, Miss Sarah M. 
W^oodruff, daughter of Chancy and Perlina Woodruff, who came in 1830 from 
Hartford, Conn., to Atwater Township, this county, where Mrs. Marvin was 
born April 30, 1837. To our subject and wife have been born eight children: 
Anna L., Fannie C. (deceased), Charles L., Lydia Perlina, John C, Edward 
W., Rollie Hutchuson, William Bray. Our subject and wife have resided in 
Ravenna since their marriage, with the exception of fifteen years (1867 to 
1882) spent on a farm in the western part of the township. Mr. Marvin pur- 
chased an interest in the lumber yard with Robert Smith in 1874. Our sub- 
ject, wife and eldest daughter are members of the Universalist Church. Mr. 
and Mrs. Marvin were kindly remembered by their numerous friends on the 
twenty-fifth anniversary of their wedding, November 20, 1884, on which occa- 
sion they received many beautiful and valuable presents. 

JOHN MEHARG, attorney, Ravenna, is a native of County Down, Ire- 
land, where he was born in 1839; son of James and Margaret (Bingham) 
Meharg (both now deceased) who immigrated to this country in 1852, and 
located on a farm at Cantield, Ohio. Here our subject was brought up and 
his early education was obtained in the Mahoning Academy at Canfield, where 
he began the study of law, but in 1862 he entered the army as Sergeant in 
Company H, One Hundred and Fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving to the 
close of the war. He shared the fortunes of the Army of the Cumberland, 
joining the forces of Sherman in his memorable march to the sea, and after 
passing through the grand review at Washington, D. C. , was mustered out. 
He resumed the study of law with S. W. Gilson, of Canfield; was admitted 
to the bar in 1865, and formed a partnership with Ta} lor and Horton that was 
continued until 1872, when he was elected Clerk of the Courts, in which 
capacity he served nine years. His relations with the same firm were renewed 
and continued until the death of Mr. Horton in September, 1882, since when 
he has been associated with Judge Taylor, of Warren, Ohio. Mr. Meharg was 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 841 

appointed Prosecuting Attorney to fill the unexpired term of Mr. Horton; 
served as Mayor five years; was a member of the Board of Education, and 
some years Justice of the Peace, He became interested in the Ravenna Repub- 
lican in 1882, and now owns that publication. He is an adherent of the Dis- 
ciples Cliurch; a member of the I. O. O. F. and G, A. R. He is a F. & A. M. 

A. MOSLEY (see history of press, page 368.) 

S. D. NORTON, attorney, Ravenna. The name Norton, a contraction of 
North-town or North-ville, is of English origin. It is properly Norville, and 
the first known to bear it in this country were two brothers, Richard and 
Thomas, the former landing in America in 1620, the latter in 1635; one set- 
tling in Massachusetts, the other at Martha's Vineyard. The great-grand- 
father of our subject, Bethuel, was an explorer, employed by the British Gov- 
ernment. He served in the French-English and the Revolutionary wars, and 
was one of the soldiers who scaled the Heights of Abraham. Our subject was 
born in Springfield, Summit Co., Ohio, in 1825; son of Thuel and Harriet 
(Harrington) Norton, the former of whom, with his father, Peter, immigrated 
to this State in 1807, and settled in Summit County, thence removing to 
Hiram Township, this county, in 1832, where he died. He was a carpenter by 
trade, and raised a family of nine children, eight of whom are living. Our 
subject was reared on a farm and learned the blacksmith trade, which he 
abandoned for the law, the study of which he pursued after having received a 
common school education, and was associated with Charles "W. O'Neil, one of 
the best lawyers of the State, his practice being largely in Allen and Hancock 
Counties. He located in Garrettsville in 1858, and five years later removed to 
Ravenna, where he has since resided. He was married, in 1845, to Miss Maria 
Wetherell, a native of New York, and they are the parents of the following 
children: Adelaide, wife of George Nichols; Julia M., wife of S. R. Poe; 
Lilia, wife of N. P. Catlin; and Emma. He has served two terms as Mayor 
of Ravenna; is at present Justice of the Peace; has been twice run for Pro- 
bate Judge and came near being elected, though his party is largely in the 
minority, and is a man well known and highly respected. 

J. H. OAKLEY, photographer, Ravenna, was born in Charlestown Township, 
this county, December 9, 1842. His father, Abram Oakley, was a native -of 
England, but left that country while yet a mere boy and located for a number 
of years in Canada, going thence to the State of New York, and finally remov- 
ing to Portage County, being among the earliest settlers of Charlestown Town- 
ship. In 1844 he removed to this township, where he continued to reside 
until some time after the death of his wife, Minerva (Beach) Oakley, which 
occurred in 1860. In 1865 he went to Indiana, having a daughter residing at 
Elkhart, at whose home he died in 1867. Their children, four in number, are 
all living, viz.: Maria J., Julia A., John H. and Mary C. At the outbreak of 
the Rebellion our subject was among the first to respond to the call for volun- 
teers, and enlisted for the three mouths' service in Company G, Seventh Ohio 
Volunteer Infantry. In October, 1861, he re-enlisted for three years in Bat- 
tery I, First Ohio Volunteer Light Artillery, and served therein until Decem- 
ber 9, 1864, when he was honorably discharged by reason of expiration of 
term of service. He participated in many of the important battles of the war, 
among them being the second battle of Bull Run, and the engagements at 
McDowell, Cross Keys, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Mission Ridge and all the 
battles of the Atlanta campaign. In January, 1865, he took up the study of 
his profession, and in July of that year formed a partnership with his precep- 
tor, Mr. Ford, whom he succeeded the following year, and has since carried 
on the business alone. In September, 1884, he occupied Room No. 4 in the 



842 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Opera House Block on the ground floor, having a depth of 120 feet, with new 
skylight and operating room. In addition to his regular photographic work, 
which ranks among the very best in the State, he is a large dealer in pictures, 
frames, art goods, etc. Mr. Oakley was married in 1872 to Miss Isodene E. 
Horr, a native of Shalersville, this county, and has two sons: Harry B. and 
Warren B. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., Encampment, Royal Arcanum 
and G. A. R. 

LE GRAND A. OLIN, County Auditor, Ravenna, was born in Streets- 
boro Township, this county, August 17, 1844, grandson of Arvin Olin, and 
son of Ransom and Clarissa M. (Clark) Olin. The family settled in Franklin 
Township, where Arvin served as Justice of the Peace some years and lived 
to the close of his life. Ransom Olin filled township offices of trust. He 
reared a family of eleven children, nine of whom are now living: Le Grand 
A., Lemuel V. (of Fairview, Kan.), Letta L. (wife of H. L. Kallenbaugh, of 
Pittsburgh, Penn.), Leverett W. (of Elmdale, Ind.), Leora B. (wife of C. D. 
Banks, of Pittsburgh, Penn.), Lester R. (of Kent), Lena R. (Pittsburgh, 
Penn.), Leila C. (wife of W. D. Logan, of Pittsburgh, Penn.) and Levanche 
A. (wife of Charles Gressard, of Kent). Leroy C. and Leantine N. died 
in childhood. Our subject lived on the farm until twenty-one years of age, 
when he learned the carpenter and joiner's trade, at which he worked 
until crippled by a fall at Moscow, Livingston Co., N. Y., in the autumn of 
1868. This accident caused paralysis of the limbs, of which he has but little 
use. Subsequently he learned telegraphing, which he followed until elected 
to the position of Auditor of this county in the fall of 1880, and is now serv- 
ing his second term. Our subject was married in 1865 to Miss Laura A. , 
daughter of William R. Allen, of Livingston County, N. Y. 

WILLIAM SHAW CHANDLER OTIS (deceased), son of William Otis, 
was born in Cummington, Mass., August 24, 1807. In 1825 his father immi- 
grated to Ohio, leaving his son to make his way through college. After grad- 
uating he accepted the position of Principal of Gates Academy, Marlboro, 
Mass., where he remained one year. In the fall of 1831 he removed to Ohio, 
where he read law in the office of Messrs. Whittlesey & Newton, in Canfield. 
He was admitted to the bar in September, 1833, and commenced the practice 
of law in Ravenna. He subsequently removed to Akron, in the adjoining 
county of Summit; was Prosecuting Attorney of that county for two years, 
and in 1850 and 1851 was a member of the convention which formed the pres- 
ent Constitution of Ohio. He was President of the Akron branch of the State 
Bank of Ohio from its organization in 1847 until January, 1854, and, during 
most of that period, was a member of the Board of Control of the State Bank 
of Ohio. In January, 1854, Mr. Otis was elected Vice-President of the Cleve- 
land & Pittsburgh Railroad Company, and removed to Cleveland to enter 
upon the duties of that office. At the expiration of the year be resumed the 
practice of his profession at Cleveland, where he resided till the date of his 
death. He was soon appointed Attorney and Counsellor of the Cleveland & 
Pittsburgh Railroad Company, which position he tilled for more than fourteen 
years with distinguished ability. Mr. Otis was first married January 1, 1836, 
to Miss Hannah Mvgatt, daughter of the late Comfort Mygatt, Esq., of Can- 
field, Ohio. Mrs. Otis died April 11, 1840, without children. Mr. Otis was 
again married November 1, 1842, to Miss Laura Lyman, daughter of Hon. 
Darius Lyman, of Ravenna. He had six children, four of whom are now liv- 
ing. Mr. Otis died at Cleveland, Ohio, July 31. 1879. As a brilliant advocate, 
able counsellor and sagacious manager, Mr. Otis occupied the front rank in 
his profession. 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 843 

SYLVESTER J. PARMELEE, sou of Leonard and Harriet (Day) Par- 
melee, was born in West Springfield, Mass., January 31, 1826, and came to 
Ravenna in November, 1840. He was in early life a teacher, and was for six 
years a member of the firm of L. Parmelee & Sons, steam flouring-mill. He 
married, July 17, 1855, Miss C. Lorane Hall, born in Charlestown, this 
county, October 6, 1827, and daughter of Giles and Louisa Hall. She came 
to Ravenna in 1836. In 1845 she went South and was engaged for eight years 
teaching in Tennessee and Mississippi. She did very noble and useful work 
in her profession, and endeared herself to the hearts of the young ladies under 
her charge, and the people among whom she labored. Mr. and Mrs. Parmelee 
now reside at Oakwood, their farm of twenty acres adjoining the city limits. 
They are earnest members of the Congregational Church. 

ROBERT S. PEACOCK, pi-oduce, grain and coal merchant, Ravenna, was 
born February 13, 1827, in Camden County, N. J., where he was brought up 
on his father's farm, and received his education in the schools of the home 
district. His parents, William and Margaret Peacock, of Scotch and English 
descent, but natives of New Jersey through several generations, resided on 
their farm in that State until their death. Our subject learned the trade of 
glass cutter, and came to Kent (Franklin Mills), this county, when twenty-one 
years of age. He married, June 23, 1853, Miss Mary Jane, daughter of Ben- 
jamin and Rachel Phillips, and to this union have been born four children: 
Addie (deceased), Robert G., May and James W. After working several years 
at his trade he went on a farm, and in six years returned to Kent, finally 
locating in Ravenna in 1808. Here Benjamin Phillips died in 1876, aged 
about seventy-two. After working some years at his trade in the Diamond 
Glass Factory, Mr. Peacock engaged in the wholesale produce business in 1875. 
He handles a general line of farmers' products, but now devotes himself prin- 
cipally to cheese. In 1882 he added a coal yard and grain office to his bus- 
iness, making his eldest son a partner in that branch of the industry. Mr. 
and Mrs. Peacock and two youngest children are members of the Congrega- 
tional Church. In politics he is a Republican. 

ISAAC PHELPS, retired, Ravenna, was born in Berkshire County, Mass., 
September 12, 1809; son of Zacheus and Rebecca Pbelps, both of Puritan 
stock. Lewis Phelps, brother of our subject, located in Freedom Township, 
this county, in 1830, the latter in same township, in 1837. Our subject began 
dealing in stock and has made thirty- seven trips overland, generally by way of 
Buflfalo, with stock which he sold in the land of his nativity. He subsequently 
engaged in the dairy business and since his retirement has erected sixteen 
houses on the west side of Ravenna, thereby adding to its growth and improve- 
ment. His marriage with Lucinda Sage, of Berkshire, Mass., occurred in 
1832. She died in 1875, in the sixty -sixth year of her age, the mother of ten 
children, four of whom survive: Simeon S., Isaac H., Rodney L. and Mark 
W. An infant son, George Y., died July 24. 1842, aged six weeks; Charles 
T. died February 12, 1867, aged twelve years; H. Dwight died July 2, 1869, 
aged thirty-three years; Hattie S. died February 9, 1872, aged twenty-three 
years; Darwin E. died December 1, 1874, aged forty-one years, and Mary H. 
died March 24, 1878, aged thirty-nine years. Mr. Phelps married on second 
occasion, February 11, 1877, Mrs. Mary J., widow of Jerome Hinckley. The 
family is among the oldest and most respected in this locality. 

THOMAS G. PHILLIPS, life insurance agent, Ravenna, was born Sep- 
tember 3, 1822, in Plaseyrhendy, Clydeu Parish, Pembrokeshire, South Wales. 
His parents — Caleb and Sarah Phillips — brought their family to America and 
settled in Palmyra, this county, in 1837. They spent the latter years of their 



844 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

lives in Paris Township, this county, where they died, the mother January 7, 
1866, ag^ed seventy, the father March 23, 1869, aged seventy-seven. Of their 
nine children, two died in Wales; two died in this county: John, who was a 
soldier in the war of the Rebellion, and Mrs. Sarah Morgan; five are now liv- 
ing: William, in Newport Station, Ohio; Evan, in Detroit, Mich. ; Anna, in New- 
port Station, Ohio; Mrs. Mary Jenkins, in Summit County, Ohio, and Thomas 
G. Our subject came to Ravenna in 1838 at sixteen years of age, where he 
learned the cabinet-maker's trade. He carried on an establishment at Freedom 
from 1843 to 1846. There he married, May 1, 1844, Miss Delia M.. daughter 
of Rev. John Hill, born in Monroe, Ashtabula Co., Ohio, and located in Free- 
dom in 1843. To this union have been born live children: George Myron, 
Cashier of the First National Bank of Northfield, Minn, (he was a Lieuten- 
ant in the One Hundred and Twenty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry during the 
latter part of the war of the Rebellion); Morton H, in Philadelphia (he was a 
private in the first Ohio regiment formed); Mrs. Laura Beers, in Cleveland, 
Ohio; Mrs. Lucy L. Smith, in Ravenna, Ohio, and one that died in infancy. 
Mr. Phillips carried on the furniture business from 1846 to 1872, with the 
exception of three years — 1859 to 1862. He also dealt extensively in real 
estate, purchasing lots, putting suitable buildings and making improvements 
on them and then selling. In 1872 he was appointed agent of the Equitable 
Life Assurance Society of New York for Portage and Trumbull Counties. He 
rapidly built up the company's business in this locality, and received the 
appointment of general agent for the State of Ohio July 1, 187-4, which posi- 
tion he still holds. Mr. and Mrs. Phillips are members of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church. 

DEACON ADAM POE (deceased) was a son of the famous Indian tighter, 
Andrew Poe, and a cousin of the poet Edgar Allan Poe. He was born in 
Beaver County, Penn., April 4, 1791; came to this county in 1819, and pur- 
chased 200 acres of land two miles west of Ravenna. He returned to Penn- 
sylvania, where he married Miss Eliza Laughlin, in 1825, and again came to 
this county in 1828. Here he resided until his death, which occurred Janu- 
ary 5, 1859. He was a professor of religion when thirteen years of age; 
joined the Congregational Church in 1829, and was a Deacon from 1831 till 
the day of his death. 

JOHN PORTER, Clerk of Courts, Ravenna, was born in Dublin, Ireland, 
March 1, 1849, and was brought to this country by his parents when an infant. 
At the age of eleven years he was adopted by the Children's Aid Society of 
New York City, and with others sent to this county, where he found a home in 
the family of James H. Porter, of Freedom Township, with whom he remained 
about three years, when he began the struggle of life for himself, securing 
employment mostly on farms. In 1865 he visited the oil regions of Pennsylva- 
nia and of Trumbull County, Ohio, returning to Portage County in 1867. He 
made his home with William Hine, of Shalersville, and attended college at 
Hiram and Mt. Union. In 1870 he engaged in teaching, subsequently accept- 
ing a position as Principal of the school at Uniontown, Stark County. In 1872 
he began the study of law in the office of Hart & Reed, in Ravenna, and in 
1874 was admitted to the bar, but accepted a position as traveling salesman 
until 1878, when he opened a law-office at Mantua Station. In the fall of 1881 he 
was elected Clerk of the Courts, and this position he has very acceptably tilled. 
Mr. Porter was married January 1, 1877, to Miss Anna E. Hine, of Shalers- 
ville, this county, by whom he has one daughter — Hester E. 

JOHN L. RANNEY, deceased, Avas born in Blandford, Mass., November 
14, 1815. His parents, Rufus and Dolly Ranney, moved to Freedom Town- 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 845 

ship, this county, in 1824, where they resided until their death. Of their 
family but two are now living: Judge R. P., of Cleveland, Ohio, and Mrs. 
Mary Marc}', of Geauga County, Ohio. Our subject was a close student and 
in boyhood was often engaged until late at nights studying by the light of a 
hickory-wood tire. He attended school one year in Ravenna, and studied the 
profession of law in the offices of Judge Ranney and Ben Wade, of Ashtabula, 
Ohio. He married, February 26, 1836, Miss Eliza E. Remington. She was 
a native of Tolland, Mass., and in 1835 came to Freedom Township, this 
county, at sixteen years of age, with her parents, Josiah and Sallie Remington. 
To this union were born six children: Mrs. Mary Ann Hotchkiss (deceased), 
Joseph N. (deceased), Lewis R. (deceased — he was a soldier of the One 
Hundred and Seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry at the close of the war), Mrs. 
Sarah C. McDonald (in Cleveland, Ohio), Flora Adelaide and Rufus H. 
(deceased). Mr. Ranney was admitted to the bar in 1839, and in 1840 located 
in Ravenna in the practice of his chosen prof ession. Mr. Ranney died Febru- 
ary 22, 1866. He was a lawyer of rare ability, and a citizen of wide influence. 
He was for many yeai's President of the First National Bank of Ravenna. His 
memory will long be revered by his surviving associates and the citizens of 
Portage County. Mrs. Ranney afterward married, November 25, 1874, D. C. 
Day, and they now reside at the family homestead. 

C. A. REED, Probate Judge, Ravenna, comes of Connecticut stock, a 
grandson of Abraham Reed, who settled in this county in 1804 and died in 
1859. Horace, eldest son of Abraham Reed and father of our subject, was 
born in Rootstown in 1805, and at this writing is residing on the homestead 
where he was born. He married Lois E. Baldwin, daughter of John Bald- 
win, who came from Massachusetts and settled in Charlestown, this county, in 
1811, and by her were born seven children, all now living: Melissa E., wife 
of E. E. Chapman, of Rootstown; Aryanett E., wife of A. Baldwin, of Akron, 
Ohio; John-H. , of Columbus, Neb.; Edward A., Poplar Creek, Tenn. ; Cor- 
nelius A.; Horace L., of Mansfield, Ohio, and Julia A. Our subject was born 
in Rootstown, this county, July 3, 1838. He worked on the farm and attended 
school until his twentieth year, when he entered the Normal School at 
Lebanon. In 1861 he began the study of law under Col. B. Burns and Judge 
Dickey at Mansfield, Ohio, and was admitted to the bar in July, 1863. In 
September, 1863, he formed a partnership with A. Hart in the practice of the 
profession at Ravenna. This lasted about twelve years, after which Mr. Reed 
continued the practice alone until he was elected to his present position in 
1881. He was elected Prosecuting Attorney in 1869, occupying the office four 
years. Our subject was married February 1, 1865, to Miss PhebeF. , daughter 
of Capt. Albert Ray, of Nantucket, Mass. Two children were born to this 
union, both now living: Lorena B. and Julia May. The family is connected 
with the Congregational Church, and Judge Reed is at present Superintendent 
of the Sabbath-school. He is a Knight Templar. 

JAMES REYNOLDS, Road-master of the Cleveland, Lorain & Wheeling 
Railroad, P. O. Ravenna, was born May 12, 1822, in County Antrim. Ireland, 
and is a son of William and Bridget Reynolds. He early adopted the life of 
a railroad man and was engaged on the Carlisle & Lancaster Road, England, 
the Edinburgh & Berwick, the Hawick & Edinburgh and the Kircaldie & Dundee 
Roads, in Scotland, and the Londonderry & Strabane Road, Ireland. Coming 
to America October 16, 1849, he was engaged on the Cleveland, Columbus, 
Cincinnati & Indianapolis Road ten months, and on the Cleveland & Pitts- 
burgh Road from 1850 to 1861. He then served tsvelve years on the Atlantic 
& Great Westei-n, and after being ten months on the Pittsburgh, Cincinnati 

45 



846 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

& St. Louis Road, he accepted the position which he now holds. He has been 
a very successful railroad manager, having held important positions. In 1883 
he was presented with a handsome gold watch and chain by the officers and 
employes of the Cleveland, Lorain & Wheeling Road, as a mark of esteem. 
Mr. Reynolds married Miss Almira O'Brien, of Stowe, Summit Co. , Ohio, in 
1853. She died in 1854, leaving one daughter — Almira (now deceased). 
Our subject then married, in 1860, Miss Susan Clark, a native of Canada, who 
bore him five sons: James, Jr. (an engineer on the Cleveland, Columbus, Cin- 
cinnati & Indianapolis Road), R. Emmett and William J. (twins), Francis D. 
and Henry. In 1870 Mr. Reynolds purchased and located on his present farm 
of 115 acres near Ravenna. He and his family are members of the Catholic 
Church. He assisted liberally in building the church in Ravenna. He is a 
F. & A. M., 32°. 

WILLIAM RICHARDSON, Supervisor of the Cleveland & Pittsburgh 
Railroad. P. O. Ravenna, was born in 1830 in Dalkeith on the River Esk, 
Scotland, where his parents, John and Jeanette Richardson, have since resided. 
Our subject received his education in his mother countrj' and there married 
Miss Agnes Downie. They left Glasgow for America June 1, 1851, and after 
living one year in Pomeroy, Ohio, they located at Ravenna, this county, where 
they have ever since resided. Their children are John, Alexander, William, 
James, Jeanette and George. On July 1, 1852, Mr. Richardson began working 
for the Cleveland & Pittsburgh Railroad Company, with whom he has been 
employed ever since. He has held his present position since 1870. He dis- 
charges his duties faithfully and enjoys the entire confidence of the company 
with which he is employed. In 1876 Mr. Richardson purchased a farm of 
sixty-two and one-half acres of well -improved land two miles north of Ravenna, 
to which he and his family moved in 1877. The subject of this sketch is a 
man of large and powerful physique. He is a citizen of upright character, 
highly respected by the entire community. 

GEORGE ROBINSON (deceased), late civil engineer, banker and capital- 
ist, was born November 21, 1801, in Washington County, Penn., of Scotch- 
Irish descent. When eighteen years of age he lost his father, so he com- 
menced obtaining an education, at the same time supporting himself by his own 
work. He learned the carpenter's trade, but met with an accident which con- 
fined him to his bed two years with a broken leg. During this time he per- 
fected himself in the study of mathematics. He then devoted several years to 
teaching school and preparing for his chosen profession, that of civil engineer. 
In 1830 he became Assistant Engineer on the Ohio Canal, and at its comple- 
tion, in 1835, he engaged on the Pennsylvania & Ohio Canal, locating perma- 
nently at Ravenna, being soon made Chief Engineer. He retained that posi- 
tion until his retirement from the canal in 1845. He was Chief Engineer of 
the Cleveland & Pittsburgh Railroad, and its first Superintendent. In 1856 
he engaged on the Cleveland & Mahoning Railroad, remaining its Chief 
Engineer and Superintendent until 1865. In 1854 he became the head of the 
banking house of Robinson, King & Co., and in 1864 the first President of the 
Second National Bank of Ravenna, from which position he retired in 1878, 
remaining a Director until his death. He also established, in 1868, in com- 
pany with D. C. Coolman, the Diamond Glass Works, in which he remained 
until his retirement from business in 1879. His death occurred July 12,1882. 
He was a man of firmness, integrity and perseverance, and made a success of 
everything he undertook. Mr. Robinson married, July 26, 1831, Miss Maria 
Louisa Johnson, at Lancaster, Ohio. She was born in Mifflin, Penn., in 1810, 
and came to Ohio at ten years of age with her parents. To this union were 



RAVENNA TOAVNSHIP. 847 

born the following children: Capt. A. K. Robinson, Mrs. Elizabeth M. Wildes, 
Miss Frances H. Robinson, Lieut. W. Henry Robinson (deceased), Mrs. Emily 
H. Riddle, Capt. George F. Robinson and Mrs. M. Adelaide Hermann. The 
sons were all in the Union Army during the war of the Rebellion, and Henry 
was the first soldier from Ravenna to lose his life in his country's cause. 

RECELLUS ROOT, farmer, P. O. Ravenna, was born May 25, 1816, in 
Denmark, Lewis Co., N. Y., where his parents, Alpheus and Electa (Bardwell) 
Root, resided until their death. Our subject came to Ohio in 1837, and after 
spending a few months in Cuyahoga County, finally located in this county in 
the autumn of that year. Here he married, January 1, 1845, Miss Adeline 
Howard, born in Sistersville, Tyler Co.. Va. (now AY est Virginia), September 
12, 1821, and brought to this place when a year and a half old by her parents, 
Salmon and Ruth (Taylor) Howard, and here Mr. Howard cleared and devel- 
oped a farm, where the parents resided until their death. Mr. Root bought of 
Mr. Howard the homestead place, and has here I'esided since 1847. The chil- 
dren born to Mr. and Mrs. Root are Mrs. Eliza H. King; Edwin R., attorney 
at law. New Y''ork City; Mrs Ollie J. Phelps; John H., agent of the Wheeling 
& Lake Erie Railroad, Medina, Ohio; Arthur W., in the office of the Cleveland, 
Colitmbus, Cincinnati & Indianapolis Railroad, Cleveland, Ohio; Fred and J. 
Wesley. Mr. Root is an ardent Republican. He and his family adhere to 
the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

ALBERT G. RUSSELL, carpenter and joiner, Ravenna, was born in 
1822, in Nantucket, Mass., son of Capt. Reuben and Maria (Gardner) Russell, 
natives of Nantucket, and who came to Rootstown, this county, in 1847. They 
are descendants of the renowned Tristam Coffin, the heroic pioneer of Nan- 
tucket. They purchased a farm in Rootstown Township, this county, where 
they resided until 1873, when they located in Ravenna. Capt. Russell, who 
had been a Captain of whaling vessels since about 1817, died July 2, 1875, 
aged seventy-five years. His widow survives him at the advanced age of eighty - 
four, and is still in full possession of her faculties. Our subject learned his 
trade at Nantucket, and came to this county with his parents at twenty five years 
of age. He married, October 2, 1853, Yliss Caroline Russell, also a native of 
Nantucket, who came to Ravenna in September, 1839, with her parents, Capt. 
George G. and Louisa W. (Wyer) Russell, who resided in Ravenna until their 
death. She died in 1863, and he in 1865. To Mr. and Mrs. Russell have been 
born two children: Maria Louis (deceased at nine years of age) and Fred A., 
an architect, now residing in Boston, Mass. Since their marriage Mr. and 
Mrs. Russell have resided in Ravenna. In 1853 he established a sash, door 
and blind factoiy, in partnership with his brother Reuben and Timothy Chase, 
retaining his connection with the establishment until 1853, since which time 
he has followed his trade. Mrs. Russell is a consistent member of the Con- 
gregational Church. Mr. Russell is a life-long Republican, and takes a deep 
interest in public affairs; one of the most active and earnest workers on the 
Board of Health in this city. 

HENRY SAPP (deceased) was born August 2, 1768, in the State of Mary- 
land, and married Miss Matilda Boosinger, of Oldtown, Va., October 7, 1796. 
He came to Ravenna Township, this county, in 1802, and, after making prep- 
arations for a home, returned and brought his family out in 1803. The prop- 
erty of 100 acres which he settled near Ravenna Village, he bought of Benja- 
min Tappan for $150. Their children who are now living are Henry; Mrs. 
Hannah Hall; Conrad; Jacob, in Y^andalia, 111.; Asa and Daniel F. They 
were among the early members of the Methodist Episcopal Church of this 
place. Mr. Sapp died September 18, 1856. Mrs. Sapp died in April, 1876, 



848 BIOGRArHICAL SKETCHES: 

at the advanced age of one hundred and one years. On the occasion of her 
one hundreth birthday there was a gathering of her descendants at the home- 
stead. At that time the entire number of descendants was ninety-eight, of 
whom seventy-five were living. 

CONRAD SAPP, retired, Ravenna, was born December 1, 1812, in 
Ravenna Township, this county, son of Henry and Matilda (Boosinger) Sapp, 
former a native of Maryland, latter of an adjoining county in Virginia. 
Henry Sapp came in the fall of 1802, to this county, made preparations 
to locate his family, and brought them out in 1803, settling near the cen- 
ter of Ravenna Township, adjoining the city. Of their eleven children, 
six are now living: Henry, Mrs. Hannah Hall, Conrad, Jacob (in Mt. Vernon, 
111.), Asa and Daniel. The father died in 1856, far advanced in years. He 
was a fine specimen of the pioneer, being large, muscular and active, a 
man of temperate habits and sterling integrity. The mother was a woman of 
wonderful energy and endurance. At the age of ninety, she spun flax enough 
to make forty yards of cloth. Her death occurred April 4, 1876, at the advanced 
age of one hundred and one years, and one month. Their memory will long 
be revered by a large circle of descendants, and honored by all who knew them. 
Our subject, when a boy, helped to set the type for the first copy of the first 
paper printed in Ravenna. At the age of twenty one he commenced learning 
tool-making, followed it for ten years, and then entered upon the trade 
of carpenter and joiner, which he made his principal life-work. He was known 
as a skillful mechanic, and had erected a large number of the farm buildings 
and private residences in Ravenna and vicinity. He married, December 8, 1841, 
Miss Clarissa E. Chapman, She died September 12, 1881, and Mr. Sapp 
then married, December 5, 1883, Mrs. Maline L. Phelps, daughter of Charles 
Jones, of Columbiana County, Ohio. This family came from England in 1834, 
where Mrs. Sapp was born, in 1845. She married on first occasion James 
Phelps, of this county, and then resided in Ravenna eight years, and in Roots- 
town until his death in 1879. Their children were Walter N., who died in 
1871, aged sixteen ; Mrs. Alexine J. Moulton, of this county, who died in 
1877, and Wykes Phelps, now in Rootstown. Mr. and Mrs. Sapp are now 
living at their residence on the corner of Prospect and Van Buren Streets. 
They are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Sapp and his sister 
are the oldest members of the church in Ravenna. 

DANIEL F. SAPP, farmer, P. O. Ravenna, was born September 28, 1821, 
in Ravenna, this county. He was brought up here on his father's faz'm, and 
attended the schools of the home district, and of Ravenna, and worked at the 
blacksmith's trade from 1839 to 1842. He married, June 13, 1849, MissLydia 
Hudson, daughter of Isaac Hudson, and they located on the family homestead, 
where they have ever since resided. Their children are Hiram, in Nebraska; 
Charles H. ; Isaac Hudson, and Mrs. Anna M. Rawlings. Mr. Sapp now owns 
the entire home farm of 103 acres, besides twelve acres which he has added to 
it. The New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Railroad passes along the north- 
ern border of the farm. 

GIDEON SEYMOUR, attorney, Ravenna, was born in East Granville, 
Hampden Co., Mass., February 23, 1836, son of Gideon D. and Corintha (Gib- 
bons) Seymour, natives of Massachusetts, who came to Ohio in 1841 and 
settled in Rootstown Township, this county, where Gideon D. was a 
man of influence. Our subject was raised on a farm, receiving his edu- 
cation at the common schools of Rootstown Township, and employing the 
earlier years of his life in teaching. He studied law in the office of Hart & 
Reed, served as Justice of the Peace nine years, and for the same period as 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 849 

Probate Judge, to which he was first elected in 1872. He was Clerk, Treasurer 
and Assessor (1858) of Fiootstown Township, and made the assessment of real 
estate for 1870, in that township. On September 15, 1859, he was married in 
Trumbull County, Ohio, to Lucy J., born in Ellsworth, Ohio, daughter of Fred- 
erick A. Parker, now of Newton Falls, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Seymour are the 
parents of the following children now living: Corintha M. and Fred P. Our 
subject and wife have been connected with the Congregational Church for years. 
The family are highly esteemed. 

JOHN E. SHARP, agent of the New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Railroad, 
Ravenna, was born January 25, 1830, in Sharon, Schoharie Co., N. Y., where 
his parents, John and Elizabeth (Bodine) Sharp, resided until their death. 
Our subject came to Shalersville, this county, in about 1850, where he com- 
pleted learning the trade of mason. After remaining there abovit six years, 
he located in Ravenna. Here he married Miss Lavinna S. Kellogg, November 
11, 1856. Her parents, Alanson and Caroline (Bishop) Kellogg, were natives 
of this county, and very useful in building up the young village of Ravenna. 
Mrs. Sharp died August 1, 1877, aged thirty-seven years, leaving three sons: 
Alfred L., in Jewett, Leon Co., Tex., holding the positions of Postmaster, 
express agent, and agent of the International & Great Northern Railroad; 
Dwight E., married to Miss Eva G. Jones (he is in the employ of the New 
York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Railroad at Ravenna); and Harry S. September 26, 
1878, Mr. Sharp married Mrs. Mary E. Cope, widow of Homer Cope, and 
daughter of C. D. Thompson, of this place. They have one son— Charles R. 
C. D. Thompson, of Vermont, came to Ravenna while a young lad with his 
father— Jonathan Thompson. He married Mrs. Abi Sweet, a native of Con- 
necticut, widow of Franklin Sweet. Their sons, Denison C. and W. Wallace, 
died of typhoid fever, former December 25, 1864, latter February 10, 1865. 
Mrs. Thompson died in 1863. D. C. Thompson, brother of Mrs. John E. 
Sharp, had one son, named Dennison C, now twenty-one years of age, unusu- 
ally active in business for one of his age. He went into the hardware business 
in Garrettsville, Ohio, alone, when but eighteen years of age, and he is now a 
partner in the Pierce Manufacturing Company, in Warren, Ohio. John E. 
Sharp has been connected with the service of the New Y'ork, Pennsylvania & 
Ohio Railroad at this place since about 1865, and was appointed the agent of 
the company in 1874, In religious belief he is a Universalist. He is a F. & 
A. M. In politics a Democrat. 

I. T. SIDDALL, Prosecuting Attorney, Ravenna, is a son of Mahlon and 
Elizabeth (Gould) Siddall, of Puritan and Virginia stock, the former a pio- 
neer of Mahoning and Columbiana Counties, Ohio, and who died while a res- 
ident of Atwater Township. Our subject, the youngest of nine children, was 
born in Atwater, and, left fatherless when an infant, early began the struggle 
of life. When but twelve years of age he purchased lands, employed a large 
force of men, and cut and delivered timber to the railroads. He also owned 
one-half interest in the home farm, in which he succeeded in buying the inter- 
est of the other heirs. Receiving a primary education in Atwater TownsMp, 
he in 1870 entered Mt. Union College, where he graduated in August, 1874, 
and began the study of law under the direction of W. B. Thomas, of Ravenna. 
He was' admitted to the bar by the District Court of this county in 1876, and 
opened an office at Springfield, Ohio, but his mother's illness necessitated his 
return, and he began the practice of his profession in this town in November, 
1877. His mother died January 14, 1878, aged seventy-four years, an estima- 
ble lady, beloved by all who knew her. Mr. Siddall was chosen Prosecuting 
Attornev in 1883, the only Democrat elected to county office in the county 



850 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

since the Republican party came into power. He is Chairman of the Execu- 
tive Committee; a member of the Masonic fraternity, Blue Lodge and Chap- 
ter; also of the Commandery of Akron, Ohio, and of the Consistory of Pitts- 
burgh, Penn. He is now Master of Unity Lodge, No. 12, F. & A. M. 

SOLOMON SLAUGHTER, farmer, P. O. Ravenna, was born August 31, 
1805, in Kent County, Del. He started West at the age of twenty-three years 
and finally came to Ravenna December 10, 1828. He worked three years in 
the hotel for Salmon Carter. He then married Miss Ruth Burdick, August, 
1831. Purchasing a small claim, which he has ever since occupied, and rely- 
ing entirely upon his physical resources, he has acquired 100 acres of well- 
improved land through which the Cleveland & Pittsburgh, and New York, 
Pennsylvania & Ohio Railroads pass. He still owns a flock of sheep, descend- 
ants of the first sheep brought to the place, over fifty years ago. Mrs. 
Slaughter died October, 1841, leaving four children: John B. , of Goshen, 
Ind. ; Andrew; Lucy; and Betsey (deceased). Mr. Slaughter afterward married 
his deceased wife's sister — Lucy Burdick, who died three years afterward. He 
then married Miss Elizabeth Smith, who bore him four children: Mrs. E. B. 
Caris, of Akron, Ohio; Charles W., of Pullman, 111.; Martha D. (deceased) 
and Solomon E., of Ravenna. Mr. Slaughter is now living on the homestead, 
at the advanced age of eighty years. He still retains his faculties, and does 
his own work. He is the only pioneer now living in his part of the township, 
and on© of the original Republicans of the county, and was deeply interested 
in the anti-slavery movements. He has led an active and a very useful life, 
and is respected by all who know him. 

WILLIAM SMITH (deceased), son of Capt. Jonathan Smith, a soldier in 
the Revolutionary war, was born at Mount Holly, N. J., February 8, 1809, 
and when nine years of age he came, with his parents, to Youngstown, Ohio, 
and there married, November 29, 1832, Miss Jane Trotter, by whom he had 
the following children: Jonathan S. , Mary (Mrs. Day), Alvin T., Isaac W. 
and Frank, residing in this county; Judson, Chester and Edgar H. in Pea- 
body, Kan. ; Charles M., killed in Kansas in 1877 by a boiler explosion, 
Zenas K. , died in this city, January 27, 1878, and William, died in infancy. 
Four of the sons fought in their country's defense during the late war of the 
Rebellion, making an aggregate of twelve years' service, and all returned 
home safe. Charles M. served four years in an Illinois regiment; Alvin T. , a 
member of the Nineteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, also a veteran, served 
four years and three months, and was mustered out as Sergeant; Zenas K., of 
the Seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry, served over three years, and Judson 
served three years in the One Hundred and Fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. 
In 1843 Mr. Smith and family came to Deerfield Township, this county. Our 
subject, while in the midst of preparations for voting for Garfield, November 
4, 1880, was stricken by the hand of death on the morning of that day. His 
widow survived him until November 16, 1884. They were a worthy couple, 
highly respected by all who knew them. Jonathan S. Smith in 1857 located 
in Ravenna, where he married Miss Lillian L. I'reeman, October 31, 1861. 
He engaged in the dry goods business with H. L. Day in 1864, and in 1865 
formed a partnership with his brother, Zenas K., which lasted until 1871, 
and Jonathan S. then carried on the business until 1878. He established his 
present grocery and provision store in 1880, having as partner his only son — 
Henry F. Alvin T. Smith married, September 12, 1867, Miss Lucy H. Har- 
ris, daughter of S. D. Harris, and they have one daughter — Nellie. He estab- 
lished in 1878 a dry goods and carpet store, which he still carries on. 

ROBERT SMITH, lumber dealer, Ravenna, was born June 19, 1833, in 
Ravenna Township, this county. His father, Moses D. Smith, of the neigh- 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 851 

borhood of Canandaigua, N. Y., a miller by trade, came to Ohio in very early 
times and married Miss Mary Reed at Parkman, Geauga County. He was a 
soldier in the war of 1812, and served with distinction to the close of the 
struggle. One year after their marriage our subject's parents came to Ravenna 
Township, this county, where the father carried on for several years the mill 
on Mahoning Creek east of Ravenna, and after about two years' residence in 
Brimfield Township, this county, they finally located permanently in Ravenna. 
Moses D. Smith had learned the trade of carpenter while in his native State, 
which trade he followed here. He was an excellent mechanic, and many 
buildings now standing testify to his superior skill. He died here in Novem- 
ber, 1853. His widow survived him until February, 1867. Of their six chil- 
dren, Robert is the second. Our subject married, May 2, 1855, Miss Elvira B. 
McMannus, daughter of Philip and Harriet McMannus, who came here from 
Erie County, Penn., when she was but seven years of age. They were well- 
known and highly respected residents of Ravenna, where they died, the 
mother December 8, 1863, and the father June 24, 1872. To Mr. and Mrs. 
Smith have been born three children: Frank F., Mrs. Addie E. Swain and 
Harriet E. Our subject learned his father's trade, that of carpenter, which 
he has followed about twenty years. He established a lumber yard in the 
place in 1873, and had as a partner, for about eight months, his brother-in- 
law, Edwin Smith, who sold his interest to J. S. Marvin in July, 1874. The 
firm is now known as R. Smith & Co. They do a general trade in lumber, 
and manufacture the "Common-sense Wooden Bed Spring." Mr. Smith served 
seven months in 1865 in the One Hundred and Ninety-sixth Regiment Ohio 
Volunteer Infantry. He is a Master Mason; a member of the A. L. of H., 
the R. A. and G. A. R. 

P. W. SNYDER, merchant, Ravenna, was born May 22, 1845, in Roots- 
town, this county, son of Peter and Henrietta (Wagner) Snyder, former a 
native of Allentown, Penn. They came to Franklin Township, this county, in 
1840, and in 1843 located in the southwest part of Rootstown Township, where 
they resided until his decease, which occurred June 23, 1845. The cause of 
his death was erysipelas, which was then raging as an epidemic in the county. 
Mrs. Snyder lived to bring up her family of four boys and four girls, and died 
in the same township January 6, 1873. She was a lady of fine business capa- 
bilities, and of most estimable character. Our subject has taken care of him- 
self almost ever since he was nine years of age, making his home with his sis- 
ter, Mrs. William P. Collins. At eighteen years of age he enlisted in the One 
Hundred and Seventy-first Ohio National Guards, April 27, 1864, and was in 
the service four months, part of which time he was confined in the hospital at 
Covington, Ky., suffering from a severe attack of typhoid fever. Returning 
home he spent three years clerking in Rootstown and Randolph, this county, 
Mr. Snyder married, April 18, 1869, Miss Emma E. Rowe, of Ravenna. They 
moved to Lyons, Iowa, where Mrs. Snyder died March 1 5, 1870. In the following 
autumn Mr. Snyder returned and located permanently in Ravenna. Here he 
clerked two years with N. Converse, and five years with Smith Bros. On April 
1, 1878, he entered into partnership with N. Converse, which was continued 
until 1880, when Mr. Freeman purchased Mr. Converse's interest. The firm 
is now known as Snyder & Freeman. Mr. Snyder married, October 19, 1873, 
Miss Orpha A. Brobst, of Brimfield Township, this county. She is a member 
of the Disciples Church. 

WILLIS STRICKLAND, retired farmer, was born June 10, 1801, in San- 
disfield, Berkshire Co., Mass., and at the age of fourteen went with his father's 
family to the township of Otis, Berkshire County, where he lived till he came 



852 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

to Ohio. In 1827 he married Miss Lucy Hawley, and in June, 1839, came to 
Windham Township, this county, where Mrs. Strickland died in January, 
1841, leaving three children: Seth, in Minnesota; Selah, in Wisconsin; and 
Lucy H., who died at the age of twenty-four. Our subject next married, in 
June, 1841, Mi's. Caroline Gardner, of New Lebanon, N. Y., and came at once 
to his home in this county. To this union were born three children: George 
(a farmer in Ravenna), John (died, aged sixteen), Willis (killed at the age of 
sixteen, by a kick from a hoi'se in 1875). This wife dying in January, 1866, 
Mr. Strickland married, November 27, 1866, Mrs. Sarah E. Richards, who had 
at that time one daughter — Alice — now the wife of Milton R. Furry, of 
Ravenna. Mr. Strickland moved to Ravenna in April, 1855. Mr. Strickland 
has been very successful as a farmer and business man, devoting himself prin- 
cipally to live stock. He was active in public afifairs up to 1855, and while in 
Massachusetts was called to various public offices, including Postmaster and 
Representative in the Legislature. In July, 1875, he, in company with N. D. 
Clark, went to Dakota, taking $125,000 in Northern Pacific Railroad bonds 
owned by themselves and other citizens of Portage County, where they were 
exchanged for land in Cass County, which has proved to be a good investment 
for the bond-holders in Windham Township, this county. He was twice 
elected Justice of the Peace. He is now and has been for the last twenty 
years a stockholder and one of the Directors in the First National Bank of 
Ravenna, Ohio. Mrs. Strickland is a member of the Disciples Church. 

DR. ISAAC SWIFT (deceased) was born in Cornwall, Litchfield Co., 
Conn., January 30, 1790, the youngest son and fourth child in a line of five 
children of Dr. Isaac Swift. His father was a Revolutionary patriot. When 
the British opeoed the war at Lexington, Dr. Swift, with a company of his neigh- 
bors, at once proceeded to Boston and entered the ranks of the patriot army. 
Dr. Swift was assigned the position of surgeon, in which capacity he served 
during the war. He died in 1802, when his son, the subject of this biography, 
was twelve years of age. Mrs. Swift, a most estimable woman, followed her 
husband to the grave in about six years, her son Isaac then being in his eight- 
eenth year. Young Swift entered upon a course of study, attending medical 
lectures in New York City, and after completing his studies, was admitted or 
licensed to practice in New Jersey. In the spring of 1815 he set out west- 
ward, with a view to select a desirable point at which to establish himself in 
the practice of medicine. Mounted upon horseback, with all his worldly 
effects in a portmanteau attached to the saddle, he commenced his pilgrimage, 
and after rough riding, reached Cleveland City, as the natives called it, though 
its population was the mere handful of a hundred or two. After halting here 
for a short time, the young doctor resumed his journey, and in the month of 
June, 1815, drew rein upon his steed in the village of Ravenna, having then 
ridden over 1,000 miles. His horse, in swimming Grand River, at Paines- 
ville, took cold, and upon arriving at Ravenna was too sick to proceed farther. 
This obliged the Doctor to remain in Ravenna, riolens volens; thus the ti'ifling 
matter of the sickness of a horse located him for life; his search after "a 
home in the West" ceased, and for over half a century he was a prominent 
resident of Ravenna. In 1816 Dr. Swift formed a partnership with the late 
Seth Day, for a term of five years. The firm bought out a store kept by a 
man named Hazlipp, adding to it a stock of medicines, Day carrying on the 
store and Swift continuing his practice. In 1817 Mr. Day was appointed Clerk 
of the Court and Recorder of the county. In 1820 the partnership was dis- 
solved, and the store eventually passed back to Hazlipp, the Doctor retaining 
the stock of medicines. January 15, 1818, he was married to Eliza Thomp- 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 853 

son, and immediately after marriage the newly married couple commenced 
housekeeping in a dwelling then standing upon the ground now occupied by 
the Etna Block. In 1823 the erection of the Swift homestead, on Chestnut 
Street, was commenced, the building being completed in 1824, since which 
time it has been the residence of the family. After the dissolution of Day 
& Swift in 1820, the drug store was continued by the Doctor for a time in the 
Hazlipp store, and afterward, from 1822 to 1825, in the store of Cyrus Pren- 
tiss (that place of business being upon the corner now occupied by the First 
National Bank), in connection with which his medical practice was retained. 
In 1824 Dr. Swift was elected Treasurer of the county, and held the office 
until 1831. In 1825 he built a drug store upon the east corner of his lot on 
Chestnut Street, and established his business there. In 1828, after a practice 
of thirteen years, he retired permanently fi-om the practice of medicine, devot- 
ing his time exclusively to the Treasurership and drug store. In 1842 the drug 
store was moved to the brick building on Main Street, known as Swift's Block 
or building. A brief partnership with the late Curtiss Hatch ensued, aud the 
drug business was continued vintil 1859, when Dr. Swift disposed of it to his son. 
Dr. Charles E. Swift, and retired from active business. In 1846 the State 
Legislature conferred the appointment of Associate Judge of the Court of 
Common Pleas, of this county, upon Dr. Swaft. He occupied the position 
with usefulness and dignity for five years, at which time the office was abol- 
ished by the adoption of the new State Constitution. Mrs. Swift united with 
the church in 1826, but her husband was not led to such a step until Septem- 
ber 11, 1831, a conviction then coming upon him from attending a protracted 
meeting held by Rev. Charles B. Storrs, at Hudson. At this time Rev. Alvan 
Nash was pastor of the Ravenna Church. Dr. Swift took an active interest in 
the church, and became a leader in its affairs and counsels, and so remained 
up to the day of his death. For over forty years he was the church Treasurer, 
and he tilled various positions within the scope of the church organization. 
Dr. Swift died at his residence on Chestnut Street, Ravenna, on Tuesday 
evening, July 14, 1874, in the eighty- fifth year of his age. 

W. B. THOMAS, attorney, Ravenna, is a son of William D. Thomas, who 
was born in South Wales, February 18, 1810, and married Miss Ann Davis, of 
Llandowey, Carmarthenshire, South Wales, June 10, 1832, and April 14, 
1836, with his wife and two small children — Sarah and David — left a large 
number of relatives and emigrated to America. They were forty days on the 
ocean. Arriving at New York they took passage up the Hudson River, through 
the Erie Canal to Buffalo, N. Y., thence to Cleveland, Ohio, by boat, and 
thence, with others who settled in Palmyra, this county, to Ravenna on foot 
(having a wagon to carry their baggage), arriving at the old Exchange Hotel 
June 10, 1836, unable to speak a word in English, and $30 in debt. He was 
a very industrious man. For years he worked for Zenas Kent as a farm 
laborer in summer, and threshed with the old hickory flail in the winter. He 
was ever grateful to David Jennings and others who aided him when in need. 
In April, 1846, he removed to Paris Township, and after some years of con- 
stant labor and economy on the part of himself and wife, who is a good 
financier, became the owner of a large farm and pleasant home, where he 
lived to the close of his life, April 10, 1881. He was a man of sympathetic 
nature, conscientious and honest. Mr. and Mrs. William D. Thomas were the 
parents of sis children: Sarah A., David W., Mary A., John R., William B. 
and Amelia (the first and last named are deceased). Our subject, W. B., was 
born in Franklin Township, this county, about three miles west of Ravenna 
Village, on the Kent farm, May 1, 1845. He was brought up on the farm, 



854 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : 

and knew what it was to milk ten cows night and morning, and to mow his 
own swath. He first acquired a common school education, then attended the 
academy at Newton Falls, Ohio, then taught district and select school, saving 
from his earnings enough to complete his education. In 1863 he attended 
Hiram College, this county, at which time political proscription and intoler- 
ance was indulged in by the Faculty to such an extent that he and seven oth- 
ers refused to submit and withdrew from the college. This subsequently 
caused the removal of the President of the college, J. H. Rhodes. Young 
W. B. then attended college at West Farmington until the fall of 1864, 
when he entered the law school at Ann Arbor, Mich., where he graduated on 
March 22, 1866; was admitted to practice in Michigan, intending to remain 
at Ann Arbor, but was called home by his parents. He was admitted to prac- 
tice in Ohio September 12, 1866. at Canfield, Ohio. Again he taught school 
and aided his parents upon the farm until April 23, 1868, when he hung out 
his shingle as a lawyer in the Empire Building, Ravenna Village, and has 
ever since occupied the same rooms as his office. He is earnestly devoted to 
his clients and is in every sense a successful lawyer and an enterprising cit- 
izen. On June 22, 1870, at Chardon, Ohio, he was married to Willia Abbie 
Belden, born in Farmington, Trumbull Co., Ohio, July 22, 1850, and daugh- 
ter of Dr. C. L. Belden, now of Portage County, Ohio, and by her he has the 
following children, all living: Winnie B., born in 1874; Ida T., born in 
1876, and Charlie B., born in 1881; and of his children our subject is very 
fond. 

RICHARD J. THOMPSON, farmer, P. O. Ravenna, was born January 
13, 1809, in Stockbridge, Berkshire Co., Mass. His parents, Isaac and Polly 
(Campbell) Thompson, came to Ravenna Township, this county, in 1814, driv- 
ing from Stockbridge, Mass., with a yoke of oxen, one wagon drawn by one 
horse and another wagon drawn by two horses. They had seven children with 
them and the journey occupied forty-two days. At that time Isaac Thompson 
was offered land in Cleveland, Ohio, anywhere east of the square, on Euclid 
Avenue, for $10 per acre. Their children were Mrs. Eliza Swift, who died in 
Ravenna, Ohio, in December, 1884, at the advanced age of eighty-five; Harry 
C, deceased; Charles B., deceased; Rev. Orrin C, in Detroit, Mich., who has 
been a Congregational minister for over fifty years; Richard J. and his twin 
brother Robert W., latter deceased; Mrs. MaryH. Sabin, and Mrs. Charlotte 
Carnahan, deceased. The mother died about 1844, aged seventy; the father 
followed her in about 1859, aged eighty five years. They were upright pioneer 
people and won the respect and esteem of all who knew them. Our subject 
married, November 16, 1834, Miss Adelia Benton, of Guilford, Conn., and to 
this union were born four daughters: Mrs. Julia B. Hall, of Euclid Avenue, 
Cleveland, Ohio; Mrs. Hattie L. Hanna, of the same place; Mrs. Helen C. 
McLain, deceased, and Mrs. Frances D. Smith, deceased. Mrs. Thompson 
died January 11, 1883. She was a member of the Congregational Church and 
a lady of estimable Christian character. Mr. Thompson is one of the original 
Republicans of Portage County. In early days he took a deep interest in the 
movement against the cause of slavery. He is one of those devoted men who 
will be honored by future generations as the sustainers of the famous " Under- 
ground Railroad." His present i^esidence, where he has lived over seventy 
years, was the building in which the first court of Portage County was held. 
He is now one of the oldest continuous residents of the township. Mr. Thomp- 
son bought and used the first mowing machine brought into the Western 
Reserve, one of the old Ketchum patent. People used to come from all points 
to see it work. This would be about the year 1855, or perhaps earlier. 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 855 

JULIAETTE THOMSON was born in Shalersville March 3, 1823, daugh- 
ter of William and Sina (Crane) Thomson, former of whom died October 3, 
1852, latter August 26, 1853, in Shalersville, and grand- daughter of Abiah 
Crane. William Thomson and Sina Crane were married in Surry, Cheshire 
Co., N. H., in 1810, and in the winter of 1812-13 came to Ohio, and when 
they arrived in Shalersville they found but twelve families in the town. Her 
father removed to Ohio in 1812 and settled in Shalersville Township, this 
county, where he encountered the trials incident to the life of a pioneer, and 
established a home. Our svibject was there raised and educated, and contri- 
buted by her efforts and association to the progress and development of that 
township. She was twice married, on first occasion January 1, 1845, to Levi 
L. Colton, of Freedom Township, this county, and who died April 27, 1860. 
Her second marriage, December 8, 1862, was with Mr. Whitney, who died 
May 19, 1882. The widow now resides in Ravenna, and, though she has no 
children of her own, delights in doing for others, and is beloved by all who 
know her. 

WILLIAM F. TOWNS, dealer in boots and shoes, Ravenna, was born 
May 8, 1844, in Paris Township, Stai-k Co., Ohio. His parents, Joseph and 
Harriet Towns, former a native of Maine, latter of Maryland, settled in Stark 
County, Ohio, in early life, and moved to Ravenna Township, this county, in 
1864. Here Mr. Towns departed this life March 5, 1871. Of their ten chil- 
dren five are now living: T. H. (in Pomeroy, Ohio), William F., Mrs. W. S. 
Churchill (in Ravenna Township, this county), M. N. (in Brookville, Kan.), 
and L. J. (in this city). Mrs. Towns is now living in Ravenna. Our subject 
received his early education in the schools of the home district and in attend- 
ing college at Alliance, Ohio. He established and carried on the Salem Busi- 
ness College, Salem, Ohio, during the winter of 1869-70. Mr. Towns was 
united in marriage October 24, 1870, with Miss Hattie M., daughter of W. D. 
Durham, of this city, and they have two children: Florence I. and Nellie A. 
In 1882 Mr. Towns established a boot and shoe business on Main Street, in 
Ravenna, and by courtesy to his customers and strict business principles he 
has built up an extensive trade in the city and vicinity. He is quite a church 
worker, a member of the official board of officei's of one of the leading churches 
of the city, and does a good portion of its financial work; he is at present 
Church Treasurer, which position he has held several years. 

WILLIAM WADSWORTH, deceased, was born December 16, 1820, in 
Canfield, Ohio, son of Edward and Pamelia Wadsworth, natives of New 
England, and who moved to Ohio from Litchfield, Conn. At fourteen years of 
age our subject came to Ravenna, where he learned the printer's trade in the 
office of the Ohio Star. He then embarked actively in the profession of jour- 
nalism, for which he was especially fitted. He acted as foreman of the Cabinet 
and Visitor three years and then became joint proprietor with Mr. Dewey of 
the Ohio Star. He afterward purchased his partner's interest and conducted 
the paper alone until 1848. He became a member of the firm of Hall, Herrick 
& Wadsworth, proprietors of the Portage County Democrat in 1854, relinquish- 
ing his position in 1856, to assume his duties as a member of the banking house 
of Robinson, King & Co. He held the position of Treasurer of the Cleveland 
& Pittsburgh Railroad during the time the office of the company was located 
in Ravenna. Mr. Wadsworth married. May 8, 1844, Miss Elizabeth R. King, 
born in Ravenna, January 10, 1819, and daughter of the well-known pioneers, 
John and Polly King, who came here from Blandford, Mass., in 1814, having 
lived four years previously in Charlestown Township, this county. Mr. Wads- 
worth. died April 22, 1860, leaving a widow and four children: Mrs. Francelia 



856 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : 

E. Dewey, Edward W. (deceased), Charles B. and Coi'a B. Mrs. Wadsworth 
now resides at the family homestead. Mr. Wadsworth was a business man of 
wonderful energy and sound integrity, of firm Christian character, and as a 
citizen of liberality and enterprise, one who was respected and esteemed by all 
classes. Their son, Charles B., adopted the profession of civil engineering, 
and has been engaged on the Wheeling & Lake Erie, Cleveland & Pittsburgh 
and Alliance, Niles & Ashtabula Railroads, and for several months on the Den- 
ver & Rio Grande Railroad. He was elected Surveyor of Portage County, 
Ohio, at the general election in October, 18S4:. 

JOSEPH WAGGONER, physician and surgeon, Ravenna, was born near 
Richmond, Jefferson Co., Ohio, December 30, 1821. His father, William 
Waggoner, of German-Irish parentage, residing in northeastern Maryland, 
married Miss Sarah Jackson, of northwestern Delaware, and of Scotch English 
descent. Loading their household goods into a wagon, they began the tedious 
journey over the mountains to the wilderness of Ohio, landing in Jeflferson 
County, in 1805, and locating on a quarter-section near Richmond. Here they 
built a log-cabin, began their pioneer labor, and spent their useful and honored 
lives, raising a family of eight boys and four girls. Our subject, the tenth in 
the family, grew up on the farm, working during the summer and attend- 
ing the district school in the winter. In his eighteenth year he began teach- 
ing during the winters and attending a select school at Richmond during the 
summers. On attaining his majority he entered the Steubenville Academy, to 
prepare for entering college, but his health failing, a further classical course 
was by his friends deemed inadvisable. After resting and recruiting his health 
for nearly a year he commenced the study of medicine under Drs. Johnson 
and Henning. of Steubenville, in the spring of 1843, continuing until the fall 
of 1846. During the winter of 1846-47 he attended medical lectures at the 
Cleveland Medical College, and subsequently had the degree of Doctor of Med 
icine conferred on him by that institution. In the spring of 1847 he located 
at Deerfield, this county, in the practice of his chosen profession, where for six- 
teen years he was engaged in its duties and responsibilities. In the spring of 
1863 he removed to Ravenna, where he at once entered upon an enlarged and 
constantly increasing practice. During the year 1864 he visited Washington, 
D. C, tendering his services to the Government, which were accepted. He 
entered the army as Assistant Surgeon, and was placed on duty at Lincoln 
Hospital, but his stay there was shoi't. His wife's health became precarious, 
and he was induced to resign his position and return home. Since that time 
he has been continually and assiduously engaged in the practice of medicine, 
his life work, allowing nothing to interfere with its duties. The Doctor is a 

F. & A. M., a member of the American Medical Association, the Ohio 
State Medical Society, the Northeastern Ohio Medical Society, and the Portage 
County Medical Society. His literature consists of society papers and an 
occasional political article. He is very liberal in his professional views, and 
willing to fraternize, when humanity calls, with medical gentlemen of the so- 
called different schools. In theology he is also very tolerant of the views of 
the different sects, gladly welcoming the day when those differences will disap- 
pear. He supports the different churches liberally, believing in the doctrine of 
Christianity and its ennobling influences on mankind. Politically in early life 
the Doctor was a Whig, and a great admirer of Henry Clay, for whom he cast 
his first Presidential vote. When the Republican party was organized, he joined 
it, and has ever since been battling for its political ascendancy, voting for its 
nominees, Fremont, Lincoln, Grant, Hayes, Garheld and Blaine. Dr. Wag- 
goner is known as a straightforward, honest man. He is courteous and gentle- 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 857 

manly in manner, genial in disposition, and liberal in spirit and action. He 
enjoys the esteem of all those with whom he is acquainted professionally or 
socially. As a general practitioner and family physician, he has few equals, 
always endeavoring to keep his patients well, as much as to cure them. In 
June, 1862, our subject married Miss Mary M. Regal, of Deertield, this county, 
who by her domestic virtues has proved a life helpmate. Four children were 
born to them: George Joseph, Arthur Judson, William Wallace, and Mary 
Josephine, the first and last of whom are living. Arthur and William, two 
lovely and promising boys, aged eleven and eight, respectively, died of that 
dread disease, diphtheria, in January, 1880, and were buried on the same day, 
January 18. This is the one great sorrow of his life, and is the only shadow 
that hangs over an otherwise happy home. 

EDWIN R. WAIT, jeweler and watch-maker, Ravenna, was born in Aurora, 
this county, July 4, 1830. His parents, Jonathan and Abigail Wait, of Ches- 
ter, Mass., settled in this county about 1825. They lived the lives of useful 
pioneers, and raised a family of ten children, of whom but three are now liv- 
ing in this county. The mother died February 23, 1877; the faiher January 17, 
1881, at the age of eighty-four. Our subject at the age of twenty-one began 
learning the trade of jeweler and watch-maker, with R. A. Baird, of Ravenna, 
and was for many years engaged with him, finally purchasing the entire busi- 
ness. He carried on the enterprise alone for many years, taking in as a part- 
ner his brother, Alva F., in 1871. The firm is now known as Wait Bros. 
They enjoy an extensive custom as manufacturing jewelers, watch-makers and 
dealers in a complete line of jewelers' goods. Theirs is the oldest business 
house (with one exception) in Ravenna. Mr. Wait married Miss Mary E. Swift, 
November 18, 1858. She is a daughter of Dr. Isaac Swift, one of the early 
settlers of this city, and for many years prominently identified with the medi- 
cal profession. To Mr. and Mrs. Wait have been born one son — Henry M. 
and one daughter — Emily M. Our subject and wife are members of the Con- 
gregational Church. Mr. Wait is a life- long Republican, casting his first vote 
for Fremont. He takes a deep interest in public affairs. Has been a member 
of the Board of Education for fifteen years. 

WALLACE WILLIAMSON (deceased) was born in Washington County, 
Penn., December 15, 1817, but was brought up principally in Bethlehem, 
Stark Co. , Ohio. At sixteen years of age he started on foot to the Maumee 
Swamps, Ohio, where his uncle, George Robinson, was acting as a civil engi- 
neer on the Ohio Canal. He learned that profession under his uncle, and fol- 
lowed it for about twenty-five years on that and the Ohio & Pennsylvania 
Canals. He married, January 4, 1842, Miss Alvira S. Judd, born May 5,1822, 
in Ravenna Township, this county. Her father, Charles Judd, of Hamilton, 
County, N. Y., came, when a young man, in 1818, to this county, where he mar 
ried Miss Lucina, daughter of the pioneers, Moses and Marj^ (Abels) Smith, 
who settled here from Litchfield County, Conn., in 1805. Mr. Judd died 
November 17, 1864. His widow still survives him at the advanced age of 
eighty five years, being the oldest continuous resident of Ravenna Township 
now living. Mrs, Williamson is their only child. Seven years after their 
marriage Mr. Williamson purchased the old Judd family homestead of 126 
acres near the corporation line of Ravenna. He devoted his time partly to 
this, and partly to canal and railroad engineering. He had an accidental fall 
on his premises on Februarj' 12, 1881, which resulted in his death on the 21st 
of that month. He was an active man in agricultural affairs, taking a very 
prominent part in the Portage Agricultural Society. He was a leading 
member of the P. of H., being an influential member of the State and 



858 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

National Granges. His widow and their only son — Marshall — survive him» 
and reside at the family homestead. Mrs. Williamson is a pious member of 
the Disciples Church, the faith of her father and mother. 

ANDREW WILLYARD, farmer, P. O. Ravenna, was born March 27, 
1830, in Ravenna Township, this county. His father, Benjamin Willyard, 
came from Maryland to this county in 1808 with his parents, and here he mar- 
ried Miss Elizabeth Eatinger, daughter of John and Christiana Eatinger. They 
had a family of live children: Mrs. Julia Ann Caris, Andrew, Phylena 
(deceased), John and Charles (latter deceased). The father died April 6,1868, 
and the mother January 12, 1878. They were upright pioneer citizens, pious 
members of the Lutheran Church, enjoying the respect of all who knew them. 
Our subject married Miss Susan Welk, of Mahoning Couuty, Ohio, January 
25^, 1859, and they then settled where they now reside. They own a fine farm 
of 150 acres in Ravenna and Rootstown Townships. Their children now liv- 
ing are Charles H.; Judson C, in Dakota; Clara E.; Calvin B. and Kate E. 
Two died in infancy. The subject of this sketch is a worthy descendant of 
one of the oldest and most influential pioneer families of Portage County. 

GEORGE WISMAN, farmer, P. O. Ravenna, was born March 23, 1823, in 
Beaver County, Penn. ; son of William and Hester Wisman, natives of same 
county, and who came to this county in 1824, settling in Rootstown Township. 
(Mrs. Wisman was a daughter of the famous scout and Indian hunter, Andrew 
Poe). Here Mr. Wisman met his death in 1826 by being accidentally shot 
while out hunting wild hogs with a friend, Mr. Carl. Mrs. Wisman then 
returned with her family to her native county, where she resided until 1839, 
when they located in Ravenna Township, this county. The children were Mrs. 
Elizabeth R. Hall, of Rootstown; Andrew Poe, in Van Wert County, Ohio, 
(deceased); George and Sarah (latter deceased). Mrs. Wisman died in 1873, 
at the age of seventy-six years. Our subject married, in 1848, Miss Sarah 
Jane, daughter of Daniel Clark, of Rootstown. She died in 1854, leaving 
one daughter — Mrs. Mary Merrill, of Meadville, Penn. Mr. Wisman after- 
ward married, March 22, 1855, Miss Eliza Uncapher, of Columbiana County, 
Ohio. They have five children: Samantha, George, Eliza Eldora, John Poe 
and William. Mr. Wisman purchased his present place south of Ravenna, to 
which he has added until he now owns an excellent farm of 160 acres of well- 
improved land. He has recently erected a fine residence thereon. He and his 
wife are consistent members of the Lutheran Church. Mr. Wisman is a man 
who has begun upon his own resources and risen to his present prosperity by 
his own industry and good management. In politics he is a Democrat. 

ROBERT B. WITTER, proprietor of livery, etc., Ravenna, was born Octo- 
ber 29, 1829, in Truro, Nova Scotia, where his father, Ezra Witter, died about 
1848. Our subject came to this county about 1849, settling in Ravenna in 
1854. His mother, Margaret Witter, came to this county in 1850 and died in 
Rootstown September 5, 1853; his sisters, Mrs. Isabella Butler and Mrs. Mary 
A. Day, and his brother Charles now live in Ravenna, Ohio. Our subject fol- 
lowed his trade as harness-maker until 1863, and has conducted a livery stable 
since 1875. He married, in October, 1872, Mrs. Mary A. Steadman, widow 
of Dr. Charles E. Steadman, and daughter of Robert and Mary Ann Hamil- 
ton, of New Baltimore, Ohio. Mrs. Witter died May 30, 1879, leaving one 
daughter — Mary A. Witter. 

FREDERICK WELLS WOODBRIDGE, Ravenna, was born at Manches- 
ter, Conn., in 1824. His father, who had been wealthy, lost his all in the 
financial panic of 1837, and came to Ohio with his son in 1839, In 1841 the 
boy began to clerk for Clapp & Spellman, at Akron, and soon after for Zenas 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. 85D 

Kent, of Ravenna, wbo had noticed his character and ability. With charac- 
teristic unselfishness, young Woodbridge gave his father his wages to help 
him buy a farm, denying himself many comforts for that purpose. Too poor 
to venture into society, he was yet too rich in self-respect and principle to 
indulge in bad habits. He went into business for himself in 1846. Mr. 
Woodbridge's head, heart and life all testify that the clock of his fortune struck 
twelve in 1847, when he married Mary A. Bi-ayton, of Ravenna. He engaged 
in business soon after with his father-in-law; removed to Cleveland, Ohio, in 
1853, where with others he built the Cleveland Powder Mills, which he opera- 
ted successfully for several years, when he again entered a mercantile life and 
prosecuted an extensive business in connection with the Cleveland Rolling MilJ 
Company. He returned to Ravenna in 1873, where he still lives, engaged in 
the manufacture of glass. He is emphatically a Christian business man, 
enterprising, energetic, sagacious, successful, and of invulnerable integrity. 
He is domestic in his tastes, and more than beautiful in his home life. A 
patient and dutiful son, a kind and wise father, a genial friend, the idol of 
his children, the king of his wife's affection, as she is the queen of his heart. 
He is as tenderly devoted as the most ardent young lover, aiding her enthu- 
siastically in all her reform work. — Rev. A. M. Hills. 

MRS. MARY A. WOODBRIDGE. — Mary A. Brayton was a Nan- 
tucket girl, which explains much in her brave career and character. Left 
to themselves during the long and dangerous voyages of men who sought 
the northern seas for "light, more light" (in the halcyon days of sper- 
maceti, before Col. Drake struck oil from Pennsylvania's bosom), the women 
of Nantucket were by nature and nurture hardy, strong and self-reliant 
But with these qualities not sufficiently emphasized in the "regulation pat- 
tern " of the softer sex, these unique islanders combined great tenderness and 
depth of head and conscience. How could it fail to be so, when they fer- 
vently prayed for the safe home-coming of their best-beloved, and kept their 
memory green by constant recitals to their children of the virtues of their 
absent sons and sires ? From the same lineage that has given us Prof. Maria 
Mitchell, of Vassar College, and Phcsbe Hanaford, the preacher and poet, 
comes their cousin, Mary A. Woodbridge, whose name has already lent to tem- 
perance annals one of the brightest pages this century can show. Her father, 
Capt. Isaac Brayton (see page 814), a man of character and substance, repeats 
his noblest traits in his most gifted child, but more than all we trace the gen- 
tle, tender spirit which makes more firm her stand for truth, and the unfailing 
trust in God which were the gift and teaching of a devoted mother to a ten- 
derly loved daughter, and see in her those rare qualities possessed by that 
mother (Love Mitchell Brayton) and her brother. Prof. William Mitchell, the 
brilliant astronomer, of whom it is said "none knew them but to love." Her 
sunny years of childhood were sedulously turned to account under the guid- 
ance of wise parental counsel and able teachers. Little Mary was the prodigy 
of the school-room, especially in mathematics. That most progressive educa- 
tor, Horace Mann, on witnessing some of her exploits at six years of age, 
said: " Persevere, my child, you will yet make a notable woman." At eigh- 
teen our heroine was both wife and mother, having married Frederick Wells 
W^oodbridge, Esq., a successful young merchant, who made her acquaintance 
in the pleasant town of Ravenna, for some years her father's home. A 
residence in Cleveland followed her marriage, where two daughters are now 
living. One son, though of the stature of manhood, is the joy of his parents, 
while the elder awaits their coming to the home beyond. Home cares did noi 
prevent Mrs. Woodbridge's constant growth in mental acquisitions and acu- 



860 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

men. Books have always been her "next of kin," and of few can it be said 
with greater truth, that "she lived on her ideas.'-' She was Secretary of a lit- 
erary club, over which Gen. James A. Garfield presided (in his frequent visits 
to Cleveland), and all unconsciously she was preparing for the great work 
awaiting the Christian women of her native land. Finally the clock of God 
struck the hour of the crusade, and among the leaders which, in the sacred 
exclusion of their homes and manifold activities of their church life, had been 
serving their novitiate, forth came Mary A. VVoodbridge into the peaceful war 
for God, and home, and native land. Of the three-fold call — " opportunity, 
adaptation and success" — by which she was ushered into gospel temperance 
work, let her own pastor, Rev. A. M. Hills, tell in the fitting words that follow: 
"The crusade came with the suddenness and the power of Pentecost, bringing, 
also, like it, a baptism of the Holy Ghost. In common with thousands of oth- 
ers of her Ohio sisters, she felt the movings of the Spirit. Her eyes were 
opened to see in a new light the woes caused by intemperance. She went to 
her closet, and there, when alone with her God, heard the Divine voice asking, 
'Whom shall I send?' She had the grace given her to lay hex'self upon the 
altar in consecration, with the prayer, 'Here am I; I will be or do whatever 
pleaseth Thee.' But she did not yet understand the vision, nor realize that a 
live coal had touched her lips. She had been a professing Christian for thirty 
years, but had never spoken a word in public or offered an audible prayer. 
Soon she attended a great union meeting which had come together in the 
excitement of the hour without anyone haviog been appointed to preside when 
gathered. It was thought best that this should be done by a woman. Who 
should it be? Oue after another thought of her, and she was asked to take 
the place. She was utterly overcome with fear and a sense of inability, and 
pleaded to be excused. Her aged father came to her side and tenderly reminded 
her of her consecration vow, and then left her. Her pastor came a second 
time, when, with a struggle, she said to one standing by, 'Doctor, ask the audi- 
ence to rise and sing Coronation; I never can walk up the aisle with these peo- 
ple looking at me.' As they sang, she went forward, trembling with weakness 
and praying every step 'Lord, help me! Lord, help me!' She called upon a 
brother to pray: then she read a verse of Scripture, and began to say — she 
knew not what. But God put his own message into her anointed lips. The 
deeps of her woman's heart were moved ; self was forgotten in her message. 
She pleaded for the degraded victims of drink; for their heartbroken wives 
and mothers, and for their suffering and degraded children. Her words poured 
forth in tender and resistless eloquence, till the multitude were moved as one 
man. The strong were melted to tears. Christians wept and prayed together. 
A cool-headed Judge arose and solemnly declared that he had never been in 
an audience so manifestly moved by the Holy Ghost. In that one sacred houi" 
she was lifted by the providence of God into a new life. Her mission had 
come. Like St. Paul, she had had a revelation, and she has not since that time 
been disobedient to the heavenly vision." Ever since then the histoiy of Mrs. 
Woodbridge is part and parcel of the Women's Christian Temperance Union, 
"that sober, second thought of the crusade." She has risen to her present 
eminence by sure and regular gradation, being at first President of the local 
union of her own home town at Ravenna, then for years President of her 
State, and in 1878 she was chosen Recording Secretary of the National 
W^omen's Christian Temperance Union, a position which she tills with unrivalled 
ability, her minutes being almost never susceptible of improvement by even 
the slightest verbal change. This is, indeed, a fact ''significant of much," for 
only the quickest ear, keenest perception and readiest hand could so " keep 



RAVENNA TOWNSHIP. ' 861 

the run " of proceedings to the last degree intricate, rapid and changeful. 
Upon the resignation of Mrs. J. Ellen Foster (at the St. Louis National 
W. C. T. U. convention, in October, 1884,) Mrs. Woodbridge was unanimously 
chosen National Superintendent of the Department of Legislation and Peti- 
tions. She is now in the field addressing large audiences at leading centers 
of influence, and is received with the consideration due to her character, tal- 
ents and influence. But the crowning work of Mrs.AVoodbridge thus far, was 
her consummate conduct of the Constitutional Amendment campaign, espec- 
ially when the stage of submitting the prohibitory clause had been successfully 
passed. Her wonderful alertness of mind, facility of leadership, patience and 
far-reaching wisdom, had here a splendid field. Political leaders in Ohio said 
"they were out- worked, outwitted and out-generaled. " Almost unaided by 
the partisan press, with faithlessness in camp and field, the parties making a 
promise to the ear only to break it to the hope, this steadfast nature still held 
on its way, trusted by the people of Ohio and devoutly trusting them. But 
in God were the hidings of her power. Whether she edited the Amendment 
Herald, which under her leadership attained a weekly circulation of 100,000 
copies, or directed the appointments of the temperance workers who were "out 
campaigning, stirred the zeal of her local workers by letter and telegram, or 
pleaded for the sinews of war, her faith failed not," and words of prayer were 
ever on her lips, or promises of God from the Book with which she has so great 
familiarity. What wonder that more than 300,000 voters responded by "Yes" 
ballots to such earnest workers as the White Ribbon women of Ohio, under 
such splendid leadership. Later on, when the amendment was counted out, 
Mrs. Woodbridge has taken positions so far advanced as to the safe conduct of 
prohibition movements, that many good people have been unable " to see light 
in her light," but she goes bravely forward, undaunted, undeterred, "with 
firmness in the right as God gives her to see the right," exhibiting in this the 
choicest quality of her noble character, viz. : fidelity to her convictions at cost 
of comfort and of praise. The W. C. T. U. is unspeakably dear to Mrs. Wood- 
bridge, but the temperance reform is dearer still, and what she believes to be 
for its best interests, she will steadily pursue, "with malice toward none and 
charity for all." Happily for this gifted woman, '• her husband's heart doth 
safely trust in her." Her noble son, now up to man's estate, is so truly "moth- 
er's boy," that he drinks in of her spirit and appreciates her work. Out of 
gratitude to God for the immunity of her own family circle, Mary A. Wood- 
bridge works — not out of grief or desperation. Her home furnishes salient 
refutation to the foolish fallacy that women of brains, enterprise and public 
spirit are not good house-keepex's. Mrs. Woodbridge is a rare florist; many 
varieties of roses embellish her garden. Rare exotics flourish in her sunny 
house: viands prepared by her own skilled and industrious hands render 
attractive her hospitable board. " These things ought ye to have done and not 
left the other undone," seems to have been her motto. A model wife and 
mother, a royal friend, an earnest Christian, long may she live and labor for 
a sacred cause. — Frances E. Willard. 

46 



862 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 



ROOTSTOWN TOWNSHIP. 

R. N. ANDREWS, farmer and stock-dealer, P. O. Rootstown, was born in 
Rootstown Township, this county, July 9, 1808; son of Thaddeus and Lydia 
Andrews, natives of Connecticut, and who came to this county in 1804, being 
among the first settlers of Rootstown Township, and here died, the former in 
1845, the latter in 1843. Our subject was married, September 20, 1830, to 
Emily Norton, born in Guilford, Chenango Co., N. Y., February 22, 1812, 
daughter of Ancil and Lucy Norton, Eastern people, who settled in this county 
in 1822, and remained here all their lives. To Mr. and Mrs. Andrews have 
been born three children, one now living — Seth N. The deceased were both 
named Emma J. Mr. Andrews, who has been a farmer all his life, owns 130 
acres of land where he and his wife reside. 

J. F. AUSFAHL, farmer, P. O. Rootstown, was born in Wurtemberg, Ger- 
many, March 14, 1821; son of John G. and Christiana Ausfahl, who immi- 
grated to Marlboro, Stark Co. , Ohio, there remaining until the death of the 
mother in 1838. The father then moved to this county and here passed the 
remainder of his days, dying in 1848. Our subject was married, December 
13, 1842, to Sophia Smith, born in Bedford County, Penn., May 4, 1824, 
daughter of David and Susan Smith, both now deceased. To Mr. and Mrs, 
Ausfahl were born three children, two now living: Rosie and Mary. John G. 
is deceased. Mrs. Ausfahl died October 10, 1883, after living a long and use- 
ful life. Our subject is a cabinet-maker by trade but has been engaged in 
farming for several years. 

JAMES S. AUSTIN, farmer, P. O. Rootstown, was born in Arkansas, May 
13, 1810; son of Horace and Peaceable Austin, the former a native of Con- 
necticut, and the latter of Pennsylvania, who settled in Arkansas, where they 
remained until the father's death in 1818, when the mother and family moved 
to Natchez, Miss., thence to Portage County, Ohio, where she died in 1845. 
Our subject was married, May 13, 1834, to Mary E. Reed, born in this town- 
ship in 1812, daughter of Abram and Siley Reed (both now deceased). To 
this union have been bora six children, three now living: Olive (wife of Caleb 
Elye), Mary and Horace. The deceased are Rebecca. Dayton H. and James 
M. Our subject is a carpenter by trade, at which he worked about forty years, 
since when he has been engaged in farming. He owns forty-nine acres whereon 
he and his family reside. He has filled several offices of trust in the town- 
ship. Mr. Austin, wife and daughter are members of the Congregational 
Church. 

ALBERT BABCOCK, farmer, P. O. Ravenna, was born in Ravenna Town- 
ship, this county, September 12, 1824; son of Almon and Mary Babcock. The 
former, born in Granville, Mass., November 9, 1788, came to this county in 
1810; the latter, born in Hartford, Conn., August 15, 1789, came to this 
county in 1812. They were married December 25, 1814, and remained here 
until their death, May 4, 1850, and May 28, 1859, respectively. Our subject 
was married, April 26, 1854, to Betsey E. Avery, born in Portage County, 
Ohio, May 30, 1831, daughter of Reuben and Corinne Avery, the former born 
in Hoosenick Colony of Connecticut, March 2, 1772; the latter in Farmington, 
Hartford Co., Conn., December 23, 1789. Mr. Avery was married the first 



ROOTSTOWN TOWNSHIP. 863 

time in 1804, to Rachel Baldwin, of his native State, and they resided in New 
York until 181(3, when they moved to Aurora, this county, where she died in 
1822, and he then married Corrinne Faxon February 9, 1823, the widow of Isaac 
Faxon. Mr. Avery died May 25, 1873, his widow June 9, 1878. Mr. and 
Mrs. Babcock have had six children: John F., Adalaide A. (wife of Kelsey S. 
Wing), Mary C. (wife of Charles D. Hughs), Martha M., Nettie M. and Josephine 
B. Mr. Babcock has been engaged in farming through life, and owns 190 
acres where he has resided since 1840. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. 

A. H. BAELOW, retired, P. O. Rootstown, was born in New York State 
January 3, 1815; son of John and Mary Barlow, natives of Connecticut, the 
former of whom died in New York, his widow coming to this county and 
remaining with our subject until her death. Our subject was married, JanuarA'^ 

3, 1837, to Clara Sanford. born in Connecticut in November, 1813, daughter of 
Robert W. and Mabel Sanford, both deceased. Mr. Barlow settled in this 
county in 1836, has lived here ever since and is a member of the Pioneer Associa- 
tion. Mr. and Mrs. Barlow have had five children, two now living: Laura M. 
(wife of J. H. Bradshaw) and Addison M. The deceased are Sarah E., Fred- 
erick W. and Robert L. Our subject has been engaged in the boot and shoe 
business most of his life. He is the present County Coroner, has tilled nearly 
all the oflSces of trust in the township, and has held the office of Justice of the 
Peace eighteen years. He is now I'etired from business. Mr. and Mrs. Bar- 
low are members of the Congregational Church. 

JOSEPH BASEL, farmer, P. O. Rootstown, born on the Atlantic Ocean 
in June, 1840, is of German descent, son of Adam and Lena Basel. He was 
reared to manhood in this county and married, August 26, 1872, Mary A. 
Kline, born in Randolph Township, Portage Co., Ohio, June, 1851, of Ger- 
man descent, daughter of Peter and Margaret Kline. Mr. and Mrs. Basel 
are the parents of three children, two of whom are now living: Sophronia and 
Emma. The deceased was an infant. Our subject, who has been a farmer all 
his life, owns seventy- nine acres of improved land where he and his family 
reside. He served his country during the war of the Rebellion in Company 
H, One Hundred and Eighty- fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He and his 
wife are members of the Catholic Church. 

DANIEL BOGUE, farmer, P. O. Rootstown, was born in Connecticut. 
December 1, 1815, son of Henry and Sarah Bogue, natives of Connecticut, 
who came to Medina County in 1816, and remained the balance of their lives. 
Our subject was married in 1839 to Hitty Lewis, born in Massachusetts in 
1817, daughter of "William and Sarah Lewis, natives of Massachusetts, who 
came to this county, where they remained until their death. Mr. and Mrs. 
Bogue are the parents of ten children, nine of whom are now living: Ellen, 
Henry L. , Newell E., Byron J., Milo, Augustus H., Emma A., Edwin L. and 
Charles D. Our subject owns 140 acres of land where he and his family 
reside. They are among the early settlera of the county, and the name Bogue 
is familiar to every citizen, ' 

GEORGE W. BOW, merchant, Rootstown, was born in Rootstown, this 
county, December 24, 1843, son of Oliver and Maria Bow, natives of the East, 
the former born in Berkshire County. Mass., and the latter in the State of 
New York. • They weie married in Rootstown Township, this county, where 
they remained until 1882, when they moved to GarrettsviHe, this county, where 
they I'eside at present. Our subject was married December 27, 1865, to Ellen 
E. Chapman, born in Brimfield Township, this county, October 27, 1844, 
daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth Chapman (both deceased, the former March 

4, 1878, and the latter October 1, 1880). Mr. and Mrs. Bow have two children: 



864 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Charlie M. and Stephen W. Our subject engaged in farming until 1880, 
when he and his father purchased the store at the Center, formerly owned by 
S. L. Burget, and after one year he bought his father's interest, since when he 
has conducted the business alone, the only general store at the Center. Mr. 
Bow is Postmaster, and has jSlled other offices of trust in the township. He 
owns 113 acres of improved land. He and his wife and children are members 
of the Congregational Church, in which he was leader of the choir for ten 
years, and Superintendent of the Sabbath-school eleven years. 

WASHINGTON L. BUKT, farmer, P. O. Kootstown, was born in Brim- 
tield Township, this county, March 26, 1825, son of Abel and Prudence Burt, 
native of Brimtield, Mass., who came to Ohio in 1822, locating in this county, 
where they remained until their death, the father dying October 25, 1867, the 
mother August 20, 1870. Our subject was married in 1846 to Electra D. Bab- 
cock, born in Franklin Township, this county, October 15, 1828, daughter of 
Sylvester and Electra A. Babcock, the former a native of Massachusetts, the lat- 
ter of Vermont, and who came to this county, where the mother died Novem- 
ber 3, 1827, after which the father went to Indiana, where he died March 27, 
1868. Mr. and Mrs. Bui't have had eleven children, live of whom survive: 
Caroline, wife of Henry Shumway; Julia, wife of Henry Spellman; John W. ; 
Daniel V. and Henry B. The deceased are Charles B., Eliza E., two infants. 
Flora E. and Charles. Our subject, who has been engaged in farming all his 
life, owns fifty acres of land and other property. He is one of Portage Coun- 
ty's oldest pioneers. 

L. F. BUTLER, farmer, P. O. Rootstown, was born in Atwater, this 
county, August 21, 1836, ,son of Luther and Eliza Butler, the former of 
whom was born in Connecticut October 8, 1801; the latter in Atwater Town- 
ship, Ohio, in 1808. Both are now living in Atwatei*. Our subject was mar- 
ried July 9, 1862, to Elvira R. Huffman, born in Rootstown Township, this 
county, June 6, 1843, daughter of Abraham and Jane Huffman, who reside in 
Atwater Township, this county. Mr. and Mrs. Butler have two children: M. 
Lillian, born September 29, 1863, and Clarence M., born April 19, 1870. Our 
subject engaged in farming for several years; then for eight years in merchan- 
dizing at Atwater. He sold out and moved to Rootstown Township, this 
county, where he has a farm consisting of 150 acres. Mr. Butler is a good 
citizen. 

GEORGE A. CALE, farmer, P. O. Rootstown, was born in Cleveland, 
Ohio, May 18, 1857; son of Stephen and Adaline Cale, natives of Windham, 
Portage Co., Ohio; former of whom died in Shalersville, Ohio, in 1860. The 
latter subsequently married Willet Prosser, and they reside in Ravenna, Ohio. 
Our subject was married November 8, 1876, to Ibbie E. Colton, born in 
Rootstown Township, this county, May 26, 1857, daughter of Alva and Mary 
M. Colton, natives of Ohio, and who settled in this county. The father died 
in 1881. The mother resides in Rootstown Township, this county. Mr. and 
Mrs. Cale have had two children: Alva H., and Bertha V. (deceased). Our 
subject has been a farmer all through life. He and his wife are members of 
the Disciples Church. 

SAMUEL CARIS, farmer, P. O. Rootstown, was born in Rootstown Town- 
ship, this county, December 27, 1823; son of John and Betsey E. Caris, 
natives of Pennsylvania, who came to this county and settled, and here died. 
Our subject was married July 7, 1849, to Rachel Ward, born in Ravenna 
Township, June 20, 1824; daughter of William and Betsey E. Ward, now 
deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Caris are the parents of three children, two of whom 
are now living: Belle E., wife of Ira L. Heriff, and William I. Frank D. is 



ROOTSTOWN TOWNSHIP. 865 

deceased. Mr. Caris, like liis brother (whose sketch appears below), is a 
farmer and brick-maker. He owns forty-live acres of improved land. He is a 
pleasant, agreeable citizen. 

HENRY C. CARIS, farmer, P. O. Rootstown, was born in Rootstown 
Township, this county, May 23, 1832; son of John and Betsey E. Caris, 
natives of Pennsylvania, who came to Rootstown Township in a very early 
day, and here remained until their death. Our subject married, March 17, 
1861, Flora E. Ward, born in Portage County, Ohio, in 1834, daughter of 
William and Betsey E. Ward, early settlers of Rootstown Township, where 
they remained until their death. Mr. and Mrs. Caris have three children: 
Frank L., James H. and Arlie L. Our subject, who has been a farmer and 
brick-maker all his life, owns seventy-three acres of good land where he and 
his family reside. He has filled the office of Trustee of his township. He 
and his family are descended from some of the first settlers of this county. 

JULIA C. CASE, widow of Gad Case, who was born in Canton, Hartford 
Co., Conn., May 5, 1796, son of Silas and Mary Case. The boyhood of Gad 
Case was passed on a farm and his educational advantages were limited to the 
common schools. At the age of seventeen he learned the edge-tool and 
blacksmith trade, which he followed until 1836, In 1833 he moved to New 
York, and in 1838 to Ohio. In this year, also, he married Mrs. Tirzah Gib- 
bons, widow of Alpheus Gibbons. She was born April 18, 1796, at Granville, 
Mass.: came to Ohio and located in Rootstown Township, this county, about 
the year 1821. She went to Colorado May 5, 1873, and died on the 8th of 
the same month, while visiting friends thei'e, after a long and useful Christian 
life, aged seventy-seven years. Mr. Case then married, December 31, 1874, 
Julia C. Porter, born in Hinsdale, Mass., April 11, 1829, daughter of James 
and Lourinda Porter (deceased). Mr. Case was Deacon of the Congregational 
Church for more than twenty years, and served the people in many township 
offices of trust. He died June 20, 1883, leaving his widow in comfortable 
circumstances. 

FRANCIS CHAPMAN (deceased) was born in Connecticut June 30, 1799; 
son of Nathan Chapman, also deceased. He was married January 29, 1829, 
to Margaret Morey, born in Connecticut January 3, 1809, daughter of Tilling- 
hast and Elizabeth Morey, natives of Connecticut, who emigrated to Ohio in 
1810, settling first at Milton, thence moving to Rootstown Township, this 
county, in 1835, where they remained until their death. Mr. Morey died Jan- 
uary 30, 1844; his widow June 5, 1874. To Mr. and Mrs. Chapman were 
born seven children, six of whom are now living: James E., Virgil M., Char- 
lotte S., Mary E., Albert and Julia A. Orville died soon after his marriage. 
Our subject, at the time of his death, April 17, 1877, owned 100 acres of 
improved land where his widow now resides. He was a consistent member of 
the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mrs. Chapman is a member of that church. 

LEWIS B. CHAPMAN, farmer, P. O. Rootstown, was born in Campbells- 
port, this county, November 25, 1806; son of Beamon and Sarah Chapman, 
natives of Vermont, who were united in marriage there and came to Ohio in 
1805, where they remained until their death, Mr. Chapman dying June 15, 
1864, and his wife about 1844. Our subject was first married, March 1, 1836, 
to Mary S. Loveland, born in Aurora, this county, September 22, 1814, daugh- 
ter of Ephraditus and Anna Loveland, both of whom died in Aurora. Mrs. 
Chapman died April 24, 1863, the mother of three children, one now living — 
Wilbert. Mr. Chapman, June 29, 1863, next married Catharine A., widow of 
Urich Ackley, and born in Pennsylvania October 15, 1832, daughter of Elisha 
and Ruth Weaver. The latter died in Pennsylvania in 1836, and Mr. Weaver 



S66 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

afterward removed to Wisconsin, where he died in 1859. Our subject and 
wife raised a child named Susie A. Mr. Chapman is a farmer, and owns 100 
acres of land, whei'e he has lived fifty- four years. He and his family are 
members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is one of the present 
Trustees of this township. 

PLIMPTON O. CHAPMAN, farmer, P. O. New Milford, was born in 
Rootstown Township, this county, May 6, 1822; son of Stephen and Barbara 
Chapman, natives of Connecticut, the former of whom came to Rootstown 
Township, this county, in iSO-i, and the latter in 1820. They were married in 
1821, and settled in Rootstown Township, where they remained until their 
death. Stephen Chapman died in 1872, his wife in 1861. They were worthy 
pioneers of this township, and the parents of two children: Plimpton O., born 
May 6, 1822; and Daniel V., born in 1825. Our subject was united in mar- 
riage, December 12, 1854, with Sarah A. Huffman, born in Mahoning County, 
Ohio, October 11, 1831, daughter of Adam and Margaret Huffman, natives of 
Pennsylvania, who came to Mahoning County, Ohio, in a very early day, and 
from there to this county in 1833, where the mother died in 1846, after which 
Mr. Huffman married Cyntha French, who died in 1878. He died in 1883. 
Mr. and Mrs. Chapman have had ten children, eight now living: Wilber O. ; 
Ida M. (wife of Joshua Ely, a resident of Rootstown); Clifton G. ; Elwin V.; 
Corry G. ; Howard I. ; Stella Z. and Erzula G. The deceased are Ella and 
Floyd. Our subject, who has been a farmer through life, owns seventy-six 
acres of land, where he and his family reside. He has tilled the oflSces of 
Trustee of his township, and has been member of the School Board for a great 
many years. 

D. V. CHAPMAN, farmer, P. O. Rootstown, was born near the farm 
where he now resides November 1, 1825; son of Stephen and Barbara Chap- 
man, of whom the former, a native of Connecticut, came to Rootstown, this 
county, in 1804; the latter, born in Connecticut, came here in 1820. They 
were among the first inhabitants of the township. They were married in 
1821, and remained in Rootstown Township until their death, the mother 
dying in 1861, the father in 1872. They were the parents of two children: 
Plimpton O. and D. V. Our subject was married, October 30, 1856, to Lucy 
A. Case, born in Rootstown Township, this county, September 16, 1836, 
daughter of Erastus and Minewell Case, the latter of whom is deceased. 
Mrs. Chapman died July 16, 1860. Mr. Chapman is now engaged in farming, 
and owns ninety- four acres of improved land where he resides. He is a very 
sociable and genial old gentleman. 

HOMER CHAPMAN, farmer, P. O. New Milford, was born in Rootstown 
Township, this county, November 19, 1831; son of Nathan and Mary Chap- 
man, natives of Connecticut, the former born February 5, 1783, coming to this 
county in 1805; the latter, born October 2, 1787, came to this county in 1806. 
They were married in 1806, and remained here until the death of the father 
in 1881. The mother still survives. Our subject, the youngest in their 
family, was married, February 2, 1857, to Zeviah E. Buttles, born in Bristol, 
Trumbull Co., Ohio, March 18, 1832, daughter of Friend and Electa Buttles, 
natives of Connecticut, and who after marriage settled in Trumbull County; they 
died in West Farmington. Mr. and Mrs. Chapman have four children: Leora 
E. (wife of F. P. Rood); Carrie M. (wife of W. W. Phelps); Eda M.; and 
Charles H. Our subject is a farmer and owns thirty-seven acres of good land 
where he and his family reside, and are respected by all who know them. 

JAMES F. CLARK, farmer, P. O. Rootstown. was born in this county 
August 20, 1817; son of Daniel and Mary P. Clark, natives of Connecticut, 



ROOTSTOWN TOWNSHIP. 867 

where they were married. They came to this county in 1817, and remained 
until the death of Mrs. Clark in 1829. After this event Daniel Clark married 
Lucy Norton, widow of Ancil Norton, and they resided in Kootstown Town- 
ship until their death, the former dying December 30, 1847, and the latter in 
1863. Our subject was married, December 15, 1839, to Catharine E. Norton, 
born in New York February 15, 1815, daughter of Ancil and Lucy Norton, the 
father a native of Connecticut, the mother of New York. They settled in this 
county in 1822, where they both died. Mr. Norton died in 1831, and his 
widow subsequently married Daniel Clark, of whom mention has already been 
made in this sketch. To Mr. and Mrs. James F. Clark have been born two 
children, one now living: James P., married to Emma Sadler; they have a son 
— Clarence. Our subject has been a farmer, and owns 100 acres of improved 
land where he and his family reside. 

L. COE, agent Cleveland & Pittsburgh Railroad, also Postmaster and 
express agent, New Milford, was born in Edinburg Township, this county, 
Febniary 23, 1838; son of Samuel A. and Jane Coe, former born in Massachu- 
setts in 1806, latter in Connecticut in 1805, and who were married in Roots- 
town Township, this county, in 1829, settling in Edinburg in 1830, where 
they remained for several years, then moved to Rootstown, where they resided 
until the father's death, November 21, 1878. The mother now resides with her 
children. Our subject was married, March 12, 1868, to Electa Decker, born 
in Cleveland, Ohio, August 16, 1842, daughter of Rev. Nelson and Anna 
Decker, the former born in New York, June 15, 1810; the latter in Carlisle, 
England. December 14, 1812. They were married in New York, in 1828. Mrs. 
Decker died December 28, 1878; Mr. Decker March 26, 1880. Mr. and Mrs. 
Coe, have one son — Howard D. , born December 21, 1868. Our subject was 
reared on a farm and learned harness and shoe-making, but since 1866 has 
been agent for the Cleveland & Pittsburgh Railroad, also Postmaster and 
express agent at New Milford. He and his wife are members of the United 
Brethren Church. 

WILLIAM P. COLLINS, farmer, P. O. Ravenna, was born on the farm where 
he and his family reside, February 5, 1831; son of Daniel and Nancy Collins, 
natives of Connecticut, who settled in this county in 1811, and here remained 
until their death. The father died in May, 1884, the mother in 1878. Our 
subject was married, June 11, 1856, to Harriet Snyder, born in Pennsylvania, 
April 21, 1836, daughter of Peter and Henrietta Snyder, natives of Pennsyl- 
vania, who came to Rootstown Township, this county, about 1837, where they 
remained until their death. Mr. and Mrs. Collins have had six children: Irv- 
ing L., Charles W., Wilford E., Ella H., Judd D. and Clayton R. Mr. Col- 
lins was reared on his present farm, which consists of ninety-seven acres, and 
his family are among the leading citizens of the county. 

JAMES COX, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Devonshire, England, 
December, 1837; son of Edmund and Jane Cox, natives of England, where the 
former died in 1869, and where his widow is still residing. Our subject was 
married the first time in England, in 1858, to Willmot Randle, a native of 
England, where she died in 1868. He immigrated to America April 9, 1870, 
and married, February 9, 1872, Mary Curten, born in Ireland, July 28, 1845, 
daughter of Timothy and Mary Curten, who reside in the State of New York. 
Mr. and Mrs. Cox are the parents of eight children, seven now living: James, 
William J., Samuel E., Ernest C, Frank H., Anna W. and Mary J. Willmot 
is deceased. Our subject is a carriage and wagon-maker by trade, but of late 
years has engaged in farming. He owns 125 acres of land, where he and his 
family reside. He has been a member of the School Board of this township. 



868 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

S. CRAIG, farmer and horse-dealer, P. O. Ravenna, was born in Trumbull 
County, Ohio, March 10, 1881; son of Andrew and Sarah Craig, natives of 
Virginia and Trumbull County, Ohio, respectively, and who immigrated to this 
county in 1845, remaining nine years, then moved to Sandusky County, Ohio, 
where they are now residing. Our subject was mai'ried, March 26, 1854, 
to Mary D. Colton, born in Rootstown Township, this county, June 16, 1835, 
daughter of Roswell and Ibbey Colton, former born in Tolland, Conn., latter 
in Deerfield, this county, who came from Massachusetts to this county, where 
they remained until their death. Mr. and Mrs. Craig have had four children, 
one now living — Nellie L. The deceased are Jutson, Ernest, and an infant. 
Our subject, who is a farmer and horse-dealer, owns forty-eight acres of 
improved land, on which he and his family reside. He is also a veterinary 
surgeon and has practiced for twenty-five years with good success. 

H. T. CUSHING, farmer and contractor, P. O. Ravenna, was born in Knox 
County, Me., April 11, 1839; son of Thaxter and Sarah Cushing, 'former of 
whom was a resident of Maine until his death, in 1839, at sea. His widow still 
remains in Maine. Our subject was married, December 3, 1866, to Sarah A. 
Bumpus, born in Chautauqua County, N. Y., August 8, 1843, daughter of 
Joshua G. and Mary A. Bumpus, who died in New York, former in October, 
1874, latter in May, 1873. To our subject and wife have been born three chil- 
dren, two of whom are now living: Minnie M. and Henry P. Thaxter R. is 
deceased. Mr. Cushing followed the sea until he was twenty years of age. He 
then went West, engaged in stone-cutting, and is now a contractor and builder. 
He owns 118 acres of improved land. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. , and is 
a F. & A. M. 

HENRY A. DEMING. farmer, P. O. Rootstown, was born in Rootstown 
Township, this county, February 23, 1841; son of Gideon Y. and Lucia Dem- 
ing. The former, a native of Berkshire County, Mass., came to this county about 
1828; the latter, a native of Connecticut, came to Hudson in 1820. They were 
married in Rootsto^yn Township, this county, where they remained until their 
death, Mr. Deming dying October 25, 1877, his widow January 16, 1884. 
They were the parents of five children, of whom only Henry A. survives. Our 
subject was married, August 28, 1865, to Cordelia M. Collins, born in Roots- 
town Township, this county, February 21, 1846, daughter of Leverett W. and 
Sarah Collins (both deceased); the former, born in Connecticut in 1811, died 
in 1867; the latter, a native of New York, died in 1863. To Mr. and Mrs. 
Deming have been born three children: Minnie C, Bertha L. and Vernon H. 
The family are all members of the Congregational Church. Mr. Deming, dur- 
ing the late war of the Rebellion, served his country in Company I, One 
Hundred and Fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, from August 4, 1862, until 
Julv 8, 1865. 

ELIAS DRONBERGER (deceased) was born March 3, 1813, in Bedford, 
Pean. ; son of Henry and Esther Dronberger, natives of Pennsylvania, where 
they lived until the latter's death. Henry Dronberger was again united in 
marriage in Pennsylvania, where his second wife died, and he then came to 
this county, was married the third time, and here died. Our subject was mar- 
ried the first time to Charlotta Chapman, who died in this county; then, on 
August 1, 1848, he married Isabella L. McCain, born in Mahoning County, 
Ohio, December 4, 1820, daughter of Robert and Mary McCain, who died in 
that county. Mr. Dronberger and his second wife had three children: Will- 
iam R. , Melissa J., and Henrietta J., wife of Oliver Apple. Mr. Dronberger 
was a farmer through life, and at the time of his death, June 28, 1880, owned 
eighty-seven acres of land where his widow resides. She is a member of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. 



ROOTSTOWN TOWNSHIP. 869 

THOMAS DUNDON, farmer, P. O. Kootstown, was born in Brimfield 
Township, this county, November 12, 1825; son of Thomas and Martha Dun- 
don, the former a native of Ireland and w^ho immigrated to this county about 
1812; the latter born in Lancaster, Penn., and came with her parents to this 
couoty. They were here married, and passed the remainder of their lives in 
this county. Mr. Dundon died in 1831 and his widow, who subsequently mar- 
ried Jacob Miller (since deceased), died in 1864. Our subject was married, 
March 27, 1852, to Almira Terry, born in Randolph Township, March 13, 1833, 
daughter of Timothy and Almira Terry, natives of Connecticut, but who set- 
tled in Randolph Township in 1822, where they remained until their death, 
May 6, 1880, and December 17, 1878, respectively. To Mr. and Mrs. Dundon 
were born seven children, six now living: James W., Curtis A., Alice L, Har- 
riet A., Charlie and Clarence E. Frank is deceased. Our subject is a painter 
by trade, which he followed for thirty- eight years. Since that time he has 
been engaged in farming. He owns forty-seven acres of good land where he 
and his family reside. 

ALMON S. DUNNING, farmer, P. O. Ravenna, was born in Rootstown 
Township, this county, April 12, 1827, a son of Amasa and Polly Dunning, 
natives of Bridgeport, Conn., who came to this county in 1820 and settled on 
the farm where our subject now resides, and here died in 1838 and 1866 
respectively. Our subject was married December 29, 1847, to Edith A. Hol- 
comb, born April 19, 1829, daughter of William A. and Lydia A, Holcomb, 
natives of Connecticut, who settled in this county about 1825, where they 
remained until the latter's death in 1884. Mr. Holcomb resides in Ravenna. 
Mr. and Mrs. Dunning have two children: Anna E., wife of W. D. Gardner, 
and Frank A., married to Mattie Alexander. Our subject dealt in iron and 
steel for several years, but engaged in farming in 1880. He owns 164 acres 
of land of the old home farm, where he and his family reside. He is a mem- 
ber of the I. O. O. F. 

ALEXANDER J. ELY (deceased) was born in Ireland, May, 1811, son of 
Thomas and Elizabeth Ely, who died in the old country. Our subject was 
married July 16, 1832, to Jane Highland, born in Ireland, April, 1813, a 
daughter of Robert and Ann Highland, who remained in the old country until 
their death. Mr. and Mrs. Ely have had seven children, six of whom are now 
living: Elizabeth (wife of Samuel Hatrick), John T., Caleb S., Mary A. (wife 
of John Fenton), Alexander G. and Joshua A. William H. is deceased. Our 
subject was engaged in farming through life, and at his death, June 18, 1883, 
left 214 acres of good land in this county, and $12,000 in cash. He was a 
member of the Methodist Episcopal Chux'ch, as is also his widow, who resides 
on the old homestead, consisting of fifty acres of land. 

ELI FIFER, farmer, P. O. Rootstown, was born in Butler Township, 
Columbiana Co., Ohio, December 25, 1833, son of John and Polly Fifer, the 
former born in Virginia, the latter in Pennsylvania. They were married in Ohio, 
and settled in Cohimbiana County, but moved to this county about 1854, and 
here remained until the death of the father, August 14, 1877. The mother is 
now residing in Edinburg Township. Our subject was married February 13, 1855, 
to Sarah Shook, born in Canton, Stark Co., Ohio, August 3, 1837, daughter of 
Philip and Sarah Shook, who first settled in Stark County, but moved to this 
county about 1838, where they remained until their death He died April 12, 
1872, and his widow June 24, 1883. Mr. and Mrs. Fifer have had four children, 
three of whom are now living: Mary C. (wife of J. C. McManus), Cora E. 
(wife of Charles W. Evert) and Mason G. Judson A. is deceased. Our sub- 
ject is a shoe-maker by trade, at which he worked twelve years, since when 



870 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

he has been engaged in farming. He owns seventy- five acres of good land, 
where he and his family reside. He and his wife are members of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church. 

JOSEPH FRAZER (deceased) was born in Washington County, Peun., in 
1792. In 1823 he was married to Susana Poe, daughter of Andrew Poe, of Beaver 
County, Penn., and they moved to Jefferson County, Ohio, where they remained 
some years; then moved to Tuscarawas County and thence to this county in 
1832, settling in Rootstown Township on the farm where they both died, Mr, 
Frazer August 29, 1872, and his widow January 4, 1881. They were the 
parents of nine children, six of whom are now living: Elizabeth R. (widow of 
Harrison Sanford), Rusillus P., Rebecca (widow of George Bosworth), Joseph 
S., Harriet M. and Erastus; the deceased are Thomas, Mathew H. and Maria 
(widow of Amos Anderson). Our subject was a farmer and followed agricult- 
ural pursuits all his life, owning nearly 200 acres of improved land. He and 
his wife were both members of the Congregational Church. 

W. J. GARDNER, farmer, P. O. Rootstown, was born April 20, 1812, in 
Nantucket, Mass., son of Isaac and Debra Gardner, the former of whom was 
lost at sea in 1813. His widow remained in Massachusetts for a great many 
years, and died in Ohio, April 20, 1858, while on a visit to her son. Our sub- 
ject was married June 29, 1834, to Lydia C. Ray, born in Nantucket, Mass., 
October 22, 1812, daughter of Paul and Lois Ray, both of whom died in 
Massachusetts, the former December 6, 1846, the latter September 19, 1857. 
To Mr. and Mrs. Gardner have been born three children, two of whom now 
survive: Annie L., wife of Reuben Russell (deceased), and Isaac W., married 
to Annie Huber (they reside in Kentucky). George R. is deceased. Our sub- 
ject followed a sea-faring life for twenty-two years; then came to Ohio, locat- 
ing in Rootstown, this county, on the farm where he and his family now reside. 
He owns fifty acres of improved land. With his family he is a member of the 
Congregational Church. 

IRVING W. HALLOCK, farmer, P. O. New MilEord, was born in Portage 
County, Ohio, January 28, 1840, son of William R. and Julia Hallock, the 
former a native of Connecticut, the latter of Massachusetts, and who came to 
this county when they were mere children and where the father died in Octo- 
ber, 1864. His widow resides in this township. Oar subject was married 
December 26, 1867, to Eva F. Hewins, born in this county August 4, 1842, 
daughter of Seth and Elizabeth Hewins, both residing with our subject. Mr. 
and Mrs. Halloc-k have two children: Maretta E. and Louis M. Our subject 
has engaged in farming most of his life. During the war of the Rebellion 
he enlisted September 22, 1861, in Company I, First Regiment Ohio Artil- 
lery. He participated in several battles, was taken prisoner, and honorably 
discharged January 27, 1865. Mr. Hallock has filled the offices of Trustee 
and Assessor of his township with credit to himself and to the satisfaction 
of his constituents. 

RUCILLUS R. HARTLE, farmer, P. O. Ravenna, was born near his 
present home, in Rootstown Township, this county, May 19, 1825, son of 
Samuel and Polly Hartle, natives of Beaver County, Penn., where they were 
married and whence they moved to this county about 1812, and here remained 
until their death. Mr. Hartle died in 1850, and his widow in 1866. Our 
subject was married March 6, 1851, to Emma J. Likens, born in Mahoning 
County, Ohio, June 17, 1828, daughter of Thomas and Judy Likens, who set- 
tled in this county, and here died. To our subject and wife have been born 
seven children, five of whom are living: Alice, wife of Davis Smith; Emma 
A., wife of Marvin Madole; Eva R., wife of Frank Hackman; Grant and 



ROOTSTOWN TOWNSHIP. 871 

Oeorce T. Helen C. and Willie E. are deceased. Our subject, who has been a 
farmer through life, owns 100 acres of improved land where he and his family 
reside. 

SAMUEL HATRICK, farmer, P. O. New Milford, was born in England, 
July 12, 1828, son of James and Jane Hatrick, born in the north of Ireland, 
where the former died in 1856. Subsequently the widow and her son immi- 
grated to Portage County, Ohio, where she died in 1872. Our subject was 
married in 1863 to. Elfzabeth Ely, born in Ireland in 1834, daughter of 
Alexander J. and Jane Ely, the former deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Hatrick have 
had four children, one of whom is living — Alexander. Our subject is a tan- 
ner and currier by trade, but for the last twenty years has engaged in farming. 
He owns sixty-six acres of improved land where he and his family reside. 

SAMUEL HERRIFF, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Rootstown Township, 
this county, December 19, 1818, son of John and Susan Herri ff, natives of 
Pennsylvania, who came to Ohio about 1805, and here died. Our subject was 
married June 5, 1844, to Lydia Hartleroad, born in Pennsylvania, February 
17, 1820, daughter of Laurance and Elizabeth Hartleroad, natives of Penn- 
sylvania, who immigrated to Ohio, remaining in this county until their death. 
Mr. and Mrs. Herriif are the parents of six children, three of whom are now 
living: Ira L., Ezra and Everet. The deceased are Emma, John E. and 
Celia E., wife of Ed. Atchison, who was instantly killed by lightning. Our 
subject, has been a farmer all his life, owns sixty acres of improved land and 
with the family has lived on his present farm forty-four years. They are 
among the early pioneers of the county. 

JOHN HERRIFF, farmer, P. O. Ravenna, was born in Rootstown Township, 
this county, November 18, 1827, son of Jacob and Catharine Herriff, the former 
a native of Mahoning County, Ohio, the latter of Lancaster, Penn. They 
were married in this county, where they settled about 1826, and remained until 
his death, July 28, 1871. His widow is still living. Our subject is the oldest 
of the family, consisting of fourteen children, eight of whom are now living: 
John, Andrew, Susan, Julius, William, Viola, Henrietta and Amelia. Mr. 
Herriff is a carpenter by trade, but of late years has engaged in farming. He 
owns nearly fifty-eight acres of improved land where he resides. He is a 
descendant of one of the old pioneer families, and a pleasant and agreeable 
gentleman. 

GEORGE HIPP, farmer, P. O. Rootstown, was born in Europe, March 10, 
1818, son of John G. and Anna Hipp, natives of Europe, who came to America 
in 1832 and first settled in Stark County, Ohio, then moved to this county, 
where the former died May 10, 1852. His widow moved to this township, and 
resided with our subject until her death in 1875. George Hipp was married 
the first time, in 1839, to Christina Ausf ahl, born in Europe, and who came with 
her parents to this country. She died in 1874, a member of the Reformed 
Church. By this union was one child— John G., who died in 1853. In 1876 
Mr. Hipp married Jacobina Loesch, a widow with two children: Cettie, wife 
of Benjamin Fox, and Philip Loesch. (She was born in Germany March 20, 
1832). Our subject owns seventy-seven acres of good land. He and his wife 
are members of the Reformed Church. 

■ JOSEPH HOLDEN (deceased) was born in Massachusetts December 14, 
1801, son of Levi and Mary Holden, who died in Massachusetts. Our subject 
came to this county in 1830, and in September of that year was married to 
Electa Witherell, born in Massachusetts March 23, 1806, daughter of John 
and Hannah Witherell, who remained in Massachusetts until the former's death 
in 1814, when his widow came to this county and remained with Mr. and Mrs, 



872 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Holden until her death, March 22, 1856. Mr. and Mrs. Holden have had ten 
children, eight of whom are now living: Charles H., John A., Edwin, 
George W., tVilliam A.., Francis, Emma B. and Gilbert L. The deceased are 
Joseph D. and Anna E, Our subject was a farmer, and at one time owned 
1,000 acres of land in this county, but at the time of his death only the 
farm where his widow and daughter reside. He died in Rootstown Town- 
ship August 16, 1879, leaving his family and numerous friends to mourn his 
loss. 

SILAS A. HUNGERFORD, farmer, P. O. New Milford, was born in 
Independence Township, Cuyahoga Co., Ohio, November 1, 1846, son of 
Horace and Caroline Hungerford, natives of Ohio and Connecticut respect- 
ively, and who married in Cuyahoga County, Ohio, where they lived for a num- 
ber of years, then moved to this county in 1866, where they remained until 
Mrs. Hungerford's death, which occurred May 4, 1876, after which Mr. Hun- 
gerford married Mrs. Lorinda Wilcox, and now resides in Stowe, Summit Co., 
Ohio. Our subject was married August 9, 1883, to Mrs. Belle Chapman, born 
in Stark County, Ohio, December 7, 1853, daughter of Jefferson and Sarah J. 
Finch, and the widow of Beman Chapman, by whom she had one son — Clyde 
I. Chapman. Mr. and Mrs. Hungerford have one child — Frederic, born June 
24, 1884. Our subject has been engaged in farming through life, and owns 
seventy-seven acres, mostly improved land. He is a F. & A. M. His wife is 
an adherent of the United Brethren Church. 

ADAM KLINE, farmer, P. O. Rootstown, was born in Germany Septem- 
ber 18, 1818, son of Peter and Barbara Kline, natives of Germany, and who 
immigrated to America in 1839, settling in Randolph Township, this county, 
where they remained the rest of their lives. Mr. Kline died in 1867; his wife 
in 1849. Our subject was married April 6, 1844, to Barbara Knapp, born in 
Germany in 1824, daughter of Peter Knapp, deceased. To this union have 
been born the following children: Elizabeth, Barbara, Margaret, Mary, 
Henry, John and George, living, and Adam and an infant, deceased. Our 
subject worked on the canal for fifteen years, after which he engaged in farm- 
ing, an occupation he has since followed. He settled in Rootstown Township, 
this county, in 1844, and owns 173 acres of improved land, where he and his 
family reside. 

JOHN A. KLINE, farmer, P. O. Rootstown, was born in Germany July 3, 
1824, son of Peter and Barbara Kline, natives of Germany, and who emigrated 
to Randolph Township, this county, in 1839, where they lived and died, latter 
in 1849, former in 1867. Our subject was married in February, 1849, to Bar- 
bara Trares, born in Germany June 16, 1828, daughter of Matthias and 
Elizabeth Trares, both now deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Kline were born 
nine children, four now living: John, Henry, Charley and Elizabeth. The 
deceased are Barbara, Mary, Frank and two infants. Mr. Kline has farmed 
all his life, and owns 134 acres of good land where he and his family reside. 
He settled in Rootstown Township, this county, in 1849, and has filled the 
office of Trustee with credit to himself and to the satisfaction of his constitii- 
ents. The family are members of the Catholic Church. 

ROBERT A. MoMANUS, farmer, P. O. Rootstown, was born in this 
county January 20, 1837, son of Jacob and Fidelia McManus, natives of Ohio, 
who settled in Rootstown Township, where they lived several years, then moved 
to Indiana, and there they have resided twenty years. Our subject was married 
May 29, 1864, to Mary J. Bogue, born in this county July 13, 1842, daughter 
of Newell and Sallie Bogue, now of Medina County, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. 
McManus are the parents of two children: Henry J., born January 8, 1866, 



ROOTSTOWN TOWNSHIP. , 873 

and Nellie J., born February 10, 1868. Mr. McMauus, who was reared on a 
farm, now owns forty acres of good land in Kootstown Township. 

SAMUEL R. MIX, farmer,' P. O. New Milford, was born in Connecticut, 
February 23, 1807, son of Josiah and Keziah Mix, natives of Connecticut, 
where they were married, and whence they came to this county, in 1816, 
remaining until their death. Josiah Mix was born March 7, 1754, and died 
May 13, 1845. Mrs. Keziah Mix was born March 25, 1768, died August 8, 
1850. She was second wife of Mr. Mix; his first wife, who died in 1802, 
being Mindwell Rice, sister of his second wife, whose maiden name was Keziah 
Rice. Our subject was married February 23, 1830, to Jane Case, born in 
Massachusetts, July 29, 1812, daughter of Gideon and Persis Case, both 
deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Mix have had six children, three of whom are living: 
Ellen, Newell and Miles. The deceased are Persis, Asenath and Phebe. 
Mrs. Jane Mix died December 19, 1862, andj Mr. Mix was married Septem- 
ber 29, 1863, to Tryphena Chapman, born in Rootstown Township, this county, 
December 29, 1812' daughter of Ephraim and Fannie Chapman, both deceased. 
She died in November, 1880. Our subject owns fifty acres of land where he 
lives; he has filled the office of Justice of the Peace of Rootstown Township 
for three years. 

JAMES S. MOXJLTON, farmer, P. O. Rootstown, was born in Massachu- 
setts, February 10, .1815, son of Jeremiah and Martha Moulton, natives of 
Massachusetts, who came to Ohio in 1817, and remained in this county until 
their death. They were forty -two days on the way from Massachusetts to 
Ohio, and came in a wagon covered with clapboards, drawn by a team of oxen, 
arriving in Brimfield November 17, 1817. Jeremiah Moulton died in 1851, 
his wife in 1845. Our subject married, July 4, 1838, Ann Varnormer, born in 
Pennsylvania, daughter of Samuel and Ann Varnormer, who remained in 
Pennsylvania, where they died. Mr. and Mrs. Moulton had five children, three 
now living: Mary J. (wife of Samuel Stine), Lafayette and Hamer. The 
deceased are Adelaide (wife of Nelson McManus) and Helen. Mrs. Moulton 
died June 6, 1884. Mr. Moulton, who has been engaged in farming all his 
life, owns 100 acres of land. He has filled the office of Trustee of his town- 
ship. 

GEORGE NEWMAN, farmer, P. O. Ravenna, was born at Cleveland, 
Ohio, September 1, 1843, son of George and Caroline Newman, natives of 
England, and who immigrated to Cleveland in 1842, where they have remained 
ever since. Our subject was married October 1, 1864, to Tryphena Gee, born 
in Sandusky, Ohio, July 26, 1851, daughter of Peter and Lydia Gee, natives 
of England and Sandusky, Ohio, respectively, and who now reside m Cleve- 
land, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Newman have three children: Frank, Clara B. and 
Laura M. Our subject is a molder by trade, but of late years has engaged in 
farming, and owns 106 acres of improved land where he and his family reside. 
He was a member of the council of Cleveland, Ohio, and moved to Rootstown 
Township, this county, to remain, in May, 1879, since which time he has been 
a member of the School Board of his township. 

STEPHEN B. PARSONS, farmer, P. O. Rootstown, was born on the farm 
where he now resides in Rootstown Township, February 12, 1851; son of John 
S. and Lucy S. Parsons, natives of Massachusetts; the former born in North- 
ampton, April 6, 1809, the latter in Southampton, January 5, 1810. They 
were manned in Massachusetts April 26, 1832, and the same year came to this 
county, where they remained. Their family numbered four children, two of 
whom are now living: Lucy W., wife of Wells Seymour, and Stephen B. The 
deceased are John S. and Mary T., the first wife of J. H. Ray (whose sketch 



874 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

appears in this volume). John S. Parsons died February 12, 1878, and hi& 
widow is now residing on the home farm with our subject and wife. Our sub- 
ject was married September 27, 1871, to Ellen M. Keed, born in Rootstown 
Township, this county, January 22, 1853, daughter of Otis and Melissa Reed 
(former deceased). To our subject and wife have been born four children: 
Fannie R., John S., Arthur O. and Charlie H. Mr. Parsons has been engaged 
in farming all his life, and owns considerable real estate. He and his wife and 
mother are members of the Congregational Church, and are among the first 
families of the county. 

A. M. POWERS, physician, Rootstown, was born in Trumbull, now Mahon- 
ing County, Ohio, January 28, 1837; son of James and Rebecca Powers, natives 
of Trumbull County. After Mahoning County was laid off, it took in that 
part of Trumbull County where James Powers and family resided, and he was 
elected the first Sheriff of the new county. In April, 1873, they moved to 
Rootstown Township, where Mrs. Powers died Avigust 21, 1882. Mr. Pow- 
ers is still a resident of this township. The subject of our sketch was mar- 
ried the first time in 1858 to Miss Cynthia A. Sherwin, who was born May 3, 
1839, in Trumbull County, Ohio. The Doctor, with his wife and three chil- 
dren, came to Rootstown November 10, 1868, where Mrs. Powers died Septem- 
ber 11, 1874. He subsequently married. May 10, 1876, Mrs. Sarah L. Bar- 
low, of Rootstown, who was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, March 1, 1843. 
Our subject is the father of four childi'en, three of whom are now living: 
Frank R., Harry W. and Jessie A. John E. died June 25, 1875. The Doc- 
tor is a graduate of the Eclectic Medical Institute, Cincinnati, Ohio. Has 
been engaged in the practice of medicine since March 1, 1861, and has won 
for himself a large share of public patronage. He is a member of the I. O. 
O. F. and Royal Arcanum; has been Treasurer of Rootstown Township two 
years. He has been a prominent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church 
since September, 1855. His first wife was a worthy member of the same 
church for many years previous to her death. His present wife is an adher- 
ent of the Congregational Church. 

GEORGE W. PRINDLE, farmer, P. O. New Milford, was born on the 
farm where he and his family reside, February 23, 1832; son of Gideon Hiram 
R. and Mary (Williams) Prindle, the former a native of Vermont, born April 
18, 1803, and brought to Rootstown Township, this county, in 1807; the lat- 
ter a native of Pennsylvania, born December 28, 1798, and came to Rootstown 
Township in 1818. They were married December 16, 1825, ands ettled in Roots- 
town Township in a very early day, remaining until the father's death, January 
28, 1865. The mother now resides with her son, George W. They had two 
children: Robert R., born October 2, 1826, died September 23, 1838, and 
George W. Our subject was married, January 2, 1860, to Caroline E. Gur- 
ley, born in Rootstown Township, this county, October 15, 1837, daughter of 
Asher D. and Pamelia Gurley, who settled in this county and remained till 
her death in July, 1864. To Mr. and Mrs. Prindle have been born five children: 
Hiram A., Belle E., William G., Blanche F. and Robert G. Mr. Prindle, who 
has been a farmer all his life, owns 290 acres. He is a member of the I. O. 
O. F., and has filled the ofiice of Trustee of his Township. 

JAMES H. RAY, farmer, P. O. Rootstown, was born in Nantucket, Mass., 
September 6, 1839; son of Albert and Mary Ray, natives of Massachusetts, 
who came to Ohio in 1850, settling in Rootstown Township, this county, where 
the father died July 18, 1883; the mother still resides at Rootstown Center. 
Our subject was married the first time November 27, 1862, to Mary T. Par- 
sons, born in Rootstown, December 23, 1840, daughter of John S. and Lucy 



ROOTSTOWN TOWNSHIP. 875 

S. Parsons, natives of Massachusetts. She died September 19, 1869, and 
January 4, 1870, Mr. Ray married Phebe A., widow of John S. Parsons, by 
whom she had one child— Jennie S., wife of L. A. Reed, and daughter of 
Levi and May Beans, who settled in Randolph Township, this county, in a 
very early day, and where they remained until their death. By this union 
has been one child— Mary P., born August 25, 1872. Mrs. Ray is a member 
of the Congregational Church. Mr. Ray owns 180 acres of land. 

HORACE REED, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Rootstown, the first white 
male child born in Rootstown Township, this county, was born near his pres- 
ent home, October 8, 1805, son of Abraham and Silie Reed, natives of Con- 
necticut, who immigrated to Rootstown Township, this county, November, 1804. 
This was then called the Western Reserve and there we're only two little 
shanties in the place. Abraham Reed died January 6, 1849, his wife in 1834. 
Our subject was married May 24, 1826, to Lois E. Baldwin, born in Massa- 
chusetts February 7, 1803, daughter of John and Esther Baldwin, natives of 
Massachusetts, who came to this county in 1811, and remained until their 
death. Former died April 18, 1845, and latter September 17, 1848. Mr. and 
Mrs. Reed are the parents of seven children: Melissa E., wife of Edward E. 
Chapman; Anjanette, wife of Alfred Baldwin; John H., in Nebraska; Edward 
A., in Tennessee; Cornelius A., present Probate Judge of this county; Horace 
L., of Mansfield, Ohio, and Julia A. Our subject has engaged in farming all 
his life, and for about twenty years dealt in stock. He now owns 200 acres of 
land, but has been possessor of as much as 500 acres at one time. Mr. and 
Mrs. Reed are a worthy couple and command the love and respect of all who 
know them. They celebrated their fiftieth wedding anniversary nine years 
ago, and are now the only couple living together in town that were alive at the 
time of their marriage. 

HARVEY O. REED, farmer, P. O. Rootstown, was born in Rootstown, 
this county, June 3, 1856, son of Otis and Laura M. Reed, who were also born 
in Rootstown Township, the former January 10, 1810, the latter April 17, 
1813, They were married September 18, 1832, and settled where our subject 
resides, and here they remained until the father's death, January 18, 1881. 
The mother resides on the old homestead. They were the parents of seven 
children, four now living. Our subject, who is the youngest, was married 
October 1, 1879, to Emma J. Deming, born in this township October 2, 1855, 
daughter of Gideon Y. and Lucia Deming, who died October 25, 1877, and 
January 16, 1884, respectively. Mr. and Mrs. Reed had one child — Elsie, 
born December 23, 1883, died September 28, 1884. Mrs. Reed died December 
25, 1883. She was a faithful member of the Congregational Church. Our 
subject is a farmer by occupation. He is a member of the Congregational 
Church. 

MOSES SAPP, fax-mer, P. O. Ravenna, was born in Cumberland, Md.,. 
September 3, 1823, son of Jacob and Mary Sapp, natives of Maryland, who 
came to this county in 1828, remaining until their death. The mother died 
April 9, 1852, the father January 13, 1868. Our subject was married Septem- 
ber 12, 1850, to Fannie Y^oder, born in Wayne County, Ohio, October 3, 1829, 
and to this union has been born one son — Horton J., born January 18, 1852, 
and married September 30, 1874, to Laura E. Caris, a native of Franklin 
Township, this county, born August 12, 1850, daughter of Michael and Julia 
A. Caris, residing in Ravenna Township. Mr. and Mrs. Horton J. Sapp had 
twins, born July 30, 1875, one now living named Merton; the other died when 
four weeks old. Moses Sapp, our subject, who has been a farmer all his life, 
owns 140 acres of land. He has lived in Rootstown Township fifty-five years. 



876 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : 

L. C. SMITH, farmer, P. O. Rootstown, ^vas born in Franklin Township, 
this county, March 30, 1S34, son of Nahum and Julia Smith, natives of Mas- 
sachusetts, who came to this county in 1818 and here remained until their death, 
the mother dying in 1851, the father in 1863. Our subject was married August 
23, 1871, to Adaline Betts, born in Deerfiold Township, this county, July 8, 
1848. daughter of Matthew Betts. To this union have been born two children: 
Clyde C, born June 18, 1872, and Ray L., born August 24, 1874. Mr. 
Smith was engaged in farming until the war of the Rebellion, when he enlisted, 
August, 1862, in Company F, Forty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served 
till the close of the war. He participated in several severe engagements. 
After the war he embarked in mercantile business at New Milford, Ohio, then 
again engaged in farming. He now owns sixty-six acres of land, where he 
and his family reside. 

MARCUS F. SPELMAN, farmer, P. O. Rootstown, was born in Granville, 
Mass., May 31, 1809; son of Festus and Hannah (Dickason) Spelman, who 
settled in this county October, 1816, and remained through life. Festus Spel- 
man died October 8, 1818, and his widow subsequently married Dr. Belding, 
and died in^l826, after which Dr. Belding married the Widow Umphrie (both 
are now deceased). Our subject was married October 6, 1831, to Mary A. 
Reed, born in Rootstown Township, this county, October 2, 1811, daughter of 
Abraham and Siley Reed, natives of Connecticut, who immigrated to this town- 
ship in 1804, where they remained until their death. Mrs. Reed died June 27, 
1834, and Mr. Reed then married Drusilla Underwood, who died February 
14, 1846, when he married Mrs. Fidelia Goss, who survived him. Mr. and 
Mrs. Spelman have had six children, three of whom are now living: Comfort 
A. C, Asa M. and Henry L. The deceased are Henry, Joel R. and Olive A. 
Our subject first settled in Rootstown Township, this county, in 1819, but 
subsequently moved to Edinburg Township, where he remained till 1854, when 
h« I'eturned to Rootstown, and here he and his family now reside. His life work 
has been teaching, traveling as agent and farming, and by industry and fru- 
gality himself and wife have secured a competence for old age. He and his 
wife are members of the Congregational Church, in which he has officiated 
since 1860 as Deacon, also serving for many years as Sabbath-school Superin- 
tendent in Edinburg and Rootstown, and holding various civil offices. 

NATHAN TERRY, farmer, P. O. Rootstown, was born in Randolph Town- 
ship, this county. May 3, 1837, son of Timothy and Almira Terry, natives of 
Connecticut, who settled in Randolph Township, this county, in 1822, where 
they died, the father May 6, 1880, the mother December 17, 1878. Our subject 
was married July 25, 1858, to Elvira A. Woolf, born in Columbiana County, 
Ohio, May 16, 1840, daughter of Samuel Woolf, deceased, and to this union 
has been born one child — Florence A., wife of Lucius A. Deming, born Sep- 
tember 19, 1860. Our subject, who was reared on a farm, owns fifty acres of 
improved land, where he and his family reside. They are members of the 
Congregational Church. 

MARTIN T. WEENINK, farmer, P. O. Rootstown, was born in Holland, 
November lO, 1834; son of John H. and Jennie Weenink, who remained there 
until their death. Our subject was married, April 14, 1859, to Jennie C. Sam- 
burg, born in Holland, February 25, 1837, daughter of George and Jennie 
Samburg; the former of whom died in Holland in 1847, and his widow then 
married John D. Deuink, and with him immigrated to New York State, where 
they have since resided. To this union were born seven children, live of whom 
survive: Henry J., Anna C, May, George W. and Ida L. Jennie and Lizzie 
are deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Weenink immigrated to America the year they 



ROOTSTOWN TOWNSHIP. 877 

were married, and after remaining fifteen years in Cleveland, Ohio, came to 
this county. Our subject is a carpenter and joiner by trade, also a farmer, and 
owns seventy-eight acres of land where he and his family live. Mr. and Mrs. 
Weenink are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

S. C. WHIPPY was born in Nantucket. Mass., May 18, 1826; daughter of 
Thomas and Elizabeth Green, who died in Massachusetts in 1877 and 1875 
respectively. Our subject was married in Massachusetts June 15, 1851, to 
William S. Whippy, born in Nantucket, Mass., March 28, 1815; son of Josiah 
B. and Eliza W^hippy, natives of same State, the former of whom died at 
■ea in 1854. His widow then accompanied her son and his wife to this county, 
remaining with them until her death in 1865. To Mr. and Mrs. Whippy were 
born four children, two now living: William F. and Clarence E. The deceased 
are Susie E. and Eugene. William S. Whippy, like his father, was a ship 
Captain, and sailed the sea for twenty-five years. After he and his wife came 
to this county in 1855, he engaged in farming, but at the time of his death, 
February 10, 1881, was living a retired life. He was- a member of the Con- 
gregational Church, as is also his widow. 

JOHN WIEDEMANN, farmer, P. O. Ravenna, was born in Germany, 
October 5, 1818, son of Barney and Elizabeth Wiedemann, who remained in 
Germany, where the former died in 1832, the latter in 1856. Our subject was 
married March 18, 1841, to Mary M. Speallman, born in Hesse-Darmstadt, 
Germany, May 27, 1817, daughter of Anthony and Margaret Speallman, who 
died there in 1847 and 1858 respectively. Mr. and Mrs. Wiedemann have had 
eight children, five of whom are now living: Emmeline, Margaret, John. Bar- 
ney and Charles. The deceased ai'e Elizabeth, Abbie and John J. Mr. 
Wiedemann is a carpenter by trade, and came to Randolph Township, this 
county, in 1840. He has been engaged in farming for several years and owns 
seventy acres of good land in Rootstown Township, where he and his family 
reside. They are members of the Catholic Church. 

ASA WOOD, farmer, P. O. NewMilford, was born in Independence Town- 
ship, Cuyahoga Co., Ohio, August 13, 1821, son of Silas and Phila Wood, 
natives of New York State and Massachusetts respectively. Silas Wood's par- 
ents emigrated from the State of New Y''ork about the year 1809, and settled 
in Cuyahoga County, Ohio, coming all the way from near Utica, N. Y., by 
water in a small boat, following the rivers and lakes to Buffalo, on Lake Erie. 
They traveled by water as far as rivers and lakes would permit, and then 
would take their boat out of the water and hire it carried by team over land to 
the next river or lake that lay in their route, and so on until they reached Buf- 
falo; then they came by Lake Erie to Cleveland, Ohio, keeping close to shore 
all the way, running on shore at night and camping on dry ground; then came 
up Cuyahoga River by boat to the mouth of Tinker's Creek, in Independence 
Township, Cuyahoga Co., Ohio. Here they settled'and commenced to clear 
off the heavy timber, so that they might have farms to cultivate. At this time 
the country was full of Indians, and men when they went out to work took 
their guns with them to be ready against sudden surprise on part of the 
Indians, which might happen any moment. Phila W^ood's parents came from 
Franklin County, Mass., soon after the war of 1812, traveling all the way 
with horses and wagon. They settled in Independence Township, Cuyahoga 
Co., Ohio. Silas and Phila Wood (the parents of Asa Wood) were married 
and lived in Independence Township, Cuyahoga County, until the death of 
Silas Wood, which occurred January 20, 1825. His widow afterward married 
George Leach, of Northfield Township, Summit Co., Ohio, and lived there 
until her death, which occurred July 15, 1881. George Leach died February 



878 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

17, 1870. Asa Wood, our subject, was married June 8, 1841, to Ruby E. Rose, 
born in the town of Canton, St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., August 5, 1822. Her 
parents, Daniel and Polly Rose (long since deceased), moved from Canton, St. 
Lawrence Co., N. Y., and settled in Bedford Township, Cuyahoga Co., Ohio, 
in the year 1833, coming all the way with horses and a covered wagon. Asa 
and Ruby Wood, after they were married, lived in Little York, Northfield 
Township, Summit Co., Ohio, until April, 1872, when they moved to Roots- 
town Township," Portage Co., Ohio, purchasing of Rolland Hough the old Will- 
iam Holcomb farm, containing 124 acres, where they still reside. Asa Wood 
went to California in 1853 gold digging, and returned in 1856, since when he 
has followed farming ever since. To Asa and Ruby Wood were born four 
children: Josiah, Maria, Marilla and Frank, all living except Maria, who mar- 
ried Cassius Chamberlin, moved to Cass County, Mo., in 1872, and died Feb- 
ruary 7, 1873, aged twenty-eight years. Marilla W^ood married Francis 
Loughery, and at present resides at Marshalltown, Iowa. Frank Wood mar- 
ried Miss Maggie Bohloer, of New Philadelphia, Tuscarawas Co., Ohio, and 
at present lives in South Cleveland, Ohio. Josiah Wood lives in Rootstown, 
Portage Co., Ohio. Asa Wood and wife are members of the United Brethren 
Church at New Milford. 



SHALERSVILLE TOWNSHIP. 



EDWIN B. BABCOCK, farmer, P. O. Ravenna, was born March 2, 1811, 
the first white child born in Hiram Township, this county, son of Simon and 
Sabina (Tilden) Babcock, and grandson of Simon Babcock, Sr., and Col. 
Daniel Tilden of the Revolutionary war, who died at the age of eighty-nine, 
the latter of whom named the township of Hiram, giving a gallon of whisky 
for the privilege, and being a Freemason he named it after Hiram Abift, the 
founder of Masonry. He was one of the proprietors of the same. He also 
christened the stream, Silver Creek, after quenching his thirst and that of his 
horse in its clear waters. Col. Daniel Tilden was an uncle of Samuel J. Til- 
den, of New York, and Hon. Daniel R. Tilden, of Cleveland, Ohio, is his 
grandson. Mr. and Mrs. Simon Babcock, Jr., came to this county in 1809 to 
occupy lands owned by the latter's father, Col. Tilden, who did not settle here 
till several years later, though he owned several hundred acres of land here. 
Simon Babcock, Jr., subsequently went South and was never more heard from. 
His son, Edwin B., resided with his grandfather, Col. Tilden, in New York 
for four years, then returned to this county in the fall of 1820 and, purchasing 
fifty acres of land, began its cultivation. In 1821 he went to live in Shalers- 
ville with his mother, remaining with her till her death. She married Elijah 
Burroughs, and died at Garrettsville February 23, 1836, aged fifty-two years. 
March 26, 1835, he married Alma, daughter of John Hoskins, one of the early 
settlers of Shalersville. She was the youngest in a family of twelve children. 
To our subject and wife were born Helen, wife of William Walker, of Michi- 
gan; Christopher G., a prominent resident of Branch County, Mich, (he was 
twelve successive years a Supervisor in his county); George W., a bridge- 
builder, who was killed by falling from a bridge he was constructing in Shelby 
County, Mo., December 18,1882, aged forty three (left a widow and four chil- 
dren); Horace C, of Shalersville Township, this county; Amelia S. was married 



SHALERSVILLE TOWNSHIP. 879 

to J. W. Gray, died October 11, 1879, aged thirty-six, leaving four children, and 
Jaynes N., a model farmer of La Grange County, Ind., holds a prominent posi- 
tion in literary circles, serves his township in an official capacity. Mrs. Alma 
Babcock died February 11, 1846, aged thirty two years, and October 22, 1846, 
our subject married Amelia B., youngest of the nine children of Asa Crane, 
and by her he has two children: Sarah, wife of G. L. Horr, and William A., 
a lawyer of much promise in Cleveland. Mr. Babcock has a fine, well -regulated 
farm of 500 acres, and also a cultivated farm of over 500 acres in Branch 
County, Mich. He has conducted a dairy for fifty years. He has served this 
county several years in the capacity of Coroner, Trustee and Infirmary 
Director, and was one of the Directors and President of the Eavenna Savings 
Bank for several years. At the breaking out of the Rebellion he was 
appointed by the Government to enroll the township, and was afterward chosen 
by the citizens to fill the quota called for to relieve the township from draft, 
paid out about $17,000 for substitutes in Cincinnati and Cleveland, and not a 
man went into the service by draft. Our subject has been a resident of 
Shalersville Township nearly sixty-three years, and at this date (1885) there is 
but one person alive who was married when Mr. Babcock arrived in Shalers- 
ville, and that person is Alanson Lord, now in his ninety-first year. 

COLUMBUS BEARDSLEY was born in Nelson Township, this county, 
August 1, 1830, son of Clark and Sarah (Sherwood) Beardsley; was united in 
marriage February 10, 1857, with Miss Eleanor Peirce, daughter of Samuel 
E. and Betsy Hopkins. By this union there is one son — Willie — a farmer by 
occupation. 

JOHN BONNEY, farmer, P. O. Shalersville, was born February 24, 1806, 
in Cornwall, Litchfield Co., Conn., son of John and Orilla (Sherwood) Bon- 
ney, who, in 1813, were included with their family in a party of venturesome 
pioneers, consisting of Deacon B. Sherwood. Wells Clark, David Beardsley 
and some few others, who immigrated to Ohio. The journey in those days 
was one of privation and exposure, the experience of our subject's parents 
being augmented by the presence of a family of seven children. They came 
via Pittsburgh through Trumbull County, and on the last day out they were 
overtaken by a rain storm, which compelled them to camp in the woods. John 
Bonney, Sr., purchased a piece of land, about 200 acres, in Nelson Township, 
containing a small clearing, fenced with logs, and a log-house and barn 
(there was a cranberry marsh west of these premises, which, in the dry season, 
caught fire and destroyed everything in the vicinity, save the buildings), and 
the following year he died, leaving his widow with eight children to provide 
for. Upon one occasion the family existed for three days and nights on the 
milk of one cow and a quantity of soft maple sap, when they were relieved by 
some lady residents of Windham Township. About this time Bufi"alo was 
burned by the British, and our subject remembers hearing the cannonading on 
the lake. Bears, wolves and other wild game were plentiful, and at a hunt 
participated in by the inhabitants, twenty-five bears, six wolves and smali 
game in abundance were bagged. When our subject was eighteen years old 
he assisted his brother in clearing and fencing five acres of the old farm, and 
that year raised twenty-six bushels of wheat to the acre. Our subject has been 
twice married, first May 10, 1826, to Anna Brown, who bore him seven chil- 
dren, three of whom are now living: Orpha (wife of O. Brown), Lydia (wife 
of E. Smith) and Eliza (wife of C. Fish). Mrs. Bonney died in 1873, and in 
January, 1876, Mr. Bonney married Mrs. Melona Haight {nee Hurd), a widow, 
who had two children living: Emeline (wife of L Williams) and Addeu Haight. 
Mr. Bonney has been identified with religious endeavors for fifty years, beinc 



880 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

the greater part of the time a leader in the Discii:)les Church, while living in 
Freedom, Portage Co., Ohio. 

HARLAND P. BRADFORD (deceased) was born February 28, 1837, at 
Newburg, near Cleveland, Ohio, son of Grafton and Sharlane (Rice) Brad- 
ford, natives of Connecticut, who came to Ohio in 1832 or 1833, settling near 
Cleveland. Their family consisted of five children, one son and two daugh- 
ters now living. Our subject was a soldier in the late war of the Rebellion, 
enlisting in 1861, in Battery I, First Ohio Volunteer Artillery, and serving until 
1864, when he was wounded at the siege of Atlanta and larought home. He 
was married June 11, 1865, to Eliza C. , daughter of Cyrus and Clarissa (Wet- 
more) Prentiss, by whom he had the following children, all now living: Clifford 
P., Nellie W., William H. and Edith A. Mr. Bradford, for a time, was partner 
with B. F. King in the management of the Atlantic Mills. He subsequently 
disposed of his interest, however, and moved to his farm, where he died in 
September, 1881. He was a prominent citizen, and a social, genial gentleman. 
His widow is the daughter of one of the leading merchants of Ravenna, and 
is an amiable, Christian lady. She occupies the homestead farm. 

C. P. COE (deceased) was born May 18, 1801, at East Granville, Mass., 
son of James and Nancy (Pratt) Coe. His father's family had its origin in 
England, and mention is made of it in the third volume of Fox's Book of 
Martyrs, wherein is related the burning at the stake of Roger Coe, of Milford, 
Suffolk, by order of Queen Mary in 1555. Later it was ascertained that a 
Robert Coe was the first of the family to emigrate to America, coming in the 
ship "Francis," John Cutting, Master, in the fall of 1634. He landed in 
Boston, April 10, 1635, somewhat later than the Massachusetts colony, and 
settled at Watertown. From the New England records our subject could trace 
back his pedigree through nine generations. C. P. Coe was twice married, on 
first occasion February 11, 1823, to Lucinda Cutler, who bore him the follow- 
ing children: Nancy O., Orpha A., Celina E., Eben S., Henry B. and Amy A. 
Of these Nancy O. married J. W. Gay lord (had four children: Amy M. ; C. C, 
born February 22, 1851, died December 11, 1853; Charles C, married to Lelia 
Garfield, who has one child — Mary; and Lillian I.); Mr. Gaylord died August 
9, 1883. Ori^ha A. married Dr. E. L. Munger, and died May 21, 1877; Dr. 
E. L. Munger died in December, 1884; they left one son — Charles A. 
Celina E. married Malcome McCartey, and died January 5, 1875, leaving one 
daughter — Cora L., wife of F. W. Fitz. Eben S. married Helen Davis (have 
four children: Harry L., Frederick E., Florence H. and Clara L.) Henry B., 
who occupies the home place in this township, was married September 14, 
1863, to Annette, daughter of Samuel Goodell, an early settler of this county; 
(they have no children). Amy A. married John R. See (had one child — Nettie 
B., born October 24, 1862, died April 21, 1864). Our subject married for his 
second wife, INIrs. Laura Cunningham, who died May 5, 1884. C. P. Coe died 
January 31, 1885. 

E. M. CRANE, farmer, P. O. Shalersville, was born June 14, 1810, in 
Shalersville, this county, son of Simeon and Rachel (Catlin) Crane, natives of 
Salisbury, Conn., and who came to Ohio in 1801, first settling at Canfield, 
Trumbull County, having purchased land, and there lived until 1809, when 
they sold out and came to Shalersville Township, this county, where they 
passed the remainder of their days. They were the parents of four children, 
three sons and one daughter, two of whom are now living: Angenetta, widow 
of Sheldon Farnham, of Trumbull, Ohio, and E. M., our subject. Simeon 
Crane, previous to coming here, was Overseer of the Connecticut Iron Works, 
but after his arrival in Ohio he became a farmer. He was a son of Ezra Crane, 



SHALERSVILLE TOWNSHIP. 881 

who came to Ohio in a very early day, and whose family consisted of James, 
Jeremiah, Martin, Ezra, Belden, Dency, Simeon, Asa, Aaron and Calvin. Our 
subject has been twice married, on the first occasion July 1, 1835, to Lucinda 
A., daughter of Charles Streeter, who bore him three sons: Frank C, Auditor 
of the Lake Shore Kailroad at Cleveland, Ohio, and married to Elena M. Bur- 
nett; Charles S., tin and copper-smith in Ravenna Township, this county, 
married to Laura Sanford; and Seneca L., a resident of Kansas City, married 
to Addie M. McGowan. The mother of these children died in 1842, and in 
December, 1843, Mr. Crane married Sylvinia, daughter of Jason Streatoi', by 
whom he has had sis children: Cassius M., married to Marcella Bennet; 
Arthur E., married to Ella M. Beardsley ; Frederick J., married to Ella J. Pratt; 
Ann Jewett, wife of Col. O. C. Risdon, a soldier in the late war of the Rebel- 
lion; Clarice L., married to J. S. Tilden, Cashier of First National Bank 
of Garrettsville, and Elton P. His sons are all merchants. Our subject was 
Trustee of the first bank established in Garrettsville, and influenced its rechar- 
ter as a national bank on the suggestion of President Garfield. He has held 
various towuship offices; was Jifstice of the Peace for fifteen years. Trustee, 
Assessor, etc., and is looked up to as a citizen whose judgment and opinion 
should be received with consideration. 

SILAS CROCKER, farmer, P. O. Shalersville, was born April 3, 1799, in 
Chelsea, Vt, His father, David Crocker, was born in Norwich, New London 
Co., Conn., March 23, 1760, and came to Ohio in 1828. He was married to 
Sarah Jones, in New Hampshire, where she died, having blessed him with 
seven children: Charles, Jesse, Candace, David, Jabez, Silas and James H. 
Silas Crocker received his education in the country schools. In the spring of 
1805 his father's family moved to Lebanon, N. H. , and in 1808 his mother 
died, the family moved back from New Hampshire to Chelsea, Vt., in 1809, 
and in 1811 our subject joined the Thompson family at Williamstown, Vt. In 
the month of February, 1814, the Thompsons started for Ohio, young Silas 
going with them, and March 18, 1814, they arrived at Shalersville. They 
came via Buffalo, which at that time had but one house, the city having been 
destroyed by fire by the British. There were sixteen families in Shalersville 
when they arrived, and were all living in log-cabins. Streetsboro was yet 
unknown to settlers, and, together with Freedom Township, served for hunting 
grounds for a number of years. Mr. Crocker remembers having seen, as a 
result of a pioneer hunt in Freedom Township, twenty-five dead bears and 
nine wolves. He remained with the Thompson family until twenty-one years 
of age, when he began life for himself. He applied himself to his books 
during evenings, and obtained a practical knowledge of surveying. As the 
county became settled, he did considerable business in dividing lands and sur- 
veying roads. He also worked at the carpenter and joiner's trade for many 
years. He learned the distilling business, and followed it for three years. In 
the fall of 1824 Mr. Crocker returned to his native country to visit his rela- 
tives, and his expressed satisfaction with the Western country induced them to 
locate here later. February 4, 1827, our subject was married to Cynthia, 
daughter of Jonas and Eleanor Goodell, natives of Massachusetts and Ver- 
mont respectively, and the parents, of Dianthia. Linda, Carlton, Polly, Cyn- 
thia, Samuel, Sophia, George and Frinda. To Mr, and Mrs. Crocker were 
born two children: Homer, born February 4, 1828, killed by the kick of a 
horse April 13, 1839, and Sylvia, born August 10, 1835, married December 6, 
1857, to Lyman T. Hine, and died of consumption June 28, 1860. Mr. Hine 
has one son, Horace L. , born February 26, 1859, who has lived with his 
grandfather, our subject, since he was three years old. He is an energetic 



882 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

young man, full of pluck and lionesty, and ere long will be the possessor of a 
fair estate, the result of Mr. Crocker's labors. It is for him that our subject 
has inserted a portrait of himself and wife in the History of Portage County, 
and he will assuredly appreciate it as a gift "more precious than gold." Mr. 
Crocker voted lirst for Monroe, in 1820, for President, and has cast seventeen 
Presidential votes. He is an enthusiastic Republican. He is an A. F. & A. M. 
In 1881 he built a barn, doing the carpentering himself, and in 1883 he did 
the carpentering on a sugar house. He has been one of the Directors of the 
First National Bank in Ravenna since its organization in 1864. He never 
used tobacco in any form, and drinks no intoxicating liquor. Silas Crocker's 
connection with Portage County has been one of lionor and integrity, and 
coming generations will review his worthy career with sincere gratification. 

STODDARD DICKINSON (deceased) was born May 6, 1799, in Southing- 
ton, Conn,, son of Levi and Levina Dickinson. In 1821 he removed to Ohio, 
making the journey on foot, and settled in Aurora Township, where he pur- 
chased a piece of land. Having established a home, he was married January 
28, 1823, to Lucy A., daughter of Abel and Frelove Hine, who bore him eight 
children: Emma (born December 26, 1823; married December 31, 1840, to 
S. A. Sutliff, of Connecticut; died September 22, 1864; was mother of nine 
children, five of whom are still living: Altha, Alice, Mary, Seth and Frank); 
Janet (born June 29, 1826; died January 28, 1830); Adelaide (born February 
10, 1830; married March 17, 1856, to L. H. Colton, of Michigan, where they 
still reside; have two children: Allen L. and Mary); Ursula (born October 18, 
1831; married March 17, 1856, to M. D. Holcomb, of Shalersville, Ohio; died 
September 26, 1869; was mother of six children, two of whom are still living: 
Inez M. and Pearl M.); Allen (born March 26, 1834; enlisted in the war of 
the Rebellion in the autumn of 1861; was a member of Company F, Forty- 
second Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry; died July 17, 1863); Truman B. 
(born June 14, 1837; married January 24, 1859, to Jane P. Tuttle, of Free- 
dom, Ohio; have two children: Mertilla C. and Clifford T. He served six 
years as Overseer of the Portage County Poor, and has acted as agent of the 
Ohio Farmers' Insurance Company for the past four years, residing on the old 
homestead farm in Shalersville Township); Ansel E. (born May 21, 1845; 
married March 5, 1873, to Ella Arnold, of Kansas, where they now reside; 
have three children: Eda A., Walter E. and an infant); George W. (born Febru- 
ary 22, 1847; married February 22, 1876, to Delia Spencer, of Shalersville, 
Ohio). The subject of this sketch moved to Shalersville Township, this 
county, in the spring of 1826, where he resided with Abel Hine one year. 
He then purchased a piece of land two miles south of Shalersville Center, 
which he cleared and made his home until the spring of 1859, when he moved 
to a farm one mile south of Shalersville Center, where he died March 15, 
1872, and where his widow now resides with her son, George W. 

ADAM DIETZ, farmer, P. O. Shalersville, was born July 20, 1820, in 
Germany; son of Ferdinand Dietz, a vineyard proprietor and experienced 
horticulturist in that country. Our subject emigrated to America in 1842. and 
in October, 1844, was married to Miss Elizabeth Yale. By this union there 
are three children: Frederick, Elizabeth, wife of J. Rosa (have three children: 
Elmer, John and James), and Louisa, wife of L. Peck, all being among the 
leading families of Shalersville Township. Our subject is a careful farmer, 
and from his abundance enjoys the life of a retired gentleman. His farm is 
located in the western part of the township, and is under lease. 

GEORGE GOODELL, farmer, P. O. Mantua Station, Ohio, was born 
March 31, 1815, in Warwick, Mass.; son of Jonas and Eleanor Goodell. 



SHALERSVILLE TOWNSHIP. 883 

Jonas was born in Warwick, Mass. , married to Eleanor Ayer in Vei-mont, and 
emigrated to Ohio in 1815, with a family of eight children, Mr. Goodell 
having visited this State one year previous^and purchased a farm. He then 
returned to Massachusetts after contracting for the erection of a cabin, for 
which the consideration was $60. One child was born to Jonas and Eleanor 
Goodell after their advent here, and of their family of nine children, but 
three are now living: Cynthia, wife of Silas Crocker; Frinda, wife of T. J. 
Newcomb; and George. Our subject was married August 21, 1840, to Julia 
A., daughter of AVinthrop Dodge, by whom he had ten children: Ellen S., 
married August 27, 1861, to Charles K. Pierce, of Massachusetts, and who 
came to Ohio in 1857 (had three children: Louisa A., Hattie L., deceased, 
and Cora E.); George N., married to Jennie Spray; Julia A., wife of Eber N. 
Stocking; Harriet; Lucy, wife of William M. Dudley; Linda C. ; Bion; Jonas 
L. (deceased); Samuel C. (deceased); and Ezra B. (deceased). Mrs. Goodell 
died in February, 1879. Our subject, having divided the farm among his chil- 
dren, resides with Mr. Pierce, and is esteemed as a public- spirited citizen. 

PETER KIMES, farmer, P. O. Shalersville, was born March 17, 1818, in 
Harmony, Butler Co., Penn., son of John and Polly (Blair) Kimes, the latter 
of whom was a daughter of John Blair, a native of Ireland. Mr. and Mrs. 
John Kimes came to Ohio, with a family of eight children, in 1833, and pur- 
chased land in Shalersville Township. They were the parents of the follow- 
ing children: Henry, Martha (wife of Mr. Southers), Amos (deceased), John 
(deceased), Elizabeth (deceased wife of Mr. Lowery), Peter, David and Thomas. 
Our subject was united in marriage in 18-49, with Sophia, youngest of the 
three children born to Mrs. Doty, now a widow and a native of New Jersey. 
By this union there are four children: Amy (wife of F. D. Gray), Emerson 
B., Estella and Ada (wife of F. E. Armstrong. Mr. Kimes owns nearly 500 
acres of land, well improved, watered and with fine barns, etc., etc. He is 
one of the substantial, enterprising farmers of this township. 

AMOS J. KIMES, farmer, P. O. Shalersville, was born March 28, 1853, 
in Shalersville, this county, son of John and Mary (Doughty) Kimes. natives 
of Pennsylvania and New York, respectively, whose parents were of English 
origin. They came to Ohio in 1830, and settled upon a tract of land in Sha- 
lersville Township, now occupied by our subject, descending to him from John 
Kimes, his grandfather, the original purchaser. John and Mary Kimes were 
the parents of the following children: Cornelia E., Alma L., Lucy, Mary and 
Amos J. Cornelia E. married, in 1868, Henry Hentz, who was born May 16, 
1845. in Messina, N. Y., son of Peter and Mary Hentz, and came to this 
county when but twelve years of age, and lived with Mr. S. S. Coller. In 
1861, though but sixteen years of age, he responded to his country's call, and 
enlisted in the Forty-second Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, under Gen. 
Garfield, who, upon one occasion, during a long march, rested the boy by car- 
rying his knapsack. He was through all the skirmishes and battles from Mid- 
dle Creek, Ky., to Jackson, Miss., and returned home an honored soldier. Mr. 
and Mrs. Hentz have three children: John H., Birdie M., and Emerson K. 
Alma L. was first married to W. H. Whartield, by whom she had one son — 
Willie R. Her husband died in 1876, and she married in 1879 Mr. Drum- 
monds. Lucy is the wife of Thomas Lowery. IMary is the wife of H. Swal- 
low, and resides in Peoria, 111.; they have one child — Nettie. Mrs. John Kimes 
died February 10, 1858, and John Kimes died December 20, 1876, leaving to 
their children a fine estate in this county, lying along the Cuyahoga River. 
Amos J., the subject of this sketch, was married November 26, 1879, to Hattie 
L., daughter of Sawyer Irish, and by this union has been born one son — John S. 



884 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

JOHN W. McCOMB, Superintendent of the Poor, P. O. Eavenna, was 
born Mai'cb 26, 1833, in Ohio, son of John and Nancy (Dawson) McComb, 
natives of Lancaster, Penn., who were the parents of ten children, seven of 
whom are now living: John W., William, Nancy (wife of H. Tuttle), N. N. 
(who enlisted in the Union Army during the war of the Kebellion, remained 
till the close, and came out without a scratch), Wilbur, Anna (married to A. 
B. Christie, Principal of Convoy College, Van "Wert Co., Ohio, whei'e she is 
also Assistant), and Sarah (wife of B. Godard, a silver-plater in Charlestown, 
this county). Our subject's parents immigrated to this county in 18-11, and 
settled in Edinburg Township, where the father died. Their previous home 
stood on the State line between Ohio and Pennsylvania, and when our subject 
was born (in Ohio), his father, though not away from home, was in Pennsyl- 
vania. John W. McComb was married January 24, 1861, to Emily L., daugh- 
ter of James and Hira (Kneelan) Crane. By this union is born one child — 
Ray W., a young man at present attending Ravenna High School. Mrs, 
McComb died March 8, 1885. March 1, 1878, our subject was appointed Super- 
intendent of the Poor by the County Infirmary Directors, and still retains that 
position. He has been proprietor of a saw-mill. At the time of the breaking- 
out of the war, his brother William was a resident of the South, whei'e his 
effects were confiscated, and he himself impressed into the Rebel Army. While 
at Fort Scott he deserted to the Union lines, where he was identified by Ash- 
ley Crane, a cousin of our subject's late wife, and who was then in the North- 
ern Army, and sent to this county. 

BURTON PECK, farmer, P. O. Shalersville, was born September 13, 
1831, in Ellsworth, Litchfield Co., Conn., son of Elmer and Alma (Stone) Peck, 
and grandson of Bennoni Peck, who was killed in after years by a threshing 
machine. Elmer Peck came to Ohio at an early day, accompanying his par- 
ents, but became discouraged and returned to Connecticut, assuming the charge 
of the home farm there. Subsequently, however, he returned to Ohio, where 
he purchased lands. Our subject, the only child of his parents now living, 
was married May 28, 1854, to Rilla, daughter of Edwin and Nancy Chapin. 
By this union there are two children: Charles W. (married to Hattie Hinmon) 
and Nellie M. P. Mr. Peck resides on the home farm, which is under a high 
degree of cultivation and improvement. 

MRS. M. H. PECK, P. O. Ravenna, was born in Streetsboro, this county, 
October 17, 1842, daughter of Samuel and Clarice Hurlburt, natives of New 
Jersey and Connecticut, respectively, and who came to Ohio in an early day 
and settled in Streetsboro Township. Our subject was married February 12, 
1862, to W. Peck, by whom she had two children: Hurlburt (born April 25, 
1868, and who assists his mother in the charge of the farm) and Avis (born 
November 8, 1866, a teacher, and who is a young lady of rare promise and a 
comfort to her mother). Mrs. Peck resides with her family on a farm of sixty 
acres in Shalersville Township, which is well regulated, managed and improved. 

CHARLES R. SAGE, general merchant, P. O. Mantua Station, was born 
June 9, 1836, in Freedom Township, this county, son of Roswell and Minerva 
(Hawley) Sage, natives of Massachusetts, who emigrated to Ohio in 1829 and 
settled in Freedom Township, where the former still resides. Roswell Sage 
was twice married, the first occasion in Freedom, this county, to Miss Minerva 
Hawley, who bore him seven children, six of whom still survive: Harriet, 
widow of S. S. Hurlbut; Harvey H., of Collinwood. Cuyahoga Co., who is in 
the hardware business; Charles R. ; Olivia, wife of Eli Tuttle, of Freedom, 
this county; R. G., in the grocery business in Canton, Stark Co., Ohio; Clar- 
ence H. , proprietor of the Mantua House, Mantua Station, Ohio; Dwight, who 



STREETSBORO TOWNSHIP. 885 

died in Berrien Springs, Berrien Co., Mich., in 1875, leaving a wife and two 
children. Mrs. Sage dying in 1850, Roswell Sage subsequently married Mrs. 
Waittie Parshall, by whom he has three children: George, Theodocia and 
Florence. Our subject was married, January 10, 1877, to Mrs. Cornelia A. 
Beecher, daughter of Reuben Center. He owns a beautiful farm and resi- 
dence at the Center of Shalersville Township, this county, where he now 
resides; also a flourishing store at Mantua Station, which he has successfully 
conducted since the spring of 1884. He has no children. Mr. Sage is a suc- 
cessful, quiet, unassuming gentleman, and a pleasant one with whom to do 
business. 

B. S. SKIFF, farmer, P. O. Shalersville, was born December 30, 1820, in 
Sheffield Township, Berkshire Co., Mass., son of Benjamin and Martha (Brown) 
Skiff, who came to Ohio in 1833. They settled in Freedom Township, two 
miles northwest of the Center, where they resided until the death of the mother, 
after which the father made his home with his only son living, in Hiram, 
where he died. Our subject has been twice married; on first occasion to Miss 
Louise Fuller, who died without issue; and on second occasion to Mrs. Sarah 
H. (Wolcott) Everett. At the beginning of the war Mrs. Skiff (then Mrs. 
Everett) was a resident of Missouri, where her husband enlisted, in 1861, and 
died in the service. She then removed to Ohio with her two children, Francis 
and Zuella (deceased September 13, 1884), settled in Shalersville Township, 
this county, and married as above stated. Our subject, who is an enterprising 
farmer, is the owner of a well-improved farm here, which he carries on with 
the help of his step- son. He is a F. & A. M. 

A. L. TOMSON, farmer, P. O. Ravenna, was born August 80, 1839, on 
the farm he now occupies in Shalersville Township, this county, son of James 
C. and Eliza (Marvin) Tomson, natives of Williamstown, Vt., and who were 
the parents of five children: Martin L., married to Mary Edget; Almon L., 
our subject; James A., married to Lucy Leonard; Phineas B., unmarried; 
and Emma E. , wife of Charles Leete. James C. Tomson came to Ohio in 
1813, and after remaining one year in Cuyahoga County, removed to Shalers- 
ville Township, this county, where he remained until his death in 1866. 
Eliza, wife of James C. Tomson, was born in Shalersville, September 12, 
1816, daughter of Leelon Marvin, and died February 28, 1885. Our subject 
was married, June 6, 1865, to Sarah M., daughter of Ephraim J. Proctor, by 
whom he has three children: James C, Almon L., Jr., and Arthur. Mr. 
Tomson has filled the offices of Trustee and Assessor several years, and Justice 
of the Peace five years. He is a leading citizen, occupying the old home farm. 



STREETSBORO TOWNSHIP. 



ALANSON G. AVERY, farmer, P. O. Streetsborough, was born in New York 
City, December 14, 1810, son of Reuben and Rachel (Baldwin) Avery, natives of 
Greenwich and Danbury, Conn., respectively, and who settled in Aurora 
Township, this county, in 1815. His maternal grandfather was Samuel Bald- 
win, one of the pioneers of Aurora. Reuben Avery first settled at what is 
now known as Union Station, but subsequently removed to the farm now occu- 
pied by his son Reuben, which he cleared and improved, and where he lived 
until his death. He was twice married, first to Rachel Baldwin, who bore him 



886 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : 

six children: Malvina, wife of E. S. Harmon; Alanson G. ; Caroline; Eebecca, 
wife of Newman Squires (deceased); James (deceased) and Orlando (deceased). 
His second marriage was with Mrs. Corinne (Lewis) Faxon, widow of Isaac D. 
Faxon. By this union there were six children: Amelia, wife of M. Stanton; 
Minerva (deceased) wife of Julius Olds; Henry; Augustus; Eeuben; and Bet- 
sey, wife of A. Babcock. Our subject was reared and lived in Aurora Town- 
ship, this county, until 1839, when he settled on his present farm, all of which 
he has cleared and improved himself. He has been thrice married. His first 
marriage, in 1836, was with Deborah, daughter of Elijah Blair, of Mantua 
Township, this county. He next married, in 1846, Jane, daughter of Daniel 
Leonard, of Jefferson County, N. Y., and by this union there were three chil- 
dren: Floyd (deceased), Itta (deceased) and Jane. His last marriage, in 
1854, was with Melissa Kich, daughter of a pioneer of Streetsboro, and to this 
union were born two children: Anna and George. Mr. Avery is one of the 
leading farmers of Streetsboro Township. He has filled the office of Town 
ship Trustee several terms. In politics he is a stanch Democrat. 

HOWAllD BURROUGHS, farmer, P. O. Streetsborough, was born in Sha- 
lersville, this county, December 13, 1830, son of Simon and Lucy (Green) Bur- 
roughs, the former, a native of Alsted, N. H. , latter of Bethel, Vt. They were 
parents of the following children: Alamanda, wife of Albert Doolittle; Dudley; 
Annice, wife of Elias Musser; Howard; George and Henry, twins. Simon 
Burroughs settled in Shalersville in 1818, cleared and improved a farm on 
which he resided seventeen years, when he removed to Streetsboro and settled 
on the farm now owned by Horace Doolittle, which he also cleared and 
improved and where he liv^ed and died in 1864, in his seventy-fifth year, and 
his widow in 1873 at the age of seventy-nine. Both were active members of 
the Methodist Episcopal Church. The paternal grandfather of our subject 
was Joel Burroughs, a farmer of Alsted, N. H. , and his maternal grandfather 
was Araasa Green, a farmer of Bethel, Vt. Howard Burroughs was reared in 
Streetsboro, and educated in the common schools. From the time he was 
twenty- one years until twenty-nine he worked at the carpenter and joiner's 
trade, and then engaged in farming, which he has followed ever since. He 
was married March 10, 1859, to Sophronia, daughter of Daniel and Matilda 
(Morse) Bliss, of Kent, by whom he has five childi'en: Harry, Cora, Lura, 
Rilla and Fred. Mr. Burroughs and wife are members of the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church. He has served his township as Trustee three terms. In poli- 
tics he is a Democrat. 

EDWIN CACKLER, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Franklin Township, 
Portage Co., Ohio, April 10, 1824, and' is a son of Christian and Theresa 
(Nighman) Cackler (see sketch of C. C. Cackler, Franklin Township). His 
paternal grandfather, Christian Cackler, a native of Pennsylvania, settled in 
Hudson, Ohio, in 1804, and his maternal grandfather, Adam Nighman, a 
native of Maryland, settled in Franklin Township, this county, in 1809. Our 
subject was reared in Franklin Township, where he received a limited educa- 
tion in the common schools. He was married February 11, 1847, to Mary J., 
daughter of Oliver and Mary (Jerrils) Crosby, of Shalersville, who settled 
there about 1825, and were from New York. Her maternal grandfather was 
John Jerrils, a soldier of the Revolutionary war. Mr. Cackler and wife are 
members of the Disciples Church, of Kent. In politics he is a Democrat. 

JACOB CACKLER, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Franklin Township, 
this county, October 3, 1828, and is a son of Christian and Theresa (Nighman) 
Cackler (see sketch of C. C. Cackler, Franklin Township). He was reared in 
Franklin Township, this county, where he received a limited education in the 



STREETSBORO TOWNSHIP. 887 

common schools. He was married September 27, 1849, to Cordelia A., 
daughter of Oliver and Mary Crosby, of Shalersville, by whom he had five 
children: Mary A., wife of S. Fuller; Almond; Kate, wife of P. H. Fishel; 
Kittie, deceased, and Belle, deceased. Mr. Cackler is a worthy citizen of 
Streetsboro. In politics he is a stanch Democrat. 

WILLIAM COWLEY, farmer, P. O. Earlville, was born in Lincolnshire, 
England, April 27, 1815, son of William and Charlotte (James) Cowley. He 
was reared on a farm in his native town, and when twenty-one years of age 
emigrated to the United States, landing in New York City in the spring of 
1836, without a copper in his pocket. He then went up the Hudson to Albany 
and walked from there to Stockbridge, Mass., where he worked in a stone quarry 
one summer, and the following winter went to Philadelphia, following the 
same occupation there until the next spring, when he moved to Lee, Mass. , 
and worked by the month as a farm hand up to the fall of 1838. He then 
came to Ohio, and in the winter of 1838-39 worked on the Miami Canal from 
Defiance to Cincinnati. In April, 1839, he settled in Streetsboro Township, 
this county, a mile south of the Center, living there some five years, when he 
settled on his present farm, now comprising 482 acres, most of which he 
cleared and improved. Mr. Cowley has been twice married, on first occasion 
May 4, 1844, to Sarah, daughter of Samuel and Betsey (Green) Olin, of 
Streetsboro, this county, by whom he had nine children: Heniy B., William, 
Betsey (deceased), Eliza (wife of Levi Raber), Harriet (deceased), Albert, Ida, 
Emma (wife of Thomas Elliman) and Joseph J. January 8, 1867, our subject 
married his present wife, Chloe, daughter of Timothy and Frances (Rathburn) 
Brockway, of Trumbull County, Ohio, who were among the first settlers of 
Hartford, in that county. Mr. Cowley is one of the leading farmers and a 
representative citizen of Streetsboro Township. In politics he is a Democrat. 

ALBERT DOOLITTLE, farmer, P. O. Streetsborough, was born in New 
Milford, Susquehanna Co., Penn., October 7, 1806, son of Benjamin and Fanny 
(Ward) Doolittle, natives of Cheshire, New Haven Co., Conn., and Roxbury, 
Litchfield Co., Conn., respectively, and who settled in Streetsboro Township, this 
county, in 1825, on the farm now owned by our subject. They were the parents of 
the following children: Nelson; Albert; George, deceased; Henry, deceased; 
Lydia, wife of E. F. Mason; William, deceased; Polly J., deceased; Theodora 
B., deceased, and Eloisa, deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Doolittle were 
members of the Disciples Church. He was Justice of the Peace of Streetsboro 
two terms, and was a representative pioneer, one of the first in Streetsboro 
Township, and for several years was land agent for the original owners of the 
township. He died in September, 1849, in his seventy-ninth year, his wife 
having preceded him April 27, 1845, at the age of sixty-five. Our subject has 
resided in Streetsboro Township, this county, since 1825. He assisted in 
clearing his father's farm as well as several others in the vicinity, and also 
helped form many of the early roads. He was married December 22, 1836, to 
Alamanda, daughter of Simon and Lucy (Green) Burroughs, who settled here 
in 1818, the former a native of Walpole, N. H., the latter of Bethel, Vt. The 
issue of this marriage is four children: Charles R. ; Augusta, wife of N. S. 
Olin; Horace A., and Lucy A., wife of Charles E. Harmon. Mr. Doolittle 
has served his township as Justice of the Peace one term and in other minor 
offices. In politics he is a Republican. 

CHARLES R. DOOLITTLE, farmer and cheese manufacturer, Streets- 
boro, was born in Streetsboro, this county, August 31, 1837; a son of Albert 
and Alamanda (Burroughs) Doolittle. His paternal grandfather was Benja- 
min Doolittle, a native of Connecticut, who settled in Streetsboro in 1825, 



888 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

and his maternal grandfather was Simon Burroughs, a native of Walpole, 
N. H., who settled in Shalersville, this county, in 1818, and later in Streets- 
boro. Our subject was reared in Streetsboro, and educated in the high schools 
of Kent and Shalersville, this county. He was married February 10, 1864, to 
Adelaide, daughter of Samuel and Mercy (Seymour) Olin, of Streetsboro, this 
county, by whom he has had three children: Clarence S., Addie M. (deceased) 
and Mettie. Mr. Doolittle has always been occupied in farming, and has 
resided on his present farm since 1883. Since 1870 he has (in company with 
his father) engaged in the manufacture of butter and cheese. He has filled 
nearly all the minor offices of Streetsboro Township, and is now serving his 
third term as Infirmary Director of this county. In politics he is a stanch 
Republican. He is one of the enterprising farmers and business men, and is 
a worthy citizen of Streetsboro. 

LUCIUS O. ELDRIDGE, farmer, P. O. Streetsborougb, was born on the 
farm where he now resides, August 10, 1843, and is a son of Daniel and Mary 
A. (Mason) Eldridge, who had three children: Merrick E., Mary A., wife of 
Joseph Lindsey, and Lucius O. His father came to Aurora Township, this 
county, from Buffalo, N. Y. , about 1820, and afterward settled in Streetsboro 
on the farm now owned by L. O. Eldridge, which he cleared and improved, 
and where he resided until his death. He died in 1879, at the age of seventy- 
nine years. The subject of this sketch was reared on the old homestead, 
where he has always resided. He participated in the war of the Rebellion, 
enlisting, August 10,' 1862, in the Ninth Ohio Independent Battery, serving 
until June 20. 1865, when he was honorably discharged. He was married Sep- 
tember 29, 1869, to Augusta, daughter of George W. and Tryphena (Wilson) 
Barrett, of Streetsboro, by whom he has two children: Clarence and Clayton. 
In politics Mr. Eldridge is a Republican. He is one of the enterprising farm- 
ers of this township. 

JAMES FILLMORE, farmer, P. O. Streetsborough, was born in Middle- 
town, Rutland Co., Vt., July 14, 1817; son of John and Huldah (Whitmore) 
Fillmore, former of whom died when our subject was but four years of age. 
James Fillmore was then reared by his uncle, Asher Seward, of Jefferson Coun- 
ty, N. Y. , with whom he remained until seventeen years of age. He then worked 
by the month on a farm for one man until he was twenty-two years old, at $10 
per month. Mr. Fillmore maiTied, on the first occasion, January 1, 1840, 
Juliette E., daughter of Ezra Nutting, of Henderson, Jefferson Co., N. Y. His 
second wife was Sophia Myers, daughter of Stephen Myers, of Streetsboro, by 
whom he had one child — Dyer V. By his third wife, Rachel E. Likers, of 
Streetsboro, he had three children: One deceased in infancy, Luther U. and 
Lucia M., wife of Adelbert Pierce. His present wife was Mrs. Louisa French, 
nee Tucker, by whom he has one child — Gracie L. In 1840 Mr. Fillmore 
came to Streetsboro Township, this county, aad purchased fifteen acres of wild 
land, where he lived three years, and then bought thirty-five acres now owned 
by Curtis C. Singletary. In 1860 he settled in the southwest part of the 
township, where he still resides. He has been elected to the office of Town- 
ship Trustee two terms; in politics he is a Republican. 

LYNN HAWKINS, farmer, P. O. Hudson, Summit County, was born in 
Streetsboro. this county, November 3, 1843; and is a son of Jesse G. and Sally 
(Hubbell) Hawkins, who were the parents of eight children: Mary, wife of Z. 
Snow; Delia, wife of A. S. Cannon: Lewis; Lucy, wife of G. N. Wheeler; 
Louisa (deceased); Crayton; Lynn and Lillie, latter the wife of Sebastian Mil- 
ler. Mr. and Mrs. Jesse G. Hawkins settled in 1840 on the farm now occu- 
pied by our subject, part of which they cleared and improved, and where they 



STREETSBORO TOWNSHIP. 889 

lived and died, the father in 1850, at the age of sixty, and the mother in 1877, 
aged seventy-tive years. Our subject was reai'ed on the old homestead, where 
he now resides, and was married March 11, 1873, to Addie, daughter of Orris 
and Sally (Blair) Leach, of Twinsburg, by whom he had one child — Guy 
(deceased). Mr. Hawkins is an enterprising, public-spirited citizen; in poli- 
tics he is a Democrat. 

WILLIAM S. HILL, retired farmer, Streetsboro,waB born in Guilford, New 
Haven Co., Conn., April 19, 1810, son of William and Lucy (Scovill) Hill. 
William Hill, Sr. , was also a native of Guilford, and a son of Thomas Hill, whose 
father, Thomas Hill, Sr. , was originally from England. His wife was a grand- 
niece of Gen. James Wolfe, who was killed on the Plains of Abraham, at Que- 
bec, Canada, and a daughter of Israel Scovill, a native of Guilford, Conn. 
Our subject was reared in his native town until ten years of age, when he was 
thrown on his own resources. The succeeding ten years of his life were spent 
on the sea, starting in the capacity of cabin boy and ending as Second Officer. 
He then went to Wallingford, Conn., and worked as an assistant at the carpen- 
ter's bench until he learned the trade. He has been twice married, first, Sep- 
tember 29, 1831, to Ruth A., daughter of Isaac and Ruth (Rice) Page, of 
Wallingford, Conn. By this union there were three children: William H., Isaac 
P. and Elizabeth A. (latter deceased). April '21, 1844, he married his present 
wife, Asenath A., daughter of William and Eleanor (Wood) La Du, of Sha- 
lersville. His son W^illiam H. married Augusta C. Darling, and has three 
children: Le Ette A. (wife of Dr. C. A. May), Burdell A. and Henry S. ; and 
his son Isaac P. married Marion L. Lord, and has three children: William 
R., Arthur E. and Clayton E. On October 4, 1838, Mr. Hill settled in Streets- 
boro, locating on a farm on Lot 29, in the northeast part of the township, a 
part of which he cleared and improved. About 1852 he purchased an addition 
to his farm of eighty acres, and since 1850 has done a general dairy business 
in connection with his farming interests. He and his son are also doing quite 
an extensive business erecting the white bronze monuments (being sole agents 
in Portage County) at present manufactured in Bridgeport, Conn. ; they erected 
the first monument of the kind here to the late Henry Peck, of Streetboro, 
and have already put over 100 of these monuments in the county. Mr. Hill is 
a member of the Baptist, his wife of the Congregational Church. He is 
Treasurer of his church; has held the office of Township Trustee. In politics 
he is a Republican. 

SAMUEL W. JENKINS, farmer, P. O. Streetsborough, was born in Ellis- 
burg, Jefferson Co., N. Y., March 8, 1828, a son of Samuel and Ursula 
(Brewster) Jenkins, who settled in Streetsboro, this township, in June, 1837, 
locating east of the Center on the farm now owned by C. R. Doolittle, which 
they cleared and improved, and where they lived for many years. Samuel Jen- 
kins, Sr., was a native of Fort Ann, N. Y., and a son of Obiah Jenkins, for- 
merly of Providence, R. I., who was of Welsh descent and a soldier of the 
Revolutionary war. Ursula, the wife of Samuel Jenkins, Sr., was a native of 
Middletown, Vt. , and a daughter of Oramel Brewster, of English descent and 
a tanner and currier by trade. They had seven children: Julia E., wife of 
Henry Peck; Norman B. ; Evinice, wife of A. W. Hurlburt; Samuel W. ; Mar- 
tha U., wife of Rev. J. M. Chapman; Lydia, wife of Henry Peabody, and 
Wilbur A. Our subject, from nine years of age, was reared in Streetsboro, and 
has always engaged in farming. He assisted in clearing his father's farm, 
and when twenty-one years of age bought a farm adjoining, most of which he 
cleared and improved, and where he has always resided, excepting ten years 
at the Center. He has been twice married; on first occasion, in 1850, to Delia, 



890 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

daughter of Edward and Love (Spencer) Russell, who settled in Brimfield 
Township, this county, in 1829, and by whom he had two children: Eva, wife 
of Ransom Richards, and Sumner. October 5, 1870, he was united in mar- 
riage with his present wife, Julia, daughter of Alexander and Electa (Power) 
Wilcox, of Twinsburg. The issue of this union was three children: Stella, 
Theodore and Albert. Mr Jenkins has held various towmship offices; is one 
of Streetsboro's representative citizens. In politics he is a Republican. 

JAMES T. JUDD, farmer, P. O. Streetsborough, was born on the farm where 
he now resides in this township, October 20, 1838, son of Orrin and Minerva 
(Blair) Judd, parents of six children: Cordelia, deceased; Sophronia, wife of 
L. F. Wyatt; Mary, wife of John Wyatt; Amanda; Watson E., deceased, and 
James T. Of these Watson E. was in the late war of the Rebellion, serving 
in the Seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and died of disease contracted in the 
army after three years' service. The parents of our subject settled in Streets- 
boro in 1830, coming from Blanford, Conn., and here they cleared and 
improved the farm now occupied by James T. , and on which they lived the 
remainder of their days, one of the lirst families to help raise the Baptist 
standard in Streetsboro, dying in full faith of eternal life. Our subject was 
reared on the old homestead, and was educated in the common and select 
schools. He was married January 26, 1864. to Huldah L., daughter of Ana- 
nias and Samantha (Squires) Derthick, of Bedford, Ohio, by whom he has 
five children: Nellie, Carrie, Mertie, Addie and Clayton O. Mr. Judd, wife 
and three eldest daughters are members of the Baptist Church. In politics he 
is a Republican. 

D. F. McGrREW (deceased) was born in Springfield, Summit Co., Ohio, 
July 18, 1830, son of William McGrew, an early settler of Streetsboro Town- 
ship, this county, who cleared and improved a farm here, on which he lived and 
died. William McGrew was parent of six children: Margaret; D. F. , our sub- 
ject; Willis, deceased; Delight; Newton, deceased, and William. Our subject 
was reared in Streetsboro, this county, where he learned the shoemaker's trade, 
which he followed all his life. He also conducted a small farm. He was mar- 
ried October 24, 1852, to Elizabeth, daughter of Stephen and Rebecca (Wal- 
ker) Myers, first settlers of Streetsboro Township, this county. Mrs. McGrew's 
grandfather, Mr. Myers, was a pioneer of Streetsboro Township, and lived to 
be one hundred and six years old. To our subject and wife was born one child 
— Emma C , wife of E. C. Root. Mr. McGrew's father dying when he was 
but eight years of age, he was thus early thrown upon his own resources, and 
as a consequence his schooling was very limited, yet at the time of his death 
he was a man well versed in matters of history and general information. The 
young came to him for advise and counsel, and the middle-aged found in him 
a friend and co-worker in all matters pertaining to the elevation and improve- 
ment of society. He was a member of the Congregational Church, took an 
active interest in the Sabbath-school, and for many years was Superintendent, 
teacher and one of its most earnest workers. He was elected to the office of 
Justice of the Peace two terms, and was serving in this office at the time of his 
death. In politics he was ever a Democrat. Mr. McGrew died July 5, 
1878, in his forty-eighth year. 

GEORGE D. McGREW\ farmer, P. O. Earlville, was born in Streetsboro, 
this county, November 18, 1838; son of George B. and Susannah (Martin) 
McGrew, latter of whom died February 29, 1884. She was a daughter of Rob- 
ert and Mary Martin. George B. McGi'ew was born in Springfield, Mahoning 
Co., Ohio, March 6, 1803, son of Archibald and Margaret (Baird) McGrew, 
natives of Westmoreland County, Penn. He was reared in Springfield (now 



STREETSBORO TOWNSHIP. 891 

Summit County), Ohio, where he lived until thirty years of age, and in 1833 set- 
tled in Streetsboro, this county, and cleared and improved the farm now owned 
by R. H. Peck, where he resided up to 1860, when he settled on his present farm 
in the southern part of the township, a part of which he also cleared. He 
was married, February 6, 1838, to Susannah, daughter of Robert and Mary 
Martin, of Beaver County, Penn., by whom he had ten children: George D., 
William T., Mary (deceased), Robert M. (deceased), Margaret B., Archibald D., 
Marcia F., Sarah E., Scott M., Susan D. (Mrs. A. N. Sperry). The father is 
a prominent member of and a Deacon in the Presbyterian Church, with which 
he has been connected upward of fifty years. The subject of this sketch was 
reared in his native place, where he has always resided, and was educated in 
the common and high schools. He served in the late war of the Rebellion, 
enlisting August 9, 1862, in the Ninth Ohio Independent Battery, and was 
honorably discharged June 16, 1865. He was married, November 18, 1869, to 
Alvira E., daughter of Samuel and Emily (Newton) Stone, of Tallmadge, 
Ohio, by whom he has had five children: George B. (deceased), Alvin N., Susan 
R., Emma D. and Bertha M. Mr. and Mrs. McGrew are members of the Pres- 
byterian Church, of which he is an ofiScer; he has been Superintendent of the 
Sabbath-school several terms. Our subject is a member of the G. A. R. In 
politics he is a Republican. 

ORRIN NIGHMAN, farmer, P. O. Earlville, was born in Streetsboro, this 
county, November 10, 1832; son of Frederick and Parmelia (Van) Nigbman, 
who were the first couple married in Streetsboro. His paternal grandparents 
were Adam and Betsey Nighman, formerly of Westmoreland County, Penn., 
and who settled in Franklin Township, this county, in 1809. His maternal 
grandparents were Absolem and Abigail Van, the former of whom was a native 
of Vermont and an early settler of Stowe, now in Summit County, Ohio. Our 
subject was reared in his native town, where he has always resided. He was 
married, July 2, 1863, to Mary, daughter of Abram B. and Jane M. (Clark) 
Nash, of Streetsboro, natives of New York and Pennsylvania respectively. 
Mrs. Nighman's paternal grandfather was Jonathan Nash, a native of Great 
Barrington, Mass., a farmer by occupation, who settled in New Hartford, N. 
Y., in 1802, but removed to Ohio in 1834, and died in Penfield, Lorain County, 
January 15, 1838. Her maternal grandfather was Robert Clark, a native of 
Pennsylvania, and an early settler of Streetsboro. Mr. and Mrs. Nighman 
have had three childi'en: Gertie L., an infant sou (deceased) and Alvin W. 
They reside on the old homestead on which his father settled in 1832. Mrs. 
Nighman is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics our 
subject is a Democrat. 

ALONZO E. OLIN, farmer, P. O. Earlville, was born in Perry, N. Y. , May 
18, 1820: son of Samuel and Betsey (Green) Olin, who settled in Streetsboro in 
1839, where they cleared and improved a farm on which they lived and died 
(see sketch of N. S. Olin). Our subject came to Streetsboro, this county, with 
his parents, with whom he remained until he was twenty-three years of age, 
when he located on the farm now owned and occupied by his brother Elon, 
where he resided three years. He then settled on the farm where he now lives, 
most of which he has cleared and improved himself. He was married, Octo- 
ber 12, 1812, to Almira B., daughter of Solomon and Hannah (Brown) Squiers, 
of Perry, N. Y., by whom he has four children living: James, Arthur S., John 
and Frank, all married; and there are seven grand-children. Mr. Olin is a repre- 
sentative of one of the leading pioneers of Streetsboro Township, his father 
having at one time owned over 900 aci'es of land here and in Franklin Town- 
ship, most of which was divided and now owned by his descendants. Mr. 
Olin ill politics is a Democrat. 



892 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : / 

NATHANIEL S. OLIN, farmer, P. O. Streetsborough, was born in Perry, 
Wyoming Co., N. Y., December 28, 1838; son of Samuel and Mercy (Seymour) 
Olin, who settled in Streetsboro March. 11, 1839, locating on the farm now 
occupied bj* our subject, which they cleared and improved, and where they 
lived and died. Samuel Olin was a native of Vermont, and a son of Ezra 
Olin, late of Perry, N. Y. He was twice married, having by his first wife, 
Betsey Green, eight children: Silas (deceased); Sophia (deceased); Alonzo; 
Sarah (deceased); Elon; Bethania (deceased); Ezra (deceased); Betsey A., wife 
of Thomas Price. His second wife was Mercy Seymour, of Genesee County, 
N. Y., who bore him seven children: Emily L., wife of Dow Pease; Seymour 
(deceased); Nathaniel S.; Adelaide, wife of C. R. Doolittle; Martha (deceased); 
Mary (deceased) and Samuel. The subject of this sketch was reared in Streets- 
boro and educated in the common schools. He was married, December 18, 
1861, to Augusta, daughter of Albert and Alamanda (Burroughs) Doolittle, of 
Streetsboro, by whom he has one child — Albert D. For the past fifteen years 
Mr. Olin has been a breeder of Shorthorn Durham cattle, and now has a fine 
herd of twenty-five, all registered in the American Herd Book. At the Ohio 
State Fair, in 1884, with an entry of five head, he took three first- class premi- 
ums, competing with over 200 head of cattle on exhibition from Ohio and other 
States. He has been President of the Portage County Agricultural Society 
four years; is a member of the Horticultural Society; the P. of H., and is a F. 
& A. M. He has held several of the minor township offices. In politics he is 
a Democrat. Mr. and Mrs. Olin are members of the Universalist Church. 

ENOS PAGE, farmer, P. O. Streetsborough, was born in Wallingford, 
Conn., August 3, 1806, a son of Isaac and Ruth (Rice) Page. He was reared iu 
his native town and settled in 1830 on the farm in Streetsboro where he now 
resides, which he cleared and improved, and for which he paid $2 per acre. 
It was then an unbroken wilderness, and his nearest neighbor was Mr. Hol- 
comb, who resided on the farm now owned by C. S. Hannum. Our subject 
was married November 8, 1832, to Cinderella, daughter of Joseph C. and 
Rosetta (Griswold) Baldwin, of Atwater Township, this county, by whom there 
were five children: Sidney, deceased; Eli; Mary, wife of Jefferson Mellen; 
Slyvanus, deceased, and Alfred. Mr. Page is one of the few pioneers still 
living in Streetsboro, and is one of its representative citizens. He and his 
wife are members of the Baptist Church, with which they have been connected 
about fifty years. In politics he is a Republican. 

LEWIS C. PATTERSON, farmer, P. O. Streetsborough, was born August 
21, 1831, in Streetsboro, this county, son of Ira and Jane (Crawford) Patterson, 
who reared a family of seven children: Charlotte, wife of Stephen Lekens; 
Lewis C. ; Oscar D. ; Emerancy; Mary J., wife of M. Ladu; Crawford and 
Henrietta, latter wife of Harry Ellis. Ira Patterson settled in Streetsboro, 
this county, about 1829, and assisted in clearing and improving several farms. 
Our subject's maternal grandfather, David Crawford, was among the first set- 
tlers of Tallmadge, Summit Co., Ohio, but afterward settled in Streetsboro on 
the farm now occupied by our subject, which he cleared and improved, and 
where he lived and died. Lewis C. Patterson has always resided in his native 
township, and followed farming as an occupation. He was married June 30, 
1853, to Fanny C, daughter of Elisba and Fanny Rogers, of western New 
York, by whom he has two children: Scott F. and George L. Mr. Patterson 
is one of the leading farmers here. In politics he is a Republican. 

ELI PECK, farmer, P. O. Streetsborough, was born in Newtown, Fairfield 
Co., Conn., February 13, 1808, and is a son of Rufus and Sally (Hall) Peck, 
who settled in Streetsboro Township, this county, coming here in 1836, with 



STREETSBORO TOWNSHIP. 893 

a family of five children and two grandchildren, in a two-horse wagon. They 
were twenty- one days on the road, starting October 14, 1836, and arriving in 
Hudson November 4 following. Kufus Peck settled on Lot 81, in Streetsboro 
Township, a part of which he cleared and improved. They were the parents 
of twelve children: Chloe (deceased), Lyman (deceased), William, John, Eli, 
Paulina (deceased), Clara, Sarah A. (deceased), Russell, Henry (deceased), 
Nathan (deceased) and Horace. Our subject was married April 27, 1840, to 
Eliza, daughter of Hezekiah and Mary (Buell) Judd, of Berkshire County, 
Mass., by whom he has had four children: Buell J. (deceased), Julia (deceased), 
Cyrus (deceased) and Charles E. Of these, Julia married James J. Osgood, 
and at her death left three children: Charles B., William W. and Elliott I. 
Charles E. married Lizzie Davidson, of Pennsylvania (have two children: James 
E. and Fred T. ) Mr. Peck first settled on Lot 82. and has lived on his pres- 
ent farm since 1856. He has held several minor ofl&ces in the township. In 
politics he is a Republican. 

NORMAN D. PECK, merchant, Streetsboro, was born June 14, 1843, in 
Streetsboro, this county, a son of Henry and Julia E. (Jenkins) Peck, former 
a native of Connecticut, and a tailor by trade, a son of Rufus and Sally (Hall) 
Peck, who settled in Streetsboro in 1837, here worked at his trade for several 
years, after which he engaged in farming and dairying, and became also a 
producer and buyer of cheese. Henry Peck was married January 1, 1840, to 
Julia E. , daughter of Samuel and Ursula (Brewster) Jenkins, former of whom 
was a native of Fort Ann, Washington Co., N. Y., and a son of Abiat Jen- 
kins, formerly of Providence, R. L, and a soldier in the Revolutionary war, 
the latter was born in Middletown, Vt., a daughter of Oramel Brewster. To 
the union of Henry and Julia E. Peck were born seven children: Sophia E., 
wife of Henry M. Lane; Norman D. ; Arthur H., deceased; Helen M., wife of 
W. L. Case; Effie. wife of H. A. Doolittle; Elsie N., wife of Charles E. 
Kent, and Cora E. In 1860 the father embarked in mercantile business in 
Streetsboro, with John C. Parsons, Esq., who was associated with him for a 
time, but subsequently retiring, Mr. Peck continued the business alone for sev- 
eral years, when his sons were taken into partnership, under firm name of H. 
Peck & Sons. Our subject was reared and educated in the common schools of 
Streetsboro, and also attended the Eastman Business College at Poughkeepsie, 
N. Y. He has been twice married, on first occasion October 21, 1869, to Alice, 
daughter of Frederick and Melissa (Wait) Plum, of Streetsboro, and by her 
he had one child — Harry D. On 30th January, 1876, our subject married his 
present wife, Eva M. , daughter of Daniel and E. M. (Cox) Ross, of Boston, 
Mass., by whom he has two children: Arthur N. and Raymond H. Mr. Peck 
is the leading merchant of Streetsboro, keeping a large and varied stock of 
goods, such as is usually found in a country store. He also manufactures but- 
ter and cheese, and has a dairy of 100 cows. He served as Township Treasurer 
four years and Justice of the Peace two terms ; has been Postmaster of Streets- 
boro eleven years. In politics he is a Republican. 

FREDERICK PLUM (deceased) was born December 16, 1802, in Chester, 
Mass., son of Comfort and Betsey (Black) Plum, who were parents of William, 
Fred, Alonzo, James, Albert, Henry, Alanson, Betsey, Louisa and Cordelia. 
His education was received in the country schools, and he began for himself 
working by the month. In 1821 he came to this county; was married April 
16, 1829, to Melissa Wait, who was born January 3, 1810, in Chester, Mass., 
daughter of Samuel and Betsey (Bell) Wait, who came to Ohio in 1827, settling 
in Aurora Township, and later in Streetsboro, where they died. Their children 
were Samuel, Sarah, Andrew, Mary, William, Orlinda, Malissa, Betsey, 

48 



894 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Edward, Delilah, Washington, Wellington and Ellen. The mother was a 
member of the Baptist Church. To Mr. and Mrs. Plum were born nine chil- 
dren, six of whom are now living: William, Leroy, Wilson, Lydia (now Mrs. 
C. Olds, in Michigan), Cornelia (now Mrs. George Blake) and Jane (now Mrs. 
Horace Russell). Our subject began life with but little, and at his death, 
October 12, 1883, he owned 110 acres well-improved land, besides other prop- 
erty, after giving his children a good start. Mr. Plum was a good citizen, 
well liked by his neighbors. In politics he was a Democrat. His worthy 
widow now lives on the old homestead, which is managed by her son Wilson. 
Out of respect for her deceased husband, Mrs. Plum has inserted a portrait of 
him in the history of Portage County. 

HART L. RISLEY, farmer, P. O. Streetsborough, was born on the farm 
where he now resides, in Streetsboro Township, this county, March 7, 1838, 
son of Nathaniel H. and Emily (Loomis) Risley, who were the parents of two 
children: Celinda (wife of Wesley Lewis) and Hart L. His paternal grand- 
father, Nathaniel Risley, was among the first to settle in the south part of 
Aurora Township, this county, where he cleared and improved the farm on 
which he lived and died. His children were Nathaniel H. (deceased), Julia 
A. (deceased), Emily E., Amanda M., Roxany L., Henrietta (deceased), Mary 
M. (deceased), Austin (deceased), Andress, Caroline A. (deceased), Freeman 
(deceased) and Susannah C. (deceased). Our subject was reared on and has 
always resided on the old homestead in Streetsboro Township, where his father 
first commenced. He has been twice married; on first occasion September 10, 
1866, to Adda, c'aughter of Josiah and Eliza Combs, of Streetsboro. The 
issue of this union was two children: Louie H. and Jay C. September 10, 
1879, Mr. Risley married his present wife, Minnie A., daughter of Rev. P. P. 
and Sarah (Grow) Kennedy, of Streetsboro. Mr. and Mrs. Risley are mem- 
bers of the Baptist Church. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. ; has served his 
township as Trustee one term. In politics he is a Democrat. 

WALLACE ROOT, farmer, P. O. Streetsborough, was born February 2, 
1830 in Streetsboro, this county, son of Alonzo and Susan (Streator) Root, 
parents of four children: G. Wellington, Wallace, Augusta (wife of J. F, Wing) 
and Alonzo D. His paternal grandfather, Benjamin Root, was a native of Ver- 
mont, and among the first settlers of Shalersville and later of Streetsboro, 
clearino- and improving farms in both townships. He removed to Kentucky in 
1850, and died there. His children were eight in number: Alonzo, Herod, 
Nelson, Obediah, Decalvous, Albert, Theresa and Worthington, who is the 
only one now surviving. Alonzo, the eldest, settled in Streetsboro, this 
county, about 1826, locating on the farm now owned by Henry Sawyer, which 
he cleared and improved, and in 1835 he settled on the farm now owned by 
our subject, which he also cleared, and where he lived until 1843, in which 
year he died aged forty- three. The maternal grandfather of our subject, Isaac 
H. Streator, settled here in 1826, being the third settler in Streetsboro, clear- 
ing and improving a farm. In 1849 he removed to Cleveland and died there. 
Wallace Root was reared in his native town and received a common school 
education. He was married November 13, 1851, to Lucy, daughter of Josiah 
and Eliza Combs, of Streetsboro, by whom he had four children, of whom but 
one is now living — Ernest C, married to Emma C, daughter of D. F. and 
Elizabeth McGrew, of this place, by whom he has two children: Wallace F. 
and Earl A. Mr. Root and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, in which he is Steward and Class Leader, and for upward of ten 
years he has been Superintendent of the Sabbath-school, in which he takes an 
active interest, being one of its earnest workers. He has served his township 



STREETSBORO TOWNSHIP. 895 

three terms as Justice of the Peace, also several terms as Trustee, which latter 
office he now holds. In politics he is a Democrat. 

LUTHEK RUSSELL (deceased) born November 9, 1801, in West Wind- 
sor, Conn., was descended from William Russell, who early emigrated from 
England. His father, Return Russell, was born in West Windsor, Conn., 
March 1, 1778. Hisraothex', Jerusha (Osborn) Russell, was born December 20, 
1780, in Connecticut. They left their Connecticut homeAvhen our subject was 
a child and settled in Rodman, Jefferson Co., N. Y. , whence they removed to 
Ohio in 1822. They soon joined the Shaker Society near Cleveland and here 
lived, died and were buried. Luther, the eldest of eleven children, remained 
in Rodman to settle up his father's business. The children were very fond of 
their father, who, physically, was large and well developed. He was genial, 
intelligent and agreeable. He died October 5, 1834. They also reverenced 
their gentle and loving mother, who died March 23, 1854, having lived a life 
of self-sacrifice. Of the members of the family who joined the Shakers only 
two remain with the Society, the other members of the family living in differ- 
ent States, excepting Mrs. Nelson Phillips, of Cleveland, and Samuel S. Rus- 
sell, of Mantua. The latter was born May 14, 1807, and September 15, 1840, 
he was chosen by the Shaker Society Presiding Elder, which position he filled 
satisfactorily until August 19, 1858, when he withdrew, leaving a prosperous 
membership of about 200. The interest he still maintains and the affection 
and confidence the Society has in him, are manifested by the many pressino- 
invitations to return. In 1867 he became a resident of Mantua, where he still 
survives, a worthy and respected citizen. His estimable wife died December 
26, 1883. In June. 1823, Luther Russell came to Ohio and March 13, 1828, 
he was married to Polly Russell, of Aurora Township, Portage Co. , Ohio, born 
March 25, 1806, in Chester, Mass., daughter of Samuel Russell, born January 
14, 1781, in West Windsor, Conn., and Hepsabeth (Ellsworth) Russell, born 
August 30, 1785. Her parents came to Aurora Township, this county, in 
1811, after a long and toilsome journey on foot, horseback and in cart, and 
they were soon settled and contented in their new home in the Western Reserve. 
Here they died, the father June 8, 1863, and the mother February 6, 1837. 
In 1830 Luiher, with his wife, located on a farm in Streetsboro Township, 
this county, where they lived, toiled and endured such hardships as befall the 
early settlers of a new country, and in after years they took pleasure in relat- 
ing to their children many incidents of pioneer life. In his early life our 
subject was deprived of elaborate educational advantages, but during his 
mature years he devoted considerable time to study. In politics he was a 
life -long Democrat, and took a deep interest in public affairs. In ] 845-46 he 
represented the county in the State Legislature. For many years he filled the 
office of Justice of the Peace, acceptably not only to his own political party, 
but to his entire township. In all his acts he aimed to be true to his convic- 
tions of truth and right. Not finding satisfaction in the orthodox faith, he 
espoused the cause of Spiritualism and was firm in the belief that this life 
would continue after death. Happy in this belief he died August 5, 1878, 
after an illness of fourteen months, during which he received the most devoted 
care at the hands of his family. His children were Martin L., born December 
29, 1829, died July 2, 1855; Cynthia M., born May 22, 1832, died December 
25, 1834; Sarah E.. born June 3, 1834; Marion B., born November 10, 1837, 
died January 18, 1879; Helen M., born November 16, 1841, married to John- 
son J. Sadler, both deceased, former November 28, 1881, latter May 19, 1882 
(their daughter Nellie Agnes, born September 24, 1874, now resides with her 
grandmother, the widow of Luther Russell). Chester N., son of Newell Rus- 



896 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

sell, was another orphan who found a home with Mr. Bussell. He was brought 
from Quincy, 111., April 28, 1864, at the age of nine years. His father served 
in the late war and at the death of the mother, Laura Lola and Charles H. 
were brought to the same happy home of their brother — Chester N. Laura 
Lola married Walter A. Folger, of Akron, Ohio. Her sister Agnes V. is now 
Mrs. J. H. Seaton, residing in Omaha, Neb., and her eldest brother, Frank P., 
is a physician in Suffield Township, this county. A portrait of Luther Russell 
will be found elsewhere in this volume. 

NATHAN SHAW, farmer, P. O. Kent, was born in Keene, Essex Co., N. 
Y., March 4, 1818, a son of Joseph and Polly (Wheeler) Shaw. He was reared 
in his native county, and in 1839 came to Rootstown, Portage Co., Ohio, where 
he worked by the month as a farm hand and taught school winters for several 
years. He was married January 23, 1845, to Almira, daughter of George and 
Laura (Dergy) Moulton, and grand-daughter of Judge Jeremiah Moulton, who 
settled in Brimtield Township, this county, in 1817. By this union there was 
one child — Selden W., who was married March 4, 1878, to Ellen, daughter of 
JohnD. and Mary (Ferry) Dewey, of Franklin Township, Portage Co., Ohio. 
In 1848 Mr. Shaw purchased a farm in the northwest part of Rootstown Town- 
ship, this county, which he cleared and improved, and where he resided up to 
1876, and then removed to the farm in Streetsboro Township, where he now 
resides. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he 
is a Democrat. 

JOHN C. SINGLETARY, farmer and attorney at law, Streetsboro, was 
born in Aurora Township, this county, December 19, 1810, son of John C. and 
Harriet (Powers) Singletary, former a native of Worcester, Mass., and latter 
of Middletown, Conn., and who were parents of live children: Anthony P., 
deceased; John C. ; Cyrus, deceased; Earl, deceased, and Charles, deceased. 
The parents settled and took up a farm of fifty acres in Aurora Township, this 
county, in 1808, which they cleared, improved and kept adding to until 1828, 
when they located in Streetsboro on the property now occupied by our subject, 
where they kept a public house for many years and at the same time engaged 
in farming. John C. Singletary, Sr. , was the first Postmaster at Streetsboro 
this county, an office he held for several years. He died in 1851 at the age of 
sixty-seven. Our subject was reared in his native township and educated in 
Western Reserve College at Hudson. He afterward studied law with his 
uncle, Gregory Powers, of Akron, Ohio, and was admitted to the bar at 
Columbus, Ohio, in 1835, though he has never practiced his profession to any 
extent. He was married August 11, 1845, to Mary Ann, daughter of Thomas 
and Elizabeth (Mills) Carter, natives of Ireland, who settled in Boston (now 
in Summit County) in 1824. By this union there were eight children: Cyrus C, 
deceased; Theodore, deceased; Zachary T., deceased; Harriet E.; Mary A.; 
Theodora (the last two mentioned are graduates of the W^estern Reserve Col- 
lege, and at present teaching in the high school at Denver, Colo.); Delia, 
deceased, and Kate F. Mr. Singletary located in Akron, Ohio, in 1835, and 
was elected the second and third Mayor of that city. The principal part of 
his life, however, has been spent in Streetsboro, this county, where he has 
been engaged in farming. In politics he is a Republican and Prohibitionist. 
In religion he and hie family are Methodists. 

MERRILL STANTON (deceased), was born in Hampden County, Mass., 
January 13, 1820, son of Asher and Lucy (Wait) Stanton, who settled on 
the farm now occupied by Mrs. M. Stanton in 1830, which they cleared and 
improved, and where they lived and died. Their children were nine in num- 
ber: Betsey, deceased; Harty, deceased; William; Delilah, deceased; Sally, 



STREETSBORO TOWNSHIP. 897 

deceased; Lucy, deceased; Julia, wife of Thomas Plum; Merrill, deceased, 
aud Christopher. Asher Stanton died June 21, 1868, aged eighty-nine years. 
Our subject's paternal grandfather, Abel Stanton, and his maternal grand- 
father, Jonathan Wait, were natives of Massachusetts, and settled in Aurora 
Township, this county, in 1830. Our subject came to Streetsboro, this county, 
with his parents when eleven years of age, and with the exception of ten years 
he resided in Solon, Cuyahoga Co., Ohio, always lived on the old home- 
stead in Streetsboro. He was married January 1, 18-46, to Amelia M. , daugh- 
ter of Reiiben and Corinne (Lewis) Avery, who settled in Aurora Township in 
1815. The issue of this union was three children: Emma F. (wife of Chaun- 
cey Taylor), Herbert M. and Arthur N. The maternal grandparent of Mrs. 
Stanton was Oliver Lewis, a native of Farmington, Conn., who settled in 
Mantua Township, this county, in 1813. He afterward removed to Ridgeville, 
Lorain Co. , Ohio, and died there. His wife was Lucinda North, and they 
reai'ed a family of eleven children. Reuben Avery, the father of Mrs. 
Stanton, died in Aurora May 23, 1873, at the advanced age of one hundred 
and one years. He retained his memory, other faculties and habits of indus- 
try until within three years of his death. Our subject was one of the thorough 
practical farmers of Streetsboro, and filled several of the minor offices in the 
gift of his township. In politics he was a Democrat. He died February 23, 
1881, in his sixty-second year. 

CHARLES STONE, farmer, P. O. Hudson, Summit County, was born in 
Hudson Township (now in Summit County), Ohio, January 25, 1812, son of 
Nathaniel and Sally (Hollenbeck) Stone, who were the parents of twelve chil- 
dren, six of whom are now living: Caroline, wife of Sydney Collar; Charles; 
Sydney J.; Helen, wife of George Bentley; Roswell and Orlando. Nathaniel 
Stone was a native of Connecticut, son of Jei'orae Stone, of that State. He 
settled in Hudson Township in 1810, and cleared and improved a farm, on 
which he resided (except when in the war of 1812) until 1832, when he removed 
to Streetsboro, locating on the farm which he also cleared and improved, and 
where he died in 1861 in his seventy-sixth year. The maternal grandfather 
of our subject, Samuel Hollenbeck, a native of Canaan, Conn., settled in Hud- 
son Township in 1810, and lived and died there. Charles Stone came to 
Streetsboro with his parents in 1832, and assisted his father in clearing the 
farm until twenty- five years of age, when the latter gave him sixty acres of 
land, on which he built a log-cabin on the site of his present residence. He 
was married April 18, 1837, to Sabrina, daughter of Moses Draper, who set- 
tled in Hudson Township in J 831. The issue of this union was seven chil- 
dren: Harriet, Frederick (who died serving his country during the war of 
the Rebellion), Salina (wife of Charles Cash), David, Moses, Lavonia 
(deceased), Clara (Mrs. Wesley Higley). Mr. Stone is a member of the Pio- 
neer Society. In politics he is a Republican. 

OSMAN THOMAS, retired farmer, P. O. Streetsborough, was born in Jeffer- 
son County, N. Y., February 9, 1809; son of John and Lois (Farr) Thomas, 
who settled in Streetsboro, this county, in 1829. They had eight children: 
Osman; David (deceased); Julia A., wife of Andrew Boyd; James; Maria P., 
deceased wife of IchabodBoyd; William F. ; Roswell and John W. (deceased). 
Our subject was twenty years of age when his parents settled a mile and a 
quarter west of Streetsboro Center, clearing and improving the farm, and on 
which he resided nntil 1850, when he removed to and resided for twenty years 
•on the farm now owned by N. B. Jenkins. He then went to Akron, but at the 
expiration of a year and a half returned to the old homestead in Streetsboro 
Township, which he still owns, remaining there until 1879, when he removed 



898 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

to Streetsboro Center, where he now resides. Mr. Thomas was married Jan- 
uary 11, 1S37, to Lois J., daughter of William Matthews, of Westtield, Mass., 
and by her he has had live children: Willard W., Juliette (wife of Dr. L. D. 
Stockon). Jefferson, Millicent (wife of George L. Andrews), and Delos 
(deceased;. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas are members of the Baptist Church, with 
which he has been connected fifty-one years, serving as Deacon for forty years. 
He has served the township as Justice of the Peace three terms, and has held 
other minor oiBces; in politics he is a Republican. 

JEFFERSON THOMAS, farmer, P. O. Streetsborough, was born July 4, 1842, 
in Sti-eeisboro, this county; and is a son of Osman and Lois J. (Matthews) 
Thomas. His paternal grandfather was John Tiiomas, one of the early set- 
tlers of Streetsboro. Our subject was reared in his native town, receiving his 
early education in the common schools, after which he attended a select school 
at Kent, Ohio, and Mt. Union College. He was in the late war of the Rebel- 
lion, enlisting November 4, 1861, in Company K, Sixth Ohio Cavalry, and 
participated in the battles of Cross Keys, Second Bull Run, followed Stone- 
wall Jackson from Cross Keys to Strasburg, and was in an engagement every 
other day. He received an honorable discharge, February, 1863, on account 
of disability. Mr. Thomas was married November 13, 1866, to Martha E., 
daughter of Eben and Mary (Green) Joy, of Trumbull Co., Ohio, by whom he 
has three children: Garrison O., Mary J. and an infant son. Mr. Thomas is 
a prominent farmer of Streetsboro; a member of the G. A. R. ; in politics a 
Republican. 

SAMUEL WAIT, Jr., farmer, P. O. Streetsborough, was born in Hampden 
County, Mass., September 21, 1816; son of Samuel and Rachel (Judd) Wait, 
who settled in Aurora Township, this county, in 1826, where they cleared and 
improved a farm on which they lived seven years, and then removed to the 
farm now owned and occupied by their son, Samuel, in Streetsboro Township, 
which they also cleared and improved, and where they lived and died. The 
paternal grandparents of our subject were Jonathan and Margaret (Smith) 
Wait, formerly of Hampden County, Mass., who settled in Aurora Township 
m 1829, and lived and died thei-e. His maternal grandfather, Reuben Judd, 
also of Hampden County, Mass., was an early settler of Streetsboro, this 
county, and his maternal grandmother was Rachel Smeed. Samuel Wait, 
Sr., was twice married, having by his first wife, Betsey Bell, three children: 
Melissa, wife of Frederick Plum; Betsey (deceased) and Samuel (deceased). 
By his second wife, Rachel Judd, he had eleven children: Samuel, Sarah (wife of 
Linus Smith), Andrew, Mary (deceased), William, Orlinda (deceased), Edward, 
Delilah (deceased), G. Washington, Wellington, and Ellen, wife of Harvey 
Ferris. Our subject was married April 22, 1855, to Maria, daughter of Will- 
iam and Fanny Welch, of Franklin Township, this county, and by her he has 
three childi-en: Elbert H., Estella, wife of Charles King, and Gertrude M. 
Mr. Wait is one of Streetsboro Township's representative farmers and citizens. 
In politics he is a Democrat. 

HENRY H. WILCOX, farmer, P. O. Streetsborough, was born January 1, 
1845, in Streetsboro, this county; son of Alanson and Sylvia (Lawrence) Wil- 
cox, and grandson of Benjamin Wilcox who came from Jefferson County, N. 
Y., to Streetsboro in 3832, and located on the farm now occupied by our sub- 
ject, which he cleared and improved, and where he lived and died. He had 
seven children: Wealthy, wife of Rufus Ellsworth; Julia, deceased wife of 
James W. Clark; Jeanette, wife of Alanson Plum; Betsey, wife of Daniel 
Tucker; Alanson (deceased); Newell and Frank. Alanson Wilcox, the father 
of our subject, was a carpenter by trade. He put up the Methodist Church at 



SUFFIELD TOWNSHIP. 899 

Streetsboro, besides many other buildings. He was married, February 2, 
1837, to Sylvia, daughter of Thomas and Susannah (Parker) Lawrence, who 
settled in Streetsboro in 1833. By this union there were two children: Har- 
riet E. (deceased) and Henry H. In 1837 Alanson Wilcox moved to the farm 
settled by his father, where he resided until his death. He died August 24, 
1862, at the age of fifty years. Our subject was reared on the old homestead 
where he has always resided. He was married, September 10, 1871, to Agnes, 
daughter of Henry and Louisa (Tucker) French, of Streetsboro, by whom he 
has three children: Millard D.. Artemas J. and John H. Mrs. Wilcox is a 
member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Wilcox has served his town- 
ship as Clerk and Trustee; in politics he is a Democrat. 



SUFFIEI.D TOWNSHIP. 



HORACE ADAMS, farmer, P. O. Mogadore, Summit County, was born in 
Suffield Township, this county, July 19, 1811; son of Moses Adams, who 
represented this district in the Legislature at the sessions of 1820-22. On 
December 8, 1842, our subject was married to Miss Lucy Richards and resided 
with his parents until their death. His mother died in October, 1844, andhis 
father in March, 1845. He removed to his present home, a productive farm of 
171 acres, in 1859, where Mrs. Adams died August 26, 1879. They were the 
parents of the following children: Martha Ann (Mrs. McKnight), Benton, 
Sarah (Mrs. Hildebrand), Albin, Emma, Maria Lucy and Clayton. Our sub- 
ject is an earnest Republican. He has served in several of the county offices, 
having been a member of the Board of Education twenty-nine years. County 
Commissioner, etc., and he discharged the trusts committed to his care with 
unswerving fidelity. 

HENRY AGNE, farmer, P. O. Suffield, was born in Jackson Township, 
Stark Co., Ohio, May 3, 1843; son of Philip and Elizabeth Ague, natives of 
Bavaria, Germany, who immigrated to America in 1833 and settled in Suffield 
Township, this county, in 1844. Their children are Catharine (Mrs. Myers), 
Elizabeth (Mrs. Moatz), Mary (Mrs. Goetz), Caroline (Mrs. Mohler) and Henry. 
Our subject, November 24, 1864, was married to Mary Jane Stamm, of Suf- 
field Township, this county, and by her has following children: Nelson Eugene, 
Clarence Sidney, Alverna May, Minnie Belle and Forest Earl, besides four 
who died in childhood. Mr. and Mrs. Agne now own the Stamm homestead, 
consisiing of 268 acres in Portage and Stark Counties, Ohio. Mr. Agne is a 
life- long Democrat; a representative citizen, and, with his wife, a member of 
the German Reformed Church. 

ANDREW AREHART, farmer, P. O. Mogadore. Summit County, was born 
December 17, 1831, in Rochester, N. Y.; son of Joseph Arehart, a native ^of 
Germany, who is still living. Our subject was married, November 3, 1858, 
to Lena Paulus, a native of France, where she was born, August 7, 1836, 
daughter of Anthony and Barbara Paulus, and has since resided with his wife 
in the home of his adoption in Suffield Township. To this union have been 
born six children: Louisa (Mrs. Memmer), George, Emma, Clara, Frank and 
Ida, all of whom received a substantial literary and musical education. Mr. 
and Mrs. Arehart have by their industry acquired a productive farm of ninety- 
seven acres; are consistent, pious members of the Roman Catholic Church. 



900 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Mr. Arehart is one of the leading citizens of the township, a man of worth 
and enterprise. 

JOHN AREHART, farmer, P. O. Mogadore, Summit Countj, was born 
January 19, 1840, in Suffield Township, this county; son of Joseph and Eve 
Arehart, natives of Rhenish Bavaria, Germany, who immigrated to America 
and settled in Suffield Township, this county, about 1832, where they went on 
an entirely new farm which they cleared and improved. Mrs. Arehart died 
August 15, 1856, leaving eight children: Mary Ann (Mrs. May); Andrew; 
Joseph, in Missouri; Cordelia (Mrs. Wehner) in Michigan; Barney, in Mich- 
igan; John; Elizabeth (Mrs. Spielmam) in Denver, Col., and Lawrence, in Mich- 
igan. Mr. Arehart is now living at the advanced age of eighty-two years. Our 
subject married, October 26, 1862, Miss Mary Ann XVilsou, and located where 
they now live in 1872. They are the parents of the following children: Meda, 
Charles E., Ella (deceased), William J. and Jessie May. Mr. Arehart has 
served his township as Trustee, discharging his duties faithfully and to the 
satisfaction of the people. Politically he has been a life-long Democrat. 

FREDERICK J. BAUER, physician and surgeon, Mogadore, Summit 
County, was born March 5, 1854, in Suffield Township, this county, where his 
father, Jacob Bauer, still resides. He early engaged in teaching, and acquired 
a good literary and scientific education at Mount Union College. In 1877 he 
entered into the study of medicine under Dr. Ferguson, subsequently attend- 
ing lectures at the Ohio Medical College, Cincinnati, and the University at 
Wooster, Cleveland, Ohio, where he graduated in 1880, and settleei down to 
practice with his former preceptor at Mogadore, Summit Co., Ohio, where he 
has built up a large and influential practice. He is a Democrat in politics. 

MICHAEL BLETZER, manufacturer, P. O. Suffield, born in Hesse-Darm- 
stadt, Germany, September 1, 1833, son of Philip Peter Bletzer, who died in 
1853. The same year his widow, accompanied by her family, emigrated to 
America, landing in this country May 5. Our subject at once located in Ran- 
dolph Township, this county, where he established a blacksmith shop in 
" Johnny Cake Hollow." On June 4, 1855, he was married to Miss Albertine 
Helwig, by whom he had thirteen children, four of whom survive: George 
Henry, Eva Harriet, Philip Hartmann and Emanuel Emil. On the night of 
March 26, 1867, the family residence was burned to the ground, and five of 
the children perished in the flames. After eleven years' residence in Ran- 
dolph, our subject removed to Suffield Township, where he established a wagon 
and blacksmith shop, and where he is known as a skillful mechanic. He and 
his wife are members of the German Reformed Church. Our subject's mother 
is residing with him, and is eighty-two years of age. Mr. Bletzer has been a 
sound Democrat all the davs of his life, and has never voted any other ticket. 

CONRAD L. BRUMBAUGH, farmer, P. O. Mishler, was born October 2, 
1842, in Randolph Townshij), this county; son of Henry and Catharine Brum- 
baugh, both now living. Our subject, April 23, 1868, married Miss Eliza 
Mishler, and they are the parents of five children: Jesse, Albert, Manno, Lydia 
and Delia. After residing four years in the eastern part of Suffield Township, 
and a few months in Randolph and Brimfield Townships, they settled on a 
farm of sixty-two acres, in 1873, where they have since made their home. They 
also own thirty acres in Stark County, Ohio, and a little homestead of ten acres 
one- fourth mile east of his present home. Our subject is a Democrat in pol- 
itics. He has served his constituency in the township as Trustee, School 
Director and Supervisor. He is an industrious and successful farmer, univer- 
sally respected. Mrs. Brumbaugh is a member of the German Baptist Con- 
gregation. 



SUFFIELD TOWNSHIP. 901 

MICHAEL CAHILL, farmer, F. O. Suffield, was born December 25, 1830, 
in County Kilkenny, Ireland; son of Patrick and Mary Cahill. He was edu- 
cated principally in his native county, and was married, in 1853, to Margaret 
Wilson, who died in 1860, leaving one son — Joseph P., who now resides in 
Illinois. Mr. Cahill when nineteen years of age went to the County of Dur- 
ham, England, and engaged in the coal mines there until 1855, when he met 
with an accident which resulted in the loss of his right leg below the knee. 
He emigrated to America in 1865, and engaged with Mr. Loomis, of Cuyahoga 
Falls, Ohio, to sell tin- ware, glass, etc., for him through the surrounding 
country. In 3867 he was again married, this time to Betsey E., widow of 
Harrison Way, and daughter of Robert Fenton, of SuflSeld Township, and 
they immediately settled where they now live at Suffield Center. Mr. Cahill is 
a man of wide range of information, which he has acquired by extensive 
reading. He is a close student of public affairs, and takes a deep interest in 
the welfare of his adopted country. He is a Democrat in politics and has 
served his township as Assessor and member of the Board of Education. He 
is now holding his fourth commission as Notary Public, and has done consid- 
erable local legal business in this community. 

JOEL COBURN, farmer, P. O. Suffield, was born August 28, 1825, in 
Brimtield Township, this county; son of David Coburn, of Mauson, Mass., 
and Nancy (Moulton) Coburn, of Brimtield Township. Of their eight chil- 
dren three are now living: Joel, Lucy Ann (Mrs. Meacham) and Martin V., 
all of this county. Our subject married, September 28, 1848, Diantha, daugh- 
ter of David Perkins, who became a resident of Springfield Township when 
thirteen years of age, and Electa (Tupper) Perkins. Seven children were 
born to them, four of whom are still living: Silas, Simon, Ellen (Mrs. Rog- 
ers) and Mrs. Coburn. Mr. and Mrs. Coburn are parents of the following 
children: Wilbur D., married to Lunetta A. Sabins, and Curtis E., who died 
February 27, 1879, aged twenty-five years. After a four years' residence in 
Brimfield Township our subject settled upon his farm of 161 acres in Suffield 
Township, where he has since resided. He has been a life-long Democrat; 
has served the township as Assessor and Trustee. Mrs. Coburn is a member 
of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

NATHAN COOK (deceased) was born in Suffield Township, this county, 
April 9, 1816, son of David Cook. On January 14, 1842, our subject was 
married to Miss Clarinda Hulbert, born November 16, 1816, daughter of 
Jamen and Lurinia Hulbert, natives of Vermont and Connecticut, respectively, 
and who accompanied their families at an early day in their trip from the East 
with ox-teams, and settled in Springfield Township, this county. Our subject 
and wife after their marriage located near Suffield Center, where they devel- 
oped their farm and raised a family of six children, viz. : David, in Michigan; 
Esther, Mrs. Brown; Marion, in Kansas; Newton; Jamen; and Eveline, Mrs. 
Shanafelt. Mr. Cook was a Republican in politics, a useful citizen and a 
worthy man. He died February 2, 1875. His widow still resides on the 
family homestead, respected by the community for her excellent qualities. 

LEE COOK, farmer, P. O. Suffield, was born November 11, 1821, in Suf- 
field, Township, this county, son of David and Chloe (Moore) Cook, who came 
to this county from Connecticut at a very early period in their lives, married 
and here remained until their death. The father died in February, 1859, the 
mother in 1879, aged ninety-one years. Their children were Mary (Mrs. Pot- 
zer). Nathan and John, all deceased; Lee, Galvin, Orange and Rachel (Mrs. 
Stahlsmith) still living. Our subject mari'ied Miss Phebe Buckmau, who 
died February 4, 1872, and he then married Margaret Ebel, born near Stras 



902 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

burg, France, December 11, 1831, daughter of John and Catharine Ebel, who 
settled in Suffield Township, this county, in 1833. where they were highly 
respected members of the Lutheran Church. They died many years ago. Mr. 
and Mrs. Cook are much esteemed by the community for their worth and intel- 
ligence. He owns a farm of 107 acres. In politics he is a Republican. Mrs. 
Cook is a member of the German Reformed Church. 

AVERY CROSS, retired farmer, P. O. Brimfield, was born at Wells, Rut- 
land Co., Vt. , April 4, 1800, son of Daniel and Hannah (Avery) Cross, whose 
seven brothers were present and participated in the battle of Bunker Hill. In 
1809 the father of our subject made a trip West, and the year following came 
to Ohio accompanied by his familj^, locating in Randolph Township, this 
county. He was one of the earliest carpenters in this part of the country. 
He and his son Samuel were frozen to death in January, 1812, while on their 
way to Harrisville, Medina Co., Ohio. Our subject adopted the carpenter's 
trade, and when sixteen years of age purchased fifty acres of land, which was 
the nucleus of his present farm of 210 acres in Suffield Township. He was 
twice married, first February 20, 1841, to Miss Hannah Frasier, of Richmond, 
Ohio, who died in 1845, leaving two children: Susanna (Mrs. Hubbard) and 
Nancy. His second wife, to whom he was married September 15, 1846, was 
Mrs. Mary Larkins, widow of John Larkins, and daughter of James and Mary 
Byers, who had two children by her first husband: Henrietta (Mrs. Smith, 
deceased), and James K. Mr. and Mrs. Cross were the parents of two chil- 
dren: Frances J. (deceased) and Lucy E. (Mrs. Potter). 

JACOB CABOT FERGUSON, physician, P. O. Mogadore, Summit County, 
was born August 7, 1819, in Suffield Township, this county, son of Samuel 
Ferguson, of Armstrong County, Penn. , who came to this county in 1815, and 
Rosanna (Reynolds) Ferguson, a native of Londonderry, Ireland, who settled 
in Springfield Township, in 1816. After living the lives of pioneers they 
died, leaving three children: Sarah (Mrs. Moore); Elizabeth (Mrs. Colvin), 
deceased, and Jacob Cabot. Our subject, having finished his education at Wads- 
worth Academy, became a teacher, and so continued for several years. He then 
began the study of medicine under Dr. M. Jewett, and after practicing at 
intervals in Uniontown, New Baltimore and Mogadore, Ohio, where he settled 
in 1852, he graduated at the Western Reserve College in 1858. On June 
18, 1844, he married Miss Mary Ward, of Randolph Township, who died 
January 7, 1863, mother of the following children: Rose (Mrs. Weimei', in 
Cincinnati); Kate (Mrs. Trenton); and George W. Our subject married for his 
second wife, March 8, 1864, Mrs. Margaret (Cochrane) Chamberlain, widow of 
James Chamberlain (her son, Capt. W. F. Chamberlain, is Postmaster at Han- 
nibal, Mo. ) Our subject is a Republican in politics. 

JOHN FRITCH, farmer, P. O. Suffield, was born in Suffield Township, 
this county, October 5, 1811, son of John and Mary Ann Fritch, natives of 
Berks County, Penn., who immigrated to Suffield Township, this county, in 
1805, with their three little girls, and settled at Fritch's Lake. They endured 
the hardships of pioneer life, and died leaving a family of eleven children, of 
whom John is the fifth. Our subject was twice married; on first occasion, 
March 2, 1843, to Mary Frank, a native of Stark County, Ohio, who died 
February 12, 1853, the mother of the following children: George W.; Lucy 
A., Mrs. Bickel, deceased; Rebecca, IMrs. Garl; Susanna, Mrs. Werstler; John 
H. and Mary Elizabeth, both deceased. On July 17, 1853, Mr. Fritch mar- 
ried Rebecca Frank, his deceased wife's sister, by whom he has had the follow- 
ing children: William B. ; Sarah, Mrs. McCloughan; Daniel; Caroline, Mrs. 
Weaver; AVilson; Mary Ellen and Caudas. For over thirty years Mr. Fritch 



SUFFIELD TOWNSHIP. ^03 

was a popular auctioneer in Portage and Summit Counties, Ohio He now 
owns a farm of 308 acres, including the beautiful lake known as Fntch s Lake. 
He and his wife are members of the Lutheran Church. Politically he is a 

Democrat. -i i- iqiq ;,t 

GEORGE FRITCH, farmer, P. O. Suffield, was born April lo, i»lrf, m 
Suffield Township, this county; son of John and Mary Fntch. He was 
broufrht up on his father's farm and attended the primitive schools of those 
early days He was married, November U, 1839, to Mary Rhodes, who was 
born Januarv U, 1821, in Germany, a daughter of Jacob Rhodes. By this 
union there are the following children: Jacob D., Henry, John (deceased), 
Lucinda and Catherine (now Mrs. Wegman). Our subject and wife settled 
where they now reside, after their marriage, and by industry and good manage- 
ment have acquired a fine farm of 229 acres of well-improved land. Mr. 
Fritch's father gave him 172 acres of land, in consideration of which our sub- 
iect paid his brother Jacob $34 per annum during his life and |loU to his 
brother Benjamin. Mrs. George Fritch received from her father, Jacob 
Rhodes, fif ty-tive acres of land. Mr. Fritch and his worthy wife are members 
of the Lutheran Church. He is an upright pioneer citizen, highly respected 
by the community in which he lives. He has ever been a Democrat m poll- 

tics. , T- 

JACOB GARL, farmer, P. O. Mogadore, Summit County, was born Janu- 
ary 17, 1815, in Stark County, Ohio; son of Reuben and Catharine (Uay) 
Garl, natives of Northamptom County, Penn., and early settlers of btark 
County. His grandfather, a native of Germany, was a teacher in Pennsylva- 
nia, and his father followed this profession in the same State and in Utiio. 
Our subject was married, February 21, 1833, to Miss Elizabeth Kreichbauna, 
who died in 1876, and he subsequently married Caroline, widow of John Cook, 
born in Mahoning County, this State, January 12, 1823, daughter of Joseph 
and Charlotte Hudson. Mr. Garl was fatherof the following children : George; 
William (deceased); Catherine (Mrs. Walter) now deceased; Sarah (Mrs^Kose); 
Mary (Mrs. Myers) deceased; Lydia (Mrs. Ague); Daniel, residing m Portage 
County, and Eli, in Kansas. Mr. Garl has a comfortable home comprising 
eighteen acres of land in Suffield Township, this county, besides eighty-two 
and a half in Summit County. He has given his children all a start in life. 
He is a member of the Lutheran Church and his wife of the Disciples denom- 
ination. In politics he is a Democrat. 

JACOB HIVELY, farmer, P. O. Suffield, was born January lo, 18^<J, m 
Stark County, Ohio; son of George and Polly Hively, who settled m Suffield 
Township, this county, where the father died. The mother subsequently moved 
West and died in Indiana. On December 8, 1842, our subject married Miss 
Anna Saxe, who bore him the following children: Willmm, Caroline (Mrs 
Powell), Jacob. Mrs. Hively died December 11, 18/9. In about 18o3 Mr. 
Hively settled where he now resides, a farm of 168^ acres, secured through 
industry and good management, and February 21, 1881 he was married to 
Miss Louisa Mellinger, born in Summit County, Ohio, April i, 18bl, daugh- 
ter of Levi and Catharine Mellinger, who settled in Brimtield Township, tins 
county. Our subject is a man respected by those who know him, a citizen ot 
integrity, of genial characteristics. In politics he is a Democrat. 

JOSIAH KENT, farmer, P. O. Mogadore, Summit County, was born May 
16, 1811, on the farm which he now occupies in Suffield Township, this county; 
son of Martin and Abigail (Hale) Kent, natives of Connecticut, who after liv- 
ino- nineteen years of their married life in New Hampshire, moved to this 
colntj and settled in Suffield Township in 1806. They came with a two-horse 



904 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

team and while crossing Conneaut Creek the ferry-boat sunk and it was with 
diffioalty that they saved their goods. Martin Kent was thrown into a fever 
through the exposure, which compelled him to remain in Cleveland several 
weeks while the family came on and settled on a new farm which they bought 
of Royal Pease. They built the first frame house in the township, which is 
still in use by the family, and brought up the following six children: Martin, 
Jr. (deceased); James (deceased); Almira (Mrs. Andrews) deceased; Eliza (Mrs. 
Greene) deceased; Abigail (deceased), and Josiah. The parents have long 
since passed to their reward. They were members of the Presbyterian Church 
and enjoyed the esteem of all who knew them. Our subject married, Decem- 
ber 1, 1836, Miss Lucia T. Miller, and has six children. 

JOHN C. KLINE, farmer, P. O. Suffield, was born July 31, 1837, in Suffield 
Township, this county; son of George and Elizabeth (Yager) Kline, natives of 
Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, who immigrated to America and were married at 
Canton, Ohio, immediately settling in Suffield Township, this county, where 
Mr. Kline died in August, 1872. His widow still lives in the township. Our 
subject, October 16, 1860, was married to Miss Gertrude Kemmery, who has 
borne him the following childrea: Katie, Barbara, Mary, George H., William 
B., John J. and Gertrude. Mr. Kline owns a farm of fifty-seven acres; a citi- 
zen of enterprise and integrity. He and his family are communicants of the 
Roman Catholic Church. 

ABRAHAM KURTZ, farmer, P. O. Lake, Stark Co., Ohio, was born June 
26, 1829, in Lebanon County, Penn., son of Jacob and Catharine Kurtz, 
former of whom died June 25, 1883, aged eighty- two years; they removed 
to this county in 1854, where they lived and died. They were the parents of 
Lydia. Mrs. Royer; Abraham; John; Elias; Mary, Mrs. Cai'ber; Jacob; Eliza- 
beth, Mrs. Bollinger, in Michigan; Samuel and Isaiah. Our subject was 
married, March 6, 1859, to Anna Mishler, and they settled on the old homestead 
farm, where they have since resided and have enlarged its dimensions to 182^^ 
acres. Mr. Kurtz is a leading and highly respected farmer. He and his wife 
are members of the German Baptist Church. 

NICHOLAS LULEY, manufacturer, P. O. Suffield, was born April 28, 
1854, in Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, and when seventeen years of age immi- 
grated to America, locating in Cleveland, Ohio, where he remained nine months, 
and then came to Ravenna. After a three years' residence in the latter city, fol- 
lowing his trade, that of a blacksmith, he removed to Fort Wayne, Ind., thence 
to Indianapolis, residing at both places an aggregate of ten months. He was 
married July 6, 1875, to Miss Elizabeth Dauber, of Ravenna Township, this 
county, and established himself in Bellevue, Ohio, where he remained two 
years, finally returning to this county, and settling in Suffield Township, car- 
rying on the blacksmith and wagon trade, a portion of the time as partner of 
John McLone. He now has an extensive establishment and conducts a large 
business, turning out about thirty vehicles annually. Mr. and Mrs. Luley are 
the parents of four children: Mary, Lizzie, Josephine and Clement. He is 
an accomplished mechanic, a Democrat in politics. He and his wife and fam- 
ily are members of the Catholic Church. 

EZRA LUTZ, farmer, P. O. Mogadore, Summit County, was born in 1835, 
in Lancaster County, Penn., son of Aaron and Elizabeth Lutz, who came to 
Suffield Township, this county, in 1839, where the former died in August, 
1876, aged seventy-two years. He was an old-line Whig, one of the first 
Republicans, and an upright man, leaving an honorable name to posterity. 
His widow still lives on the old homestead. Their children are Margaret (Mrs. 
Montz), Heury, Susanna (Mrs. Crouse), George, Elizabeth (Mrs. Mishler), 



SUFFIELD TOWNSHIP. 



905 



William, Maria (Mrs. Woodring), Nancy (Mrs. Eoudebush), Joseph and Ezra. 
Our subject, December 10, 1854, married Miss Elizabeth J. Ruble, born in Cen- 
ter County, Penn., September 29, 1836, daughter of John and Julia Ann 
Euble, and who was raised in Jo Daviess County, 111., where her parents 
resided temporarily, and to this union have been born following children: 
John A., Emma (Mrs. Robenstine), Isaac Warden, Lewis W., Henry Grant, 
Lizzie L., Cora J., Julia Ann, Sophia and Maud. Mr. and Mrs. Lutz have a 
well-improved farm of sixty-two acres. Mrs. Lutz is a member of the Ger- 
man Baptist Church. In politics he is a Republican. 

WILLIAM LUTZ, farmer, P. O. Mogadore, Summit County, was born in 
Suffield Township, this county, February 7, 1842, son of Aaron and Elizabeth 
Lutz. He was educated at the common schools of the district wherein his 
parents resided, and when eighteen years of age began learning the carpen- 
ter's trade. During the war he was in the Government employ, building 
bridges on the railroad between Nashville and Chattanooga, Tenn., and at its 
close returned home, where he settled down. Our subject was married Octo- 
ber 26, 1861, to Miss Catharine Wilson, of Suffield Township, this county, 
born February 10, 1844, daughter of Samuel Wilson, and by her he has had 
three children: Mrs. Meritta Alice Yerrick, in Trumbull County, Ohio; Arthur 
James, deceased; and Jennie Grace. Our subject hasbuiltmany of the houses 
and most of the improved barns in the vicinity of his home, and is esteemed 
a skilled and successful mechanic. He and his wife are members of the Ger- 
man Baptist Church. 

HUGH K. MARTIN, retired farmer, P. O. Mogadore, Summit County, 
was born January 17, 1803, in Jefferson County, Ohio, son of Thomas and 
Catharine Martin, natives of York County, Penn., whence they moved to Ohio. 
They lived a brief period in Jefferson County, then came to Trumbull County, 
where thev resided seven years, finally settling in Suffield Township, this 
county, in'lSlO. In the fall of 1812 they moved from their home on Congress 
Lake to the present family homestead, where tbey remained permanently and 
died at an advanced age. Our subject was married September 18, 1834, to 
Rosanna M. AYilliams, of Franklin Township, this county, taking up their 
residence at Mogadore, Summit County, where they remained fourteen years, 
and where he carried on a carding machine and saw-mill. Mrs. Martin came 
with her parents from East Granville, Mass, at the age of fourteen. In 1849 
our subject erected his present residence on the homestead farm, where they 
have since resided, and where, September 18, 1884, they celebrated their golden 
wedding. Upon the occasion of the latter event, the attendance numbered 
nearly 200, including W. E. Williams and daughter, Mrs. Dr. Gregg, and Miss 
Ada Reisin, a grand- daughter, all of Seneca County, N. Y., Mr. and Mrs. 
Samuel Williams, of Minnesota, Mr. and Mrs. Depew, Mr. and Mrs. A. B. 
Wirt, Thomas Martin, and James G. Williams, of Michigan, in addition to 
neighbors and friends. Mr. and Mrs. Martin have raised a family of five chil- 
dren: Calista (Mrs. Wirt), in Van Buren County, Mich.; Amanda (Mrs. Stuts- 
man), Almeda (Mrs. Creque), Melissa (Mrs. Price), all in Akron and Marshall, 
Ohio. Our subject is a Democrat in politics. He has served twelve years as 
Justice of the Peace; a man of influence and a valuable citizen. His son, 
Marshall O., living at the family homestead, is now serving his third term as 
Justice of the Peace. 

LAWRENCE MEMMER, farmer, P. O. Suffield, was born October 15,1829, 

in Rhine-Bavaria, Germany; son of David and Margaret (Arehart) Memmer. 

The family came to America in 1836, and remained in New York until the 

spring of 1838, when they moved to and settled in this township and county, 



906 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

where the parents died. Mr. and Mrs. David Memmer were parents of the fol- 
lowing children: George (deceased), Joseph (deceased), John (of Akron), Law- 
rence, Margaret (Mrs. Gulp), Mary Ann (Mrs. Schulty), Barbara (Mrs. Miller), 
and Maria (Mrs. Miller). Our subject married, September 29, 1855, Rebecca 
Wise, born in Stark County September 21, 1832, daughter of Jacob Wise, and 
by this union there are the following children: John Allen, Sarah (Mrs. Mil- 
ler), Charles Edward and Joseph Franklin. Mr. and Mrs. Memmer settled on 
their present farm, consisting of eighty-four and a half acres, in 1865. Mr. 
Memmer is a Democrat in politics. He has taken a deep interest in the pub- 
lic affairs of the township. He was elected Township Treasurer in April, 
1882, re-elected in 1883 and 1884, and fulfills his duties faithfully and to the 
satisfaction of the people. 

JOSEPH ailSHLER, farmer, P. O. Mishler, was born in Lancaster 
County, Penn., November 11, 1811; son of Samuel and Elizabeth Mishler, 
who came to Ohio in 1833, settling in Springfield Township, where they passed 
the remainder of their lives. In December, 1838, oiu' subject married Magda- 
lene Garl, born May 4, 1817, daughter of Reuben Garl. They are parents of 
the following children: Isaac; Jacob G., born December 9, 1843, married De- 
cember 13, 1868, Mrs. Fianah Schrantz, born July 6, 1846, daughter of Jacob 
and Maria Martin, by whom he has one child — Ellen (Jacob G. was ordained a 
minister of the Gospel in 1880); Benjamin; Elizabeth (Mrs.Way); Eliza (Mrs. 
Brumbaugh); Kate (Mrs. Richard) and Joseph, besides five who died in child- 
hood. After residing six years in Springfield Township our subject with his 
family settled where they have since lived on a farm of ninety acres in Suffield 
Township. Mr. and Mrs. Mishler are members of the German Baptist Church, 
respected by all who know them. 

BENJAMIN MISHLER, farmer, P. O. Mishler, was born in Suffield 
Township, this county, August 27, 1845; son of Joseph and Molly Mishler. 
He was brought up on his father's farm and received his education at the 
schools of the home district. He married, February 28, 1869, Nancy Young, 
born September 9, 1851, in Springfield Township, Summit County, daughter 
of David and Catharine Young, by whom he has one son — Samuel. After 
residing with the family of Mr. Young for six years, they removed to their 
present home. Mr. Mishler is an industrious toiler in the ways of life, a 
respectable citizen and an honorable man. He and his wife are members of 
the German Baptist Church. 

ANSON MOITLTON, retired farmer, P. O. Suffield, born December 7,1800, 
in Hampden County, Mass:; son of Jeremiah and Martha Moulton, also natives 
of Massacausetts, who came to and settled in Brimtield Township, this county, 
in 1817. The father of our subject served two terms as Associate Judge, was 
active in township affairs and attended largely to the settlement cf decedents' 
estates. Mrs. Moulton died in 1846, and Mr. Moulton then again married. He 
died at the age of seventy-two years. Our subject married, August 31, 1820, 
Daphne Minard and they are the parents of the following children: Anna 
(Mrs. Wilson), in Rockford, 111. ; Jeremiah C, in Mogadore, Summit County; 
Myron (deceased); Carlista (Mrs. Russ), deceased; Charles; Sarah (Mrs. Will- 
iams); Calvin H., in Lead City, D. T.; Harmon Benton; Lydia (deceased); 
Bierce, in Kansas; Almon; Wilson, who was a soldier in the Twenty- seventh 
Regiment, Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and died at Murfreesboro, Tenn., in May, 
1863; Perry, who was a member of theBrough Guards and was drowned at the 
sinking of the steamer "Sultana" in the Mississippi River, April 27, 1865, and 
Cordelia (deceased). Mr. Moulton resided in Brimfield Township until April, 
1864, when he removed to his farm of ninety-five acres in Suffield Township, 



SUFFIELD TOWNSHIP. 907 

where he now resides with his son Almon. The latter married Miss Kate 
Crine and has two children: Elmer and Walter. Our subject has always been 
a Democrat; has served the township in a public capacity repeatedly, and is a 
man above reproach. 

WILLIAM PAULUS, retired farmer and Justice of the Peace, P. O. Suf- 
tjeld, was born March 16, 1825, in Stark County, Ohio; son of David and 
Catharine Paulus, natives of Pennsylvania, and early pioneers of Stark 
County, and who removed to SuflQeld Township in 1839, where they died at the 
advanced age respectively of eighty-three and seventy-one years. When six- 
teen years of age our subject left home and removed to Stark County, where 
he learned the blacksmith trade, and where, March 1, 1846, he married 
Rebecca Brouse, by whom he has had the following children: Urias, a mem- 
ber of the One Hundred and Eighty-fourth Kegiment, Ohio Volunteer 
Infantry, who died at Nashville, Tenn., June 29, 1865; Mary E. (Mrs. Seth- 
man); Isaac; James B.; Jane (]Mi-s. Neubauer); Jefiferson and Catharine (Mrs. 
Schwartz). After his marriage Mr. Paulus settled in Suffield Township, this 
county, and followed his trade for six years, which he was obliged to abandon 
on account of failing health. Upon his partial recovery from a prolonged ill- 
ness, he engaged in farming and also in contracting for the erection of build- 
ings. In 1849 he was elected Constable, serving nearly two terms. In 
August, 3851, he was elected Justice of the Peace and has held the position 
to this day, the longest continuous term of service in the county. In 1852 he 
was elected Township Clerk, which office he served two terms. In 1869 he 
was elected Land Appraiser, and also in 1879. In addition to the above he 
held the position of Acting Manager of the Public Schools for several years. 
He now owns a farm of fifty acres in this township, one of seventy-eight acres 
in Stowe Township, Summit County, besides valuable town property. Politi- 
cally he is a Democrat. Mrs. Paulus is a consistent member of the Lutheran 
denomination. 

FRANKLIN P. RUSSELL., M. D., P. O. Suffield, was born October 29, 
1852, in Valparaiso, Ind., son of Newell Russell, a native of Aurora, this 
county, who married Miss Paulina Blakeslee, of Porter County, Ind. They 
removed to Iowa and remained until 1860, when they located at Quincy, 111. 
Mr. Russell served three years in the army, after which he engaged in mining 
in the Western Territories and died at Denver, Colo., November 5, 1874. His 
wife died at Quincy, 111., July 29, 1867. leaving the following children: F. P.; 
Chester N., in Streetsboro, this county, Ohio; Agnes V. (Mrs. Seaton), Omaha ;^ 
Lola L. (Mrs. Folger), of Akron, Ohio, and Charles Henry, of Streetsboro, 
Ohio. Our subject came to this county when fifteen years of age, and in 1877 
began the study of medicine under Dr. Belden, of Ravenna, taking the degree 
of M. D. at the University of Wooster, Cleveland, Ohio, in 1880. After 
practicing nearly two years in Streetsboro, this county, he, in December, 1881, 
located at Suffield, this county, where he has built up for himself a large and 
influential practice. On May 13, 1880, the Doctor married Miss Lillie E. 
Tucker, of Streetsboro, this county, and is the father of one daughter — Cora 
Leona. 

ISAAC SAUSAMAN, farmer, P. O. Suffield, was born June 8, J838, in 
Suffield Township, son of John and Catherine Sausaman, who came here from 
Union (now Snyder) County, Penn., in 1829. Our subject, who is the only 
one of their nine children remaining in Suffield Township, spent about three 
years in Indiana when a young man. September 5, 1865, he was married to 
Miss Sarah, daughter of Benjamin and Catherine Swinehart, and settled where 
they now reside. They have three children living: Daniel, Salome and Ben- 



908 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

jamin, and four — Louisa, Nathan, Zaida and Mabel Amelia — who died of 
diphtheria within the space of six days in November, 1881. Mr. and Mrs. 
Sausaman are highly respected for their integrity and upright character. He 
and his wife are members of the German Reformed Church. 

AMOS H. SAXE, farmer, P. O. Mogadore, Summit County, born Decem- 
ber 2, 1829, in Springfield, Summit Co., Ohio, son of Michael and Sarah Saxe, 
natives of Bucks County, Penn. , who lived a few years in Lancaster County, 
thence moved to Summit County, Ohio, iu 1820, where they remained about 
nine years, and finally settled in Sufiield Township, Portage Co., Ohio. This 
was then an entirely new country, and they had to contend with various diffi- 
culties in the wilderness. Game of all kinds was plentiful, and many were 
the adventures which these settlers experienced in their struggle for existence. 
Only a small place was cleared for a house, which was 16x16, the floor of 
which was made of split-logs, a blanket doing service for a door, and in this 
they managed to exist for several years, the family numbering nine when the 
house was first occupied. They were faithful members of the Disciples Church 
and regular attendants at church, having to walk two miles (oxen only being 
then employed). Michael Saxe was a tailor by trade, therefore the manage- 
ment of the farm fell upon the eldest son (Amos H. ), when but a boy. Mrs, 
Saxe was a kind and devoted mother; a peacemaker in her family of children, 
always ready to listen to their troubles and furnish some means of relief. She 
died January 16, 1868. Mr. Saxe died December 10, 1882, at the home of his 
son Amos H., aged eighty-two years. Of their family of twelve children, six 
are now living in this county, two in Suffield Township: Amos H. and John 
H. Amelia (Mrs. Harter), Jeremiah and Elizabeth are residents of Brimfield 
Township, and Jennie (Mrs. Shirtlefif), of Kent. Our subject was married 
May 11, 1865, to Amanda Harter, and they have the following children: 
Florence, Grace and Kay. Mrs. Saxe is a member of the Disciples Church. 
By industry they have acquired a fine farm of 165 acres of well-improved land. 
Mr. Saxe is a life-long Democrat; has served his township six years as Trustee 
and as School Director fifteen years. 

PETER SCHULZ, farmer, P. O. Suffield, was born February 15, 1826, in 
Hemsback, Baden, Germany, son of George and Margaret Schulz, who came to 
America August 9, 1843, settling at once in Randolph Township, this county. 
They were parents of the following children: Adam, Eve (now Mrs. Eberly) 
and Peter. George Schulz died about 1857; his widow followed him January 
5, 1874. Our subject was married March 15, 1852, to Catherine Shafer, by 
whom he has the following named children: Margaret, Emeline (now Mrs. 
Andrews) and three who died in childhood. Mr. Schulz lost this wife April 
20, 1862, and he subsequently married Mary Kaiser, a native of Wurtemberg, 
Germany. He settled where he now resides April 1, 1863, and here he has a 
fine farm comprising ninety-seven acres well-improved land. He is a man of 
integrity, much esteemed by the whole community. He and his wife and 
daughters are members of the German Baptist Church. 

ISAAC SLABAUGH, farmer, P. O. Suffield, was born March 15, 1830, in 
Columbiana County, Ohio, son of Christian and Nancy Slabaugh, natives of 
Lancaster County, Penn., who settled in Rootstown Township, Portage Co., 
Ohio, about 1835. Here Christian Slabaugh died about 1848. His widow sub- 
sequently moved to Elkhart County, Ind., where she remained until her death. 
Of their family of twelve children, Isaac is the fifth. Our subject was brought 
up on the farm and attended the limited schools of the home district. He 
early learned the brick-maker's trade, which he followed about eleven years, 
in Akron and the surrounding country, being four years foreman of a large 



SUFFIELD TOAVNSHIP. 909 

brick-yard in Akron. Ho was married JuJy 4, 1850, to Catherine, daughter of 
Samuel J. and Elizabeth Wise, of Stark County, Ohio. Their children are 
Lewis, Ella (now Mrs. Alexander, of Akron,) and Emma. In 1868 they 
settled where they now reside in Suffield Township, and here by industry have 
acquired a fine farm of 107 acres of well- improved land. Mr. and Mrs. 
Slabaugh are pioneer members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, to which 
they have belonged for twenty- five years. He is a stanch Republican; a suc- 
cessful farmer; an upright citizen respected by all who know him. 

HENRY SMYTH, farmer, P. O. Suffield, born September 29, 1806, in 
County Antrim, Ireland; son of James and Elizabeth Smyth, who lived in 
Scotland three years, soon after embarking for the New World. They came by 
way of Hudson's Bay up Nelson River and into the wild Red River country of 
Minnesota, landing there in 1812. Here they remained thi'ee years, then 
moved South, traveling by bark canoes through Lake Winnipeg, Lake of the 
Woods and Rainy Lake into Lake Superior, thence down the lakes to Cleve- 
land and located at Cuyahoga Falls. After ten years residence there they set- 
tled in Suffield Township, this county, in about 1828, where they died at an 
advanced age. One son, John, died in California in 1870, and their daughter, 
Mrs. Elizabeth Pendleton, died here about 1833. Henry, our subject, married 
Miss Mary Gilbert, of Summit County, Ohio, about 1830, and with her 
cleared up and developed their home, now consisting of 222 acres of finely 
improved land with excellent buildings thereon. Mrs. Smyth died in 1870. 
She was a believer in the Episcopal faith, a lady highly esteemed by all who 
knew her. Four of their sons, James, Ernest, Gilbert and Edward, enlisted 
during the war of the Rebellion, the latter being killed at the battle of Pitts- 
burg Landing. Their other children are Orrin, Lyman (in Dakota), fi'rank (in 
Illinois), Mary (Mrs. Spencer, in Iowa), and Ella (Mrs. Hale, in Mogadore, 
Summit Co., Ohio). Mr. Smyth is living on the homestead, enjoying the 
comforts of a quiet old age. Beginning with Gen. Jackson he has supported 
the Democratic party ever since. 

HORACE ADELBERT TICKNOR, farmer, P. O. Mogadore, Summit 
County, born in Suffield Township, this county, February 9, 1845; son of J. 
Wooster Ticknor (a native of Sharon, Conn., who came with his parents hither 
in 1812) and Rachel (McCarty) Ticknor (who moved here from Columbia, 
Penn., in 1822). They lived the lives of pioneers and raised a family of five 
children, three of whom survive: Horace Adelbert, Pulaski and Celestia. J. 
Wooster Ticknor died December 31, 1882, and is buried in Kent, Ohio. His 
widow resides with her two youngest children. Our subject in August, 1863, 
enlisted in the One Hundred and Fifteenth Regiment Ohio Volunteer 
Infantry, in which he served two years, in the Army of the Cumberland, 
where he made an honorable record as a brave and faithful soldier, receiving 
his discharge in November, 1865. July 2, 1874, he married Sarah Ann 
White, born March 10, 1848, in Stark County, Ohio, daughter of Timothy and 
Nancy (Moore) W^hite, who settled in Suffield Township, this county, in 1849, 
and where the father died November 4, 1854, leaving three children: Henry, 
Sarah Ann and Rachel (Mrs. Mishlei'). The mother is yet living. Mr. and 
Mrs. Ticknor have three children: Eva, Emma and Ella Pearl. They are now 
owners of the White estate, 149 acres of well-improved land. 

SOLOMON WAY, farmer, P. O. Suffield, was born August 3, 1817, in 
Suffield Township, this county; son of David and Rebecca (Baldwin) Way. 
natives of Connecticut, who came to this county by wagons in 1801, stopping 
one year in New York en route. After living the lives of upright pioneers 
and passing a few years of retired life both died in Springfield Township, 

49 



910 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Summit Co., Ohio. Our subject received his education in the common schools 
of those early days. He married Mrs. Hannah Potter, widow of Joseph Pot- 
ter, by whom he had three children: Luna (Mrs. Palmer), Thomas Jefferson 
and Melissa (Mrs. Thorp). Mrs. Way died in 1853, and Mr. Way then mar- 
ried Mrs. Rebecca Brittan. Their children are Clara (Mrs. Crist), B. F. (de- 
ceased), Almina (Mrs. Royei;), Andi-ew Jackson, Laura (Mrs. Potts) and Minnie 
(Mrs. Keister). Our subject has a farm of 113 acres, is an old and respected 
pioneer citizen, and enjoys the confidence and esteem of the entire community. 
In politics he is a Democrat. His wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. 

JOHN WEBER, farmer and horticulturist, P. O. SufiSeld, was born in 
Rhine Pfalz Byron, Germany, September 13, 1833, and immigrated to America in 
1854, where he married, October 28, 1856, Miss Margaret Wilhelm, also born 
in Germany, then a resident of Sufi6eld Township, this county, and who bore 
him the following children: Jacob, Mary, George, Adam. Frank, William, 
John, Albert, Katie, Frederick, Clara, Ellen and Charles. For a few years 
our subject resided in Tallmadge, Ohio, but finally settled in Suffield Town- 
ship, this county, where he now resides. He here has a farm of fifty acres 
highly cultivated and improved, containing a carp pond, and, in addition, in 
the township an orchard of 600 trees, a vineyard, and other first-class improve- 
ments. Mr. Weber does a large business supplying the markets of Akron, 
Ravenna and Kent with supplies of fruits and vegetables, and is a prosperous 
citizen. He is a Democrat in politics. 

SAMUEL WILSON, farmer, P. O. Mogadore, Summit County, was born 
September 2, 1812, in Columbiana County, Ohio; son of Charles Wilson, a 
native of London, England, who was apprenticed to a cloth di'esser, but ran 
away and immigrated to America at fifteen years of age. He married Elizabeth 
Shelton, of Maryland, and resided some years each in Maryland, Stark Co., 
Ohio (where he clerked for seven years with Gideon Hughes, of New Lisbon), 
and in Suffield Township, this county. The most of his life he followed the 
profession of a teacher. Our subject was married, November 3, 1836, to Miss 
Catherine Soldars, born October 4, 1818, in York County, Penn., but who 
immigrated to Ohio when six years of age with her widowed mother. Mr. and 
Mrs. Wilson, after living four years in the southern part of this township, 
settled where they now reside, and by industry and good management have 
acquired title to a fine farm of 100 acres of well-improved land. They are 
the parents of the following sons and daughters: John, Mrs. Hetty Lutz, Mrs. 
Mary Ann Arehart, Mrs. Catharine Lutz, Mrs. Angeline Upham, Aaron, James 
Elmer and Mrs. Lethy Ellen Lutz (twins). Mr. Wilson is a Democrat in poli- 
tics. He has served his township as Trustee three terms. 

DANIEL WISE (deceased), who was a native of Pennsylvania, settled in 
1812, at a very early age, with his parents, Henry and Elizabeth Wise, in 
Greentown, Stark Co., Ohio, where he was brought up, and where, in 1830, he 
married Miss Susanna Stripe, by whom he had the following children: Jere- 
miah, Abraham (has resided in Grand Rapids, Mich., since 1851), Mary (Mrs. 
Flickinger, in Stark County, Ohio), Henry, J. Wesley, William, Anna (Mrs. 
Hinman) and Sarah (deceased in 1862). The family moved to Suffield Town- 
ship, this county, in 1846, where our subject died in 1848, and where his 
widow brought up the children, keeping them together. In 1855 the family 
came to where they now reside, and where Mrs. Wise now, at an advanced age, 
enjoys the love of all who know her. She is a member of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church. Her son Henry and one of her daughters with her hus- 
band are living with her. 



WINDHAM TOWNSHIP. 911 

JOHN WESLEY WISE, farmer, P. O. Mogadore, Summit County, was 
born in Lake Township, Stark County, Ohio, November 10, 1838, and in 18^6 
settled with his parents, Daniel and Susanah (Stripe) Wise, in this township and 
county, where he learned the carpenter's trade. In September, 1861, he enlisted 
in the Twenty- ninth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and during the first 
two years served in the campaigns of Virginia. His regiment was then trans- 
ferred to the West and became part of the Army of the Cumberland. He 
passed through the noted battles of that region, and was wounded in the left 
shoulder at the battle of Kenesaw Mountain, Ga., June 17, 1864. The fol- 
lowing September he secured an honorable discharge and returned home, 
where he engaged in farming. On November 20, 1870, our subject was mar- 
ried to Miss Anna Shafer, and in 1875 they settled where they now reside, and 
own a farm of sixty acres. They are the parents of the following children: 
Wilkie Anson, Rosa J., Preston E., Daniel W., Chester Garfield and James 
Blaine. He is an enthusiastic Republican; himself and wife are members of 
the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

ANTHONY ZOLLER, manufacturer, Mogadore, Summit Co., born Novem- 
ber 24, 1847, in Rhenish Bavaria, Germany, son of Frank and Frances Zol- 
ler, who still reside at the place of our subject's nativity. He immigrated to 
America in 1866, locating at Akron, Ohio, where for seven years he was 
employed in the drug store of E. Steinbacher. On June 1, 1872, he was mar- 
ried to Mary Eckstein, of Akron, and one year later removed to Suffield Cen- 
ter, where, along with George Michael, he opened a general merchandise store, 
which, however, was burned within the succeeding ten months. Our subject 
then purchased and kept the Sufiield Hotel, also the hotel at Mogadore, Sum- 
mit County, which latter he still owns. In 1882 he secured an interest in the 
Eagle Block in Mogadore, and a year subsequent became owner of the clay 
works in the same place. Mr. Zoller is the father of three children: Frank, 
Joseph and Helen. He is a Democrat in politics; a member of the Knights 
of Pythias. 



WINDHA3I TOWNSHIP. 



ELIJAH ALFORD, farmer, P. O. Mahoning, was born April 23, 1829, in 
Windham Township, this county. His grandfather, Elijah Alford, was a 
prominent Deacon in the Presbyterian Church at Becket, Mass. , previous to 
coming to Windham Township, of which he became one of the original 
owners. Two of his sons, Elijah and Oliver, came here in March, 1811, to 
prepare a home for the family, who followed in July. He was parent of seven 
children: Elijah, Oliver, Levi, Ruth, Sally, Anna and Olive. Of these, Levi 
was born in Becket, Mass., April 14, 1789; married, April 6, 1814, to Edna E. 
Conant, born October 8, 1795, and who bore him eight children: Elizabeth O., 
Rebecca E., Louisa, Sidney L., Samuel N., Edward (consumed in a burning 
house, October 23, 1836), Elijah, our subject, and Durias M. Levi Alford 
was a farmer by occupation. He served as a private in the war of 1812, 
receiving a land grant for his services. He held many of the township offices 
of trust, and always took a prominent and liberal part in all public improve- 
ments. He was for many years a consistent member of church. He died Feb- 
ruary 12, 1869, his widow following him January 23, 1873. Our subject, like 



912 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : 

his father, has always been a farmer. During the late war of the Rebellion 
he enlisted in the 100 days' service in Company I, One Hundred and Seventy-first 
Ohio National Guards. Mr. Alford has been twice married, first in 1856, to 
Silence A. Brewster; on second occasion, October 12, 1865, to Harriet C. 
Snow, born October 1-1, 1836, in Windham Township, daughter of Milton and 
Clemena (Jagger) Snow, natives of Massachusetts, and early settlers of Wind- 
ham Township. Mr. Snow was a public-spirited, influential man, and filled 
the oflSces of Township Clerk and Justice of the Peace for many years. He 
died July 30, 1867. His widow is still living. Mr. and Mrs. Alford have 
three children: Estella S., Herbert J. and Arthur M. 

THOMAS O. ANGEL, farmer, P. O. Windham, was born in Hopewell, 
Ontaria Co., N. Y., November 25, 1835, son of Joseph and Cornelia (Arnold) 
Angel, natives of Rhode Island, who raised a family of four children: Thomas 
O., Elizabeth M., Abbie E. and Ephraim C, who died in 1859. Joseph Angel 
was born at Smithfield, R. I., May 15, 1805, and settled in Windham Town- 
ship, this county, February 2, 1837, where he became one of the most promi- 
nent farmers in the county and the promoter of all ventures designed to secure 
the advancement of religious and educational enterprises. He was a stanch 
Republican, though never a candidate for any office. For many years he was 
a member of the Congregational Church. He died December 26, 1872; his 
widow September 23, 1879. The early life of our subject was passed on the 
home farm, which he purchased of his father in 1860. During the late war 
of the Rebellion he was in the 100 days' service as a member of Company I, 
One Hundred and Seventy-first Ohio National Guards, participating in the 
battle of Kellar's Bridge, Ky. On November 8, 1865, he married Miss Mary 
Ann Strong, born in Cuyahoga County, Ohio, May 8, 1841 ; she died May 17, 
1869, the mother of two children: Joseph W. and Ernest S. Mr. Angel 
removed to Windham Center in 1869. In 1870 he was elected Justice of the 
Peace, a position he has filled, with the exception of about six months, for a 
period of twelve years; has been commissioned Notary Public for five years. 
He is a member of Earl-Milliken Post, No. 333, G. A. R.; a communicant of 
the Congregational Church. 

HEZEKIAH D. BALDWIN, farmer, P. O. Windham, was born in Wayne 
County, N. Y., July 2, 1829, son of Daniel and Nancy (Allen) ^Baldwin, 
former a native of New York, latter born in Massachusetts in 1805. They 
were parents of six children: Hezekiah, Mary A., Henry R., Edwin D., Laura 
C. and Cordelia S. Daniel Baldwin was a farmer and a local preacher. He 
went to Cuyahoga County, Ohio, in 1833, and became a very influential man, 
highly esteemed by the community in which he lived. He died in 1847, his 
widow in 1881. Our subject was married, September 27, 1854, to Miss Sarah 
J. Bradford, a resident of Ravenna, this county, born in Cuyahoga County, 
Ohio, September 27, 1834. By this union there are four childi-en: Linton 
D. ; Eva L., wife of R. D. Loomis; Addie H. and Willie G. Mr. Baldwin 
early in life entered upon his career as a farmer, and has always followed 
agricultural pursuits. He came to this county in 1856, locating in Charles- 
town Township, but in a few years moved to Ravenna, where he remained 
till 1869, when he came to his present farm, the appearance of which does 
not belie his reputation for being one of the practical and substantial farmers 
of Windham Township. Mr, and Mrs. Baldwin have for many years been 
identified with the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

HIRAM BINGHAM, retired minister, P. O. Windham, was born in Ver- 
mont, May 30, 1815, son of Jeremiah and Rhoda (Fenn) Bingham. At the 
age of seventeen our subject began clerking, but at the end of two years 



WINDHAM TOWNSHIP. 



918 



entered college at Middlebury, Vt., gi-aduating in 1839; thence he matricu- 
lated at the Andover Theological Seminary. In iSll he came ^y est, gradu- 
ating the following year at Lane Theological Seminary, Cincinnati, Ohio. 
While there he accepted a call from Red Oak Church, in Brown County, Ohio, 
where he remained for two years. The succeeding two years were spent at 
Portsmouth, Ohio, and the four years following as Professor of college at 
Marietta, Ohio. He was married, September, 1842, to Abigail Bushnell, born 
in Vermont October 14, 1815, daughter of Rev. J. Bushnell, who for thirty- 
three years was pastor of a church in Cornwall, Vt. In the spring of 1850 
Mr. Bino-ham came to Windham Township on a visit to an old teacher, and 
eventually became pastor of the Presbyterian Church here, but after live years 
he went South on account of ill health, and supplied the pulpit of the First 
Presbyterian Church at Augusta, Ga., during the winter of 1855-56. In the 
sprino- following he received a unanimous invitation from the session to stand 
as a candidate for the pastorship of the church, but deeming the charge too 
great for his state of health he declined. Mr. Bingham found the climate 
South favorable to his health, and was, therefore, strongly inclined to remain 
there, but judging from what he saw and heard among the people that a polit- 
ical r'evolution^was imminent, he returned North, and for the last twenty-nine 
years has resided at his former home, supplying vacant and feeble churches in 
the vicinity as he has had the opportunity. In the meantime he has taken 
much out-door exercise on his farm, which he has found not only highly con- 
ducive to his general health but also to a comfortable support. From the 
beginning of Ihe Republican party he has been known as a stanch Repub- 
lican, unfil of late having lost confidence in that party as a reform party, he has 
joined the Prohibition party, and is now known as a pronounced Prohibi- 
tionist. 

COL. M. A. BIRCHARD, farmer, P. O. Windham, was born January 31, 
1808, in Becket, Berkshire Co., Mass., son of Nathan and Marcy (Ashley) 
Birchard, the former born September 30, 1769, in Becket, Mass., and the lat- 
ter born July 22, 1766, in Westfield, Mass. They came to Windham Town- 
ship in 1812, and settled on the farm now owned by Aaron Castor, where they 
died, the father Septembers, 1889, and the mother Jane 1, 1835. They were 
original members of the first Presbyterian Church organized in Windham. 
They had a family of ten children, of whom our subject is the only one now 
living. M. A. Birchard attended the log-cabin schools of Windham a few 
months during the winters of his early boyhood days. He began for himself 
when twenty-one years old, and with an ax, which he purchased for |3, he 
soon felled the trees on parts of his present farm, where he has always lived 
since reaching majority. In 1834 he was married to Mary E. Cantield, daugh- 
ter of Amasa^and Nancy (Randall) Canfield, and by her had one son— Edward 
L. (deceased in 1878, five years subsequent to the demise of his mother). Mr. 
Birchard was married, a second time, to Lois A. Richards, daughter of Mills 
and Aurelia (Humphrey) Richards, natives of Connecticut and who settled in 
Medina County, Ohio, as early as 1828. By this union were born Emily E. 
and Mary A. 'in an early day Mr. Birchard was Colonel of a militia com- 
pany. In 1851 he was elected County Commissioner, and served three years. 
He has been Township Trustee and has held other minor offices. He cast his 
first Presidential vote for Gen. Jackson, and has clung closely to the Demo- 
cratic party since. Col. Birchard is well known and respected by all. The 
late Judge Mathew Birchard, of Warren, Trumbull Co., Ohio, was an elder 
brother of our subject. -.oco • 

MARK BIRCHARD, farmer, P. O. Windham, was born June 2b, 1852, m 
Windham Township, this county, son of Nathan A. and Eliza (Alford) 



914 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Birchard, eavly settlers of Windham Township. Our subject was reared on 
the farm and received a common school education. He was united in mar- 
riage, October 18, 1876, with Miss Lucy C. Chaffee, boi*n in AVindham Town- 
ship, this county, July 3, 1858, daughter of Wolcott Chaflfee. By this union 
there are two children: Chaffee AV, and Grace E. Mr. Birchard, who has 
always followed agricultural pursuits, keeps his farm well cultivated, and is 
destined to be one of the substantial men of his township. He filled the 
office of Constable of Windham Township with credit to himself and to the satis- 
faction of the people. 

WOLCOTT CHAFFEE, farmer, P. O. Garrettsville, was born in Becket, 
Mass., June 15, 1826, son of Newman K. and Elizabeth (Phelps) Chaffee, also 
natives of Becket, Mass., where the former was born in 1796, and the latter 
in 1800. They raised a family of five children: Ebenezer, Frederick, Wol- 
cott, Joseph[C. and*Elizabeth A. Newman K. Chaffee died in 1858; his wife 
April 30, 1826. Our subject was raised by an uncle, Wolcott Chaffee, after 
whom he was named, and who took him when an infant and brought him up 
as his own child. The uncle died November 22, 1870, and his widow, Abigail 
(Kingsley) Chaffee, June 8, 1882. Our subject came to this county in 
November, 1839, but at the expiration of a year and a half returned to his 
native town. In 1847 he came to Ravenna, Ohio, where he remained till 1851, 
when he came to Windham Township, and commenced farming, an occupation 
he has since followed. He was married, July 8, 1849, to Jennett A. Judd, 
born in Ravenna Township, this county. May 12, 1826, daughter of Howard 
and Ruthalia (Carter) Judd, natives of New Yox'k and Connecticut respect- 
ively. To this union were born three children: George N. . deceased; Alva 
B., and Lucy C, wife of M. E. Birchard. Mr, Chaffee organized Portage 
Lodge, No. 456, L O. O. F., July 25, 1870, and for four years has been Dis- 
trict Deputy Grand Master of Portage County, and is also a F. & A. M. In 
politics he is a stanch Republican. 

GEORGE B. CONANT, of Windham, was born October 12, 1825, in 
Windham Township, this county. His father, Asa M. Conant, was born March 
16, 1800, in Becket, Berkshire Co., Mass., and his mother, Eunice H. (Bierce) 
Conant, was born January 22, 1801, in Connecticut, daughter of Philo Bierce, 
and who came to Windham Township, this county, when yoiang. The father 
came to Windham Township in 1811, with his parents, Thatcher and Elizabeth 
(Manley) Conant, whose children were Susannah, Thatcher F., Edna, Mehita- 
bel, Asa M., Chloe, Rebecca, George E., Lydia M. and Angelina G. Our sub- 
ject's parents were married September 25, 1824, by Rev. Joseph Treat, and 
their children were nine in number: G. B., Philo B., Thatcher G., Nelson 
B., Amanda N., Frederick, Lucy, Henry and Edward. The father died Feb- 
ruary 22, 1846, and the mother May 7, 1878. Both were long connected with 
the Congregational Church. The subject of this sketch, George B. Conant, 
was educated in the district schools and academy of Windham. He began 
teaching at the age of eighteen years in Stark County, Ohio, and for some 
six or seven years thereafter a large part of the time was thus spent. He 
taught in Parkman, Ohio, and in different schools of his native township, and 
gained an honorable reputation as a teacher. The year 1851 Mr. Conant spent 
teaching near Perryville, Ky., the place more recently made celebrated as a 
battle-field. During the intervals of teaching he spent his time in selling car- 
riages for N. D. Clark & Co. , of Ravenna. Thus by his energy he made a very 
successful year in that State. In 1847 he was married to Maria E. Birchard, 
who was born September 2, 1827, daughter of Nathan A. and Betsey E. 
(Alford) Birchard, originally of Becket, Mass. To this union seven children 



WINDHAM TOWNSHIP. 915 

were born, three of whom lived to adult years: Lucy, married to Henry N. 
Donaldson, at present Train Master, Mahoning Division, New York, Pennsyl- 
vania & Ohio Railroad, and residincr at Girard, Ohio; Hattie C, married 
September 27, 1883, to Dr. Charles H. Dixon, of St. Louis, Mo. (she died 
March 12, 1885, and was laid to rest in Windham the Sabbath following); 
Gertie M. , the youngest, is at present a student at Oberlin. In 1856 Mr. 
Conant bought a farm in the west part of Windham, where he remained until 
1864. Here he evinced his characteristic ability to farm in an attractive man- 
ner. In 1864 he sold this farm and moved to Mineral Ridge, Ohio, where he 
remained until the spring of 1866, when he left that place and spent the sum- 
mer traveling on business in the West. In October of the same year he 
bought the old homestead of the Rev. Joseph Treat, the first pastor of the 
Congregational Church of Windham. Subseqiiently he has added to this 
farm until he has now over 100 acres all in good condition. Mr. Conant has 
repaired and enlarged the outbuildings, and built in 1882 an attractive and 
commodious farm-house, thus making a residence, situated as it is a little 
north of the center of the township, that ranks among the most desirable in 
the vicinity. Mr. and Mrs. Conant are active members of the Congregational 
Church and Sabbath-school, and to all projects to promote the welfare of 
society lend helping hands. In politics he has been steadfastly Republican, 
and for its interests has been an ardent worker. He has held the oflSce of 
Justice of the Peace for two terms, as well as other official positions from time 
to time. Having by his own energy placed himself in his present desirable 
surroundings, it is but just to say that he is entitled to much credit and to be 
ranked among the most substantial men of the community. 

ELIZUR A. CURTISS, farmer. P. O. Windham, was born in Granville, 
Hampden Co., Mass., son of Samuel and Sally (Fairchild) Curtiss, natives 
of Massachusetts, and who were the parents of eleven children: Saxton, Mary 
F., Anson, James, Hannah, Orpha, Elizur A. and Eliza (twins), Lowell, Sarah 
and Alonzo. The father died in 1851, the mother in 1868. Our subject in 
early life was emj^loyed in assisting on the farm and attending the common 
schools, to which his educational privileges were limited. He entered on the 
battle of life as a farmer, an occupation he always followed. He was married 
April 19, 1854, to Laura Seymour, born in Massachusetts August 27, 1832, 
daughter of Deacon Ardon and Orpha (Collins) Seymour, of Massachusetts, 
By this union there were ten children: Frederick S., Eliza S., William F., 
Charles E. (deceased), Julia C, Herbert E., Alice S. (deceased), Fanny A. 
(deceased), Ellen M. and Charles S. Mr. Curtiss came to this county in 1858 
and located in Charlestown Township, where he remained two years, and then 
removed to his present place of residence in Windham Township. His farm 
is under a state of cultivation second to none in the township, and its appear- 
ance denotes its owner to be a practical farmer as well as an energetic and enter- 
prising man. During the war Mr. Curtiss was taken prisoner at Cynthiana, 
Ky., he having enlisted in Company I, One Hundred and Seventy-first Ohio 
National Guards. Politically he is identified with the Republican party. He 
and his wife are active members of the Congregational Church. 

IRA S. CUTTS, farmer, P. O. Windham, was born in Addison County, 
Vt., October 22, 1829, son of Daniel B. and Lucy (Smith) Cutte, natives of 
Vermont, the former of whom was born in 1804. They had a family of eight 
children: Mary, Ira S. , Henry (deceased), Sarah A,, Roswell B., Jane, Henry 
and Fanny. They came to this county in 1831 and located in Windhaiu 
Township, vvhere Mr. Cutts followed his trade, shoe-making, for many years, 
thence moved to Paris Township, where he eventually purchased a farm and 



916 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

for many years previous to his death followed agricultural pursuits. He was 
a cousistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and died in 1874, 
his wife having preceded him in 18(34. Our subject received a common school 
education and has always been a farmer. He was married in 1856 to Mary L. 
Russell, who died in 1871 and by whom he had one daughter — Perlea, wife of 
Charles Smith. Mr. Cutts next married Delia Russell, a sister of his first 
wife, and by her has a son — Daniel. Mr. Cutts is a man highly esteemed by 
the community in which he lives. He is very enterprising and energetic, and 
his property represents many hours of hard labor performed by his own hands. 

NATHAN D. DUNBAR^, Station Agent, Windham, was born in Bushkill, 
Pike Co., Penn., October 1, 1846, son of F. K. and Maria (Dewitt) Dunbar, 
who were parents of six children: Andy, Superintendent Eastern Division 
New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Railroad, at Meadville, Penn. ; Elizabeth, 
wife of George Van Tile, of Warren, Ohio; Katherine, Avife of Lewis Wright, 
of Oiean, N. Y. ; Nathan D., our subject; John D., Station Agent at Cochran- 
ton, Penn., and who has been engaged in railroad business for twenty years, 
and Armida, now living at Olean, N. Y. F. K. Dunbar (the father), a native 
of New York, is a retired tailor now residing in Warren, Ohio. His wife died 
in 1873. Our subject acquired a common school education and began life for 
himself in canal business, in which he continued till 1866, when he removed 
to Evansburg, Penn., and was employed by the Atlantic & Great Western 
Railway Company as telegraph operator. He soon after became Station Agent 
at Orangeville, Ohio, where he remained until 1872, when he accepted a like 
situation at Windham, which position he still retains, and, as agent, has 
gained the respect of the community by his business ability, and kind and 
obliging manners. In September, 1872, he married Miss Nettie Graves, who 
was born at Harbor Creek, Penn., in 1848, and by her he has five children: 
Delia, Imogene, Chauncey, Andy and Lorena. Mr. Dunbar has been for years 
a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he is a Republican. 

EBENEZER W. EARL (deceased) was born in Braceville, Ohio, Febru- 
ary 12, 1806, and came with his father's family to Windham, this county, in 
1814. There were then fourteen families in the township, of which there are 
now but eight persons living: Eli Case, R. M. Higley, Lorin Higley, M. P. 
Higley, Moses A. Birchard, Jesse Lyman, Mrs. Eliza Birchard and Mrs. 
Clemens Snow. Soon after coming to Windham a friendly plan was hit upon, 
by which Mr. Earl was engaged as mill boy for a neighborhood of young 
married people — JohnSeley, Hardin Seley, A. P. Jagger, John Streator— who 
settled a mile or so south of the Center, so that they could clear up their farms 
without the delay incident to such necessary work. Mr. Earl's father and 
some others made it necessary that two or three trips a week should be made, 
as there were no roads opened, and only a bridlepath with blazed trees to 
guide the horseman. Two bushels of grain was a full load in those days, and 
Mr. Jagger owned the only horse in the syndicate. The most frequented road 
to Garrettsville led across the Rudd farm and very often a delay at the mill 
would necessitate young Earl's starting home w^hen near dark, and when it 
would be almost impossible to keep the path. Many a time the howling of 
wolves in every direction would announce their fearful proximity to the path 
he was following. Hunger and danger were mighty strong powers for a lad 
of twelve years to contend with, and sorely it taxed the youthful energies of 
our hero many times to the utmost limit of endurance, as he toiled along his 
forest path in these labors of kindness during the four or five years of this 
service. On one occasion he made a trip to Barnum's mill in Braceville, and 
a severe thunder shower prevented his starting for home until sundown. As 



WINDHAM TOWNSHIP. 917 

he emerged from the woods to cross Eagle Creek Bridge, east of William 
Moore' s present farm, tlie darkness was complete, and some fox-fire on a stump 
in the State road frightened him greatly, as he imagined it to be the glisten 
of a bear's eyes or some more furious animal. It was 11 o'clock when he 
reached home, and found all the family a-bed and asleep. On another occasion 
Mr. Earl made a trip to New Falls with a horse that was extremely ugly and 
vicious and a blow from a whip would cause him to rear and kick with such 
violence as to pitch both boy and grist clean off his back on short notice. 
Young Earl found the mill so crowded with grists, that he was unable to stai't 
for home until late in the day, and at his arrival at Mr. Brooks' place, with a 
long swampy mudhole ahead, the horse refused to go any further. After every 
plan he could think of had been tried to make the animal proceed, the boy 
reluctantly took his back track to the mill and stayed with Ben Yale, who then 
ran the mill at night. In the morning on reaching the same place the horse 
refused to proceed, and neither leading nor coaxing would induce him to 
advance a step. In this dilemma Mr. Brooks saw the boy and came to his 
relief with a whip, which he applied so vigorously that the kicking up " racket " 
was suspended, and a rapid advance made for home. Chopping was a favorite 
employment with Mr. Earl in those days, forty or sixty acres in one job being 
not uncommon, and he would slash down an acre in a day by the windrow 
style of felling a long line of trees across a " bush " by cutting them half or 
two-thirds through and directing the course of each so that the first tree of the 
line would fall against the second, the second against the third and so on until 
the roar and crash of falling timber for fifty or one hundred rods would bear 
comparison with a first-class cyclone of modern times. Splitting rails was 
another work in which IVIr. Earl excelled, and he could split from 400 to 600 
per day. The ordinary price for this kind of work was then 12|^ cents per 
100. January 20, 1852, he left his home and started for New York with money 
to purchase eight tickets for California via the Panama route, and these were 
procured for $300. The company left in a few days for Chagres, Panama, 
and finding no boat on the Pacific side connected with the line they went by, 
they had to remain there eighteen days and were finally obliged to sue the 
purser of the boat they came on, whereby they received nearly enough returns 
to purchase tickets from there to San Francisco on an old sailing vessel; $252.50 
secured their tickets and paid hospital fee at Chagres. They had a long, 
dreary voyage of sixty-five days, during which time they saw land only once 
and but one sail. A number of the passengers died on the passage, one of 
whom was Barnus Ives, of Nelson, this county. On arrival at May vi lie they 
were obliged to walk seventy-five miles to the mines. The following December 
deep snow stopped the mule train, which carried the supplies a distance of 
thirty miles, and all their provisions had to be carried by men. The scarcity 
brought flour up to $2 per pound, but Mr. Earl managed to secure from the 
three bakeries twenty-five one-pound loaves for fifty cents each, and thus 
escaped the higher prices that followed. He was successful in securing a 
considerable quantity of gold. May 26, 1884, he died. His widow is now 
residing on the old homestead. Mr. Earl was an active worker in the Sunday- 
school and was a devoted Christian. 

ORLANDO L. EARL, farmer, P. O. Windham, was born July 29, 1838, 
on the farm which is still his home. His father, James Earl, a native of 
Pennsylvania, a farmer by occupation, and a plastering mason by trade, was 
married to Elizabeth Higley, who bore him three children: Edwin D. (killed 
in the army), Amanda E. (deceased) and Orlando L. James Earl was a prom- 
inent man in his day, an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 



918 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

He died November 25, 1846. His widow, who still survives, was married in 
1879, to David P. Robinson, who died the same year. Our subject was edu- 
cated in the common schools and the academy of this county, and farming has 
been his life's avocation. During the late war of the Rebellion he enlisted in 
Company. A, Forty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served for three years, 
participating in the engagements at Port Gibson, siege of Vicksburg, Thompson's 
Hill and Black River. He was married October 11, 1865, to Jane E. Cutts, 
born April 18, 1842, in Paris, and by whom he has three children: Edwin C, 
Mabel A. and Ernest B. Mr. Earl is a member of the School Board, and has 
served as Township Trustee for three years. He is connected with the Con- 
gregational Church; is a member of Earl-Milliken Post, G. A. R., at "Wind- 
ham. In politics he is a Republican. 

MATTHEW P. HIGLEY, farmer, P. O. Windham, was born in Windham 
Township, this county, September 12, 1813, the second white child to see the 
light of day in the township, and the oldest living resident now that was 
born here, son of Benjamin and Sally (McCown) Higley, who were the parents 
of seven children: Robert M., Edward, Loren, Matthew P., Sarah, Hannah and 
Alfred M. Benjamin Higley was a native of Berkshire County, Mass., born 
in 1877; came to this township in 1811; served as a Colonel in the war of 
1812, and died about 1865, his wife having died several years previous. Our 
subject was raised on a farm, and made farming the principal occupation of 
his life. He was married September 25, 1839, to Miss Luna C. Robbins, born 
in Windham Township, this county, February 16, 1821, by whom he has had 
six children: Lodisa H., Philander R., Marion C, Benjamin P., Franklin 
(deceased) and Mack D. In 1869 Mr. Higley removed to Windham Center, 
still retaining his farming interests, however, for a few years. During the 
Rebellion he offered his services to the country, but they were not accepted. 
Politically he is a Republican, and though not an office-seeker he has held 
some of the minor township offices. He has been a member of the Congre- 
gational Church for forty-live years, and always took an active part in Sabbath- 
school work, until within a few years past, when deafness interfered with 
those duties. 

HENRY A. HIGLEY, farmer, P. O. Windham, was born in Becket, Mass., 
February 21, 1814, son of Joseph and Sybel (Cogswell) Higley, the former 
of whom was born April 25, 1774, in Berkshire County, Mass. The latter, also 
a native of Massachusetts, was born March 14, 1776. They were the parents 
of eight children: Sybel R., born September 21, 1804; Joseph N., born Sep- 
tember 6, 1806; Sarah M., born November 6, 1808; Ezra C, born August 22, 
1810; Elizabeth D., born April 22, 1812; Henry A., born February 21, 1814; 
John L., born January 17, 1816; Oliver B., born March 18, 1818. Joseph 
Higley was a farmer by occupation, an influential man, and an active church 
member. He died October 18, 1825; his widow December 1, 1864. Our sub- 
ject was brought by his parents to Windham Township, this county, when but 
two years of age, and here he grew to manhood, fully inured to the hardships 
of pioneer life. He has always followed agricultural pursuits. Mr. Higley 
was thrice married; first on May 7, 1840, to Mary E., daughter of James 
Seeley, born October 16, 1821, died October 4, 1866, leaving to his care one 
child — Henry J. (Charles O. died January 21, 1862). Our subject next mar- 
ried, November 7, 1867, Marion M. Udall, who died October 7, 1870, and by 
her he^had one son — Frank S. August 24, 1871, he then married Sarah Jos- 
lin, born in Mesopotamia, Ohio, April 6, 1825, daughter of Reuben and Sarah 
(Parker) Joslin, natives of Connecticut and Vermont, respectively, and early 
settlers of Trumbull County, Ohio, and who were the parents of eleven chii- 



WINDHAM TOWNSHIP. 919 

dren, of whom Mrs. Higley is the ninth. During the war Mr. Higley was 
one of the Township Trustees, and has held other offices of trust. He is a 
regular attendant of the Congregational Church, in which his wife is an active 
member. He has always been identified with the Republican party. 

JOHN L. HIGLEY, farmer, P. O. Windham, was born January 17, 1816, 
in Windham, son of Joseph Higley (see sketch of Henry A. Higley). He was 
married in 1841 to Miss Elizabeth K. Frary, born in Becket, Mass., in 1820, 
daughter of Joseph and Sarah (Gilford) Frary, and has a family of sis chil- 
dren. Mr. Higley is one of the self-made men of Windham Township, this 
county, and the property he has accumulated represents mauy hours of hard 
labor with his own hands. Though he took no active part in the late war of 
the Rebellion, he aided the soldiers' families at home. He has been a consist- 
ent member of the Congregational Church since 1841, and has also been an 
active worker in the Sabbath-school. Mr. Higley bears the reputation of being 
one of the substantial farmers of his township, which he has served as Justice 
of the Peace for one term and in other offices of trust. Politically he is iden- 
tified with the Republican party. 

OLIVER B. HIGLEY (deceased) was born in Windham Township, this 
county, March 18, 1818, son of Joseph and Sybel (Cogswell) Higley. He was 
twice married, on first occasion to Eunice West, who bore him one son— Mil- 
ton. His second marriage, June 14, 1849, was with Betsey Case, born in 
Pennsylvania June 4, 1827, daughter of Daniel and Phalley (Peck) Case, 
natives of New York. By this union there were five children: Charley, Mary, 
July, Clint and Edwin. Our svibject was reared on a farm and received a com- 
mon' school and academic education, and entered upon his career in life as a 
teacher. At the age of twenty- one he went to Iowa, and for several years 
taught school in the Western States. Returning to Ohio in 1851 he turned 
his attention to farming and sheep-raising. He soon had his farm under a 
state of cultivation which won for him the reputation of being a practical as 
well as a representative farmer of his township. His motto was to excel, and 
all his efforts were to that end. He filled several of the township offices, and, 
although not identified with any religious denomination, was for many years 
previous to his death a professed Christian, and took an active part in the 
support of religious and educational institutions, as far as his limited means 
would allow. He died February 19, 1866, and since his death the farm haa 
been successfully carried on by his widow with the assistance of her children. 
JESSE LYMAN, farmer, P. O. Mahoning, was born in Windham Town- 
ship, this county, November 29, 1813. His father, Jeremiah Lyman, a tanner 
by trade but in later years a farmer, was a native of Connecticut, and was 
reared in Massachusetts, where he lived with an uncle until 1811, when he 
came to this county and became one of the original owners of what is now 
Windham Township. On his way to his new home his wife, Rhoda Fuller, 
died, leaving to his care four children: Anna, Hulda, Milton and Laura, all of 
whom are now deceased. He subsequently married Hannah Sperry, of Con- 
necticut, who bore him two children: Hannah (deceased wife of A. West) and 
Jesse. Jeremiah Lyman was a member of the Presbyterian Church. He died 
August 19, 1845, his widow surviving him until 1863. The subject of this 
sketch was married, March 27, 1839, to Miss Dorcas Finch, born in Otis, Mass., 
September 9, 1821, and by her has two children living: Clara H., wife of C. 
L. Bryant (they had three children: Stowell, Vernie, died March 8, 1885, aged 
twelve years, and Belle, died March 7, 1885, aged sis years), and Lettie M., 
wife of E. J. Hill. Mr. Lyman, who has always been a farmer, resides on the 
old homestead. He has held several offices of trust in the township, and is 
energetic, enterprising and highly esteemed by the community. 



920 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

WILLIAM A. MESSENGER, farmer, P. O. Windham, was born March 
12, 1827, in Windham Township, this county. His father, William Anson 
Messenger, was a native of Massachusetts, born December 28, 1794, son of 
Ebenezer N. Messenger, one of the original owners of Windham Township, 
where he was drowned October 13, 1828, in a spring on his farm. He, Ebenezer 
N. , had married Miss Campbell, who bore him ten children: Ebenezer O., Nathan 
H., Polly, Sarah, Susan, Lucinda, William A., Benoni Y., Wells and Marvin. 
William Anson Messenger came to Windham Township, this county, in 1811, 
with his parents, in company with several other families. He was thrice mar- 
ried; first, February 24, 1819, to Desire Fowler, who died September 30,1822, 
leaving one daughter — Phebe F. (Mrs. West). His second marriage. May 31, 
1826, was with Edna Prentice, born May 2, 1798, died January 25, 1859. By 
this union there were four children: "\7illiam A. (our subject); Edna D., born 
October 12, 1831 (died in infancy); Edna A., born April 30, 1833, married 
N. Whitney, of Oberlin, Ohio, and died June 5, 1854; and Adna C, born May 
19, 1835, now a resident of Anderson County, Kan. Mr. Messenger married 
for his third wife, August 31, 1861, Lydia Cadwell, born April 6, 1833, and 
who is still living. He held nearly all the township ofifices, and was an influ- 
ential man, a liberal supporter of all public enterprises, and for many years 
was a consistent Christian and attendant at the Sabbath- schools. He died 
March 27, 1864. The subject of this sketch was married, September 26,1852, 
to Elizabeth Ann Chaffee, born in Becket, Mass., October 5, 1831, daughter of 
Newman and Elizabeth (Phelps) Chafifee, natives of Massachusetts, both now 
deceased. Three children were the fruit of this union: Arthur W., Hattie 
E., wife of P. B. Higley, and Nettie E., wife of F. B. Jagger. During the 
late war of the Rebellion Mr. Messenger enlisted in the lOO-days service in 
Company I, One Hundred and Seventy-tirst Ohio National Guard. He has 
always followed farming as an occupation and came to his present place in 
1867. Though at one time the Messengers were most numerous in W^indham 
Township there are now but two male representatives of this name in the 
township— our subject and his son. 

HENRY PALMER, farmer, P. O. Windham, was born in Palmyra Township, 
this county, June 25, 1820; son of Jesse and Amanda (Rogers) Palmer, the former 
of whom was born in Connecticut September 1, 1780, the latter in Connecticut 
November 7, 1782. They were married March 29, 1808, and had a family of 
eight children: Frederick, Caroline (deceased), James R., Laura A. (deceased), 
Clarissa (deceased), Milton, Henry and Harriet. Jesse Palmer, who was a 
farmer by occupation, a strict Christian man, died April 15, 1834, his widow 
surviving him until Aiigust 12, 1837. His parents dying when he was young, 
our subject worked as a farm-hand until he was twenty-five years of age. since 
when he has engaged in farming on his own account, and has the reputation 
of being enterprising and energetic, and is esteemed for his many good qual- 
ities. During the late war of the Rebellion he enlisted in Company I, One 
Hundred and Seventy-first Ohio National Guard, and participated in the 
engagement at Cynthiana, Ky. He was married, September 11, 1845, to 
Rebecca Turner, born in Windham June 28, 1817, daughter of Levi Alford, 
and widow of Samuel Turner, who was born August 1, 1810, married Septem- 
ber 10, 1834, and died December 17, 1842. (By Mr. Turner she had three chil- 
dren: Joseph L., Edna R. and Edward W.) To Mr. and Mrs. Palmer has 
been born one daughter— Emogene, born November 21, 1849, now the wife of 
J. Ramsdell, of Erie County, Ohio. Mr. Palmer and wife have been consist- 
ent members of the Methodist Episcopal Church for nearly forty-two years, 
and have also taken an active part in Sabbath- school work. 



WINDHAM TOWNSHIP. 9-1 



SAMUEL A PARDEE, farmer, P. O. Windham, was born in Addison 
County, Vt., September 10, 1829; son of Benjamin F. and Harriet (Perkins) 
Pardee the former of whom, a hatter by trade, was a native of Connecticut, 
the latter of Vermont. They were parents of ^^^ children: Chauncey A 
born July 1. 1816; Benjamin F., born August 27, 1818; Marcus L born Octo- 
ber 19 1820; Azro A., born November 6, 1823, and Samuel A. Benjamin F 
Pardee died February 28, 1830, when our subject was not a year old, and 
when he was seven years of age his mother married Samuel H. Pardee (a 
brother c,f her deceased husband), who was elected County Assessor i^ l^.^o 
and eventually became State Representative from Portage County, and ^ith him 
our subject lived till he reached his majority. His mother died May 1 18bb. 
Samuel A. Pardee was brought to this county by his parents m 1835. He 
acquired a common school education, and early in life learned the carpenter 
and joiner trade, which he followed more or less for fifteen years, since when 
he has given his entire attention to farming. He was married July ^ IS^I; 
to Diadama Owen, born in Lebanon Springs, N. Y^, December 30 1828 and 
has live children: Salmon A., civil engineer in California; ^\i ham C. a 
physician in Warren County, Ohio; Ella A. ; Howai^d L and Silas O. Mr^ 
Pardee, with the exception of five years, has lived m the same neighborhood 
for forty-eight years. During the |war of the Rebellion he served m the 
100 days service, enlisting in Company I, One Hundred and Seventy-first 
Ohio National Guards. He has held several offices of trust m the township. 

Politically he is a Democrat. . t.t lu • i Tf,.AA 

ALT AN Y RXIDD, farmer, P. O. Windham, is a son of Nathaniel Kudd, 
who was born in Becket, Mass., May 17, 1795, and came to Windham Town- 
ship, this county, in 1816, purchasing land on which he made some improve- 
ment. The following year he returned to his native State f„^ J^f rried, Janu^ 
ary 15, 1817, Sophia Messenger, born May 22, 1797. In 1818 they returned 
in company with Xenophon Wadsworth and wife to this township, making the 
trip of about 500 miles with a team of horses and oxen in six weeks entered 
upon pioneer life, and in a few weeks had erected the log-cabm jbich was to 
be their home for so many years, and where were born to them five children: 
William B., Alonzo M., Samuel V., Alvan V. and an infant all of whom 
are now deceased but our subject. Nathaniel Rudd was an influential man 
in his day, always first in any enterprise tending to the improvment of the 
county and a liberal supporter of its public institutions. He was Captain ot 
the State militia and also served a short time the war of 1812. tie was a 
Whig in politics. He filled several offices of trust m Windham Townshp, 
was an active member of the Congregational Church and a leader m Sabbath - 
school work for several years previous to his death, which occurred Decembei 
19, 1844. His widow still survives him. The subject of this sketch was bom 
Auo-ust 15, 1830, in Windham and still resides on the fai-m which has always 
been his home. His father dying when he was but fourteen years of age his 
educational advantages were limited, but by reading and ^bservation he has 
acquired an average education. Having a taste for live-stock, he e^^ly b^^ame 
the possessor of some Shorthorn cattle and has gradually increased bi^ W 
till it is now one of the finest in the county, and he is considei;ed one ot the 
oldest cattle-breeders in the same, having made his start m ^»0f ^ J^J 
served in several of the minor township offices. During the war of the Rebel- 
lion he enlisted in Company I, One Hundred and Seventy-first Ohio National 
Guards, and served 100 days. Since he was fourteen years of age he has 
been identified with the Congregational Church. February 16, 1854, he 
was united in marriage with Miss Irene Franklin, born m Lewis Count), N. 



922 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Y., July 2, 1833, daughter of Alonzo and Dianthia (Torrence) Franklin, natives 
of Massachusetts and New York respectively, and early settlers of Cuyahoga 
County, Ohio, the former of whom is now deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Rudd 
have been born four children: Willis A., Orton N., Emma S. and Ann D. 

PHILIP RUSSELL, farmer, P. O. Windham, was born in Madison 
County, N. Y., October 25, 1811, son of Philip and Nancy (Sanford) Russell, 
natives of Connecticut and Madison County, N, Y., respectively. They were 
parents of thirteen children, of whom seven are now living: Nancy, Philip, 
William, Daniel, Madison, Webster and Delia, latter wife of Ira S. Cutts, of 
Windham Township, this county. Philip Russell, Sr., a carpenter and joiner 
by trade, but by occupation a farmer, came to this county in 1815, and located 
in Nelson Township, but removed to Windham Township in 1822. He died in 
Windham, July 1, 1879, aged ninety- three years; his widow, October 8, 1882. 
Our subject early learned the carpenter and joiner trade, though farming has 
been his principal occupation. He has been twice married, first to Sally E. 
Jagger, born October 5, 1815, in Windham, who bore him six children: Sarah 
E., Elmina, Alanson R. , Augusta, Abby C. and Daniel J. Mrs. Russell died 
in April, 1877, and on May 3, 1881, Mr. Russell married Margaret Owen, born 
in Ontario, Canada, June 20, 1857, daughter of Anson and Antoinette (Bliss) 
Owen, natives of Portage County, Ohio, and New York, respectively. Mr. 
Russell is an energetic, enterprising and successful farmer, having his farm 
under a high state of cultivation. He takes deep interest in all public 
improvements, and has filled several offices of trust in the township. In pol- 
itics he has ever been a Republican. 

EBENEZER S. SHAW, druggist, Windham, was born in Cuyahoga 
County, Ohio, October 6, 1851, son of James and Sarah A. (Seward) Shaw. 
The former was born in Ashland County, Ohio, in 1808, and after graduating 
at the Western Reserve College and Allegheny Theological Seminary at Alle- 
gheny, Penn. , was regularly ordained a minister of the Gospel at Chillicothe, 
Ohio. He removed to Windham in 1859, where he served as pastor of the 
Congregational Church until a few weeks prior to his demise in April, 1875. 
James Shaw had been twice married, first to Harriet Metcalf, who bore him 
one son — James M. , a graduate of Western Reserve College, Hudson, Ohio, 
and Lane Seminary, Cincinnati, Ohio. He went to China in 1874, as a mis- 
sionary, and there died in June, 1876. His widow and one child still reside 
in China. James Shaw's second wife was Sarah A. Seward, born in New York 
in 1817, and brought to Summit County, Ohio, when an infant. She is now 
residing with her only son, Ebenezer S. The subject of this sketch passed 
the year 1876 attending the Dental College at Cincinnati, Ohio. In 1S79 he 
opened a drug store at Windham, in partnership with Dr. Longhead, and the 
year following graduated at the Dental College, Ann Arbor, Mich. His part- 
ner having retired he carries on the drug business in connection with den- 
tistry. He is a member of the Congregational Church and Librarian of the 
Windham Circulating Library. 

NELSON C. SMITH, farmer, P. O. Windham, was born December 1, 
1826, in North Becket, Mass., son of Champion and Achsah (Little) Smith, 
natives of Massachusetts, born in 1803 and 1806, respectively, parents of five 
children: Nelson C, Elmira, Martha, Mary (deceased) and Leona. They came 
to this county in 1834, and the original homestead tract consisted of seventy 
acres, to which they added until it contained 150 acres, and from a state of 
nature was gradually placed under a high state of cultivation. Champion 
Smith died June 6, 1881, his wife having preceded him January 2, 1879. The- 
subject of this sketch was married December 10, 1857, to Mary E. Ford, born 



WINDHAM TOWNSHIP. 923 

in Trumbull County, Ohio, March 2, 1831, daughter of Augustin and Susan- 
nah (Krahl) Ford, natives of New York and Pennsylvania, respectively, and 
early settlers of Trumbull County, Ohio. To this union was born one daugh- 
ter — Alice Blanche, born November 8, 1863, and married, January 4, 1883, to 
Arthur Roper, of Nelson, Ohio, by whom she has one child — Esther Beuno, 
born January 4, 1884. The principal occupation of our subject has been 
farming, thou.gh for two or three years he peddled jewelry. He offered his 
services two or three times in his country's defense, but was not accepted on 
account of the loss of one of his eyes. He has filled the office of Constable 
three terms. For nearly twenty years he has been actively connected with the 
F. & A. M. and I. O. O. F. fraternities. As a rule the Smith family have 
been Republican in politics. 

JUSTIN E. SNOW, farmer, P. O. Windham, was born May 10, 1828, in 
Windham Township, this county. His father, Erastus Snow, was born in 
Connecticut in 1782, and came to Windham Township, this county, in 1813. 
He was a prominent farmer, strictly honest in all his dealings, a consistent 
member of the Congregational Church. Erastus Snow was first married to 
Anna Alford, who died May 23, 1828, and by her had foui- children, two 
attaining majority: Anna L. and Justin E. For his second wife he married 
Polly Hawley, who bore him five children: Frank, Sarah, Lucretia, Francis 
and an infant. Erastus Snow died February 23, 1850; his widow January 1, 
1870. Our subject, who was reared on a farm, received a common school edu- 
cation, and early in life learned shoe-making, which occupation he followed 
for twenty-five years, part of the time in Pennsylvania. He married. May 22, 
1850, Eunice JL. Rockwell, of Pennsylvania, who died February 16, 1855, 
leaving to his care one daughter — Elda, wife of Washington Beach, of Mis- 
souri (have three children: Nora, Cora and Millie). Mr. Snow was married 
the second time September 27, 1857, to Fanny H. Watson, of Pennsylvania, 
born May 22, 1833, at Appledore, County of Kent, England, daughter of 
George and Sarah (Fullagur) Watson, and by this union was born November 
13, 1863, one child — Linda L. Mr. Snow served in Company I, One Hun- 
dred and Seventy-first Ohio National Guards, during the late war of the Rebel- 
lion. He returned to this county in 1876, and has since devoted himself to 
farming. He is a member of Garrettsville Lodge F. & A. M., Portage Lodge 
I. O. O. F., and Ravenna Encampment. In politics he is a stanch Republican. 

HENRY B. WALDEN, farmer, P. O. Windham, was born May 8, 1832, in 
Windham Township, this county, on the place that has always been his home. 
His father, Joshua Walden, who came to Ohio in 1818, locating in Windham 
Township, this county, where he spent the remainder of his days, was mar- 
ried to Esther Wilmot, born in Connecticut in 1798 (she was the widow of 
Harry Blair, by whom she had one son — Orrin H. Blair — who attained his 
majority, now deceased). To our subject's parents were born two children: 
Caroline (deceased wife of Seth Strickland) and Henry B. Joshua Walden 
was a prominent farmer, and by industry and economy amassed a large prop- 
erty. He died October 4, 1865. His widow is still living. Our subject in 
early life was employed like farmer boys of the present day, and farming has 
been his principal occupation. He was married December 24, 1864, to Lovisa 
H. Higley, born August 15, 1841, daughter of M. P. Higley, and by this 
union are four children: Frank H., Luna E., Delia A. and Carrie M. Dur- 
ing the war of the Rebellion Mr. Walden enlisted in Company I, One Hun- 
dred and Seventy-first Ohio National Guards. He has served in several oflices 
of honor and trust in his township. He is a member of Earl Milliken Post, 
G. A. R. In politics a Republican. 



924 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

ISAAC N. WILCOX, fanner, P. O. Windham, was born near Cuyahoga 
Falls, Summit County, Ohio, December 24, 1833. His father, Capt. Isaac 
Wilcox, was born in Berlin, Conn., May 17, 1779; married first December 26, 
1800, to Lucy North, who bore him ten children. In 1809 he came with an 
ox-team to Stowe, Summit Co., Ohio; served in the war of 1812, and eventually 
became one of the most influential men of that township, by industry and 
economy accumulating quite a large property. He was married on the second 
occasion April 23, 1822, to Mary Kandall, of Washington, Columbiana Co., 
Ohio, and a native of Baltimore, Md. , where she was born October 18, 1792, 
and by whom he had six children, our subject being the fifth. Capt. Wilcox 
was a prominent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church for many years, 
and died September 15, 1847; his widow surviving him until March 1, 1883, 
when she died at the advanced age of ninety years. Our subject was raised 
on the farm, and received a common school and academic education. At the 
age of nineteen years ho entered upon his career in life as a teacher, and con- 
tinued in that profession, more or less, for fifteen years; some of his labors 
in that capacity being in the Windham Academy, and in the graded schools 
of Akron, Ohio. For two years he was one of the County School Examiners, 
and at various times has taken an active part, as instructor and lecturer, in the 
County Teachers' Institute. He was married May 26, 1857, to Miss Melissa S. 
Scott, born in Freedom Township, Ohio, February 24, 1836, daughter of 
Elijah Scott, late of Eootstown. Thev have three children: Ida M., born July 
17, 1858; Scott S., born June 14, 1864; Wesley W., born August 31, 1881. 
About 1858 Mr. Wilcox came to Windham, this county, and has owned a farm 
most of the time since, upon which he and family have resided, and although 
he has never given his entire attention to agricultural pursuits, the manage- 
ment of his farm has been under his direct superintendence. He at one time 
owned an interest in a coal mine in Coshocton County, and for some time was 
the Secretary of the company, but owing to an accident at that time, he dis- 
posed of his interest in that enterprise, and resigned his position. In answer 
to the first call for troops in April, 1861, he offered his services and enlisted 
in Company F, Seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served three months as 
Second Lieutenant. He afterward, in company with Capt. Prior, of Kavenna, 
raised a cavalry company which was attached to the Sixth Ohio Volunteer 
Cavalry, and served as First Lieutenant until near the close of the war, when 
he received a Captain's commission. He is now Quarter-Master of Earl-Milli- 
ken Post, No. 333, G. A. R., of Windham. Since 1872 he has been a stanch 
advocate of the principles of the Democratic party, of which he is Committee- 
man and one of the leaders in this township. He has, at different times, 
been correspondent for Eastern papers, and several of the weekly periodicals 
of Portage County. 

THE WOODWORTH FAMILY OF WINDHAM. There is a tradition in 
this family that some time near the close of the seventeenth century, in En- 
gland, a gentleman named Wood married a lady named Worth, but instead of 
adopting his name, they blended both names, thus originating the name 
" Woodworth." Two sons by this union came to America, one settling in 
Brooklyn, N. Y., the other in New Lebanon, Conn. The grandsons of the 
latter were young men at the outbreak of the Pvevolutionary struggle, in which 
some of them served; others took part in the war of 1812. Joseph Wood- 
worth participated in the noted New Jersey retreat, and in the battles of 
Monmouth, Princeton and Trenton, wintering at Valley Forge. He was with 
Wayne at Stony Point, and served under Gates in the campaign preceding the 
surrender of Burgoyne. He was also present at other of the stirring scenes 



WINDHAM TOWNSHIP. 925 

of that war. Some portion of his service was in the regiment of Col. Tilden, 
late of Hiram, this county. After the war he moved to Schoharie County, N. 
Y., and about 1816 to Madison County in the same State. He was blessed 
with a very large family of children, of whom fifteen lived to adult years, and 
to raise families. Late in life he removed with some of his sons to Catta- 
raugus County, N. Y., where he died in 18-12 in his eighty-fifth year. Two of 
his sons, William and Thomas J., became residents of Windham. William 
and family are noticed in an accompanying sketch. 

THOMAS J. WOODWORTH (deceased!, a younger brother of William, 
was born at Rensselaerville, Schoharie Co., N. Y., June 9, 1808. His parents 
removed to Madison County, N. Y. , when he was about eight years old. When 
about nine he was afflicted with what was known as the putrid epidemic, and 
of a large number of cases in that region, he was the only one who survived. 
But from its effects he never recovered, his hearing being permanently affected 
and in other respects he suffered. Growing up amid the rugged activities of 
pioneer life, he was thrown upon his own resources, and was thus trained to 
habits of persevering industry and self-reliance. Having secured such intel- 
lectual training as was afforded by the district school, he entered Oneida Con- 
ference Seminary, Cazenovia, N. Y., where he spent some time in study. His 
name appears on the records of that institution for 1829. He was dissuaded 
from entering the legal profession, which he had contemplated doing, on 
account of his imperfect hearing. Some three years were then spent in the 
employ of Col. Hezekiah Sage, of Sullivan, a part of the time as foreman on 
his extensive farm. One fall he sowed 300 bushels of seed wheat by hand. 
With the means thus obtained in the employ of Col. Sage he made the first 
payment in the purchase of a farm in Fenner in the same county. In 1833 he 
was united in marriage with Sarah S. Wager, daughter of Philip Wager, Esq., 
of Sullivan. Her father was in early life a pioneer preacher of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church He joined the itinerancy in 1790. In 1792 he was one 
of the eight ministers who formed the first New England Conference as organ- 
ized by Bisho]D Asbury, with Jesse Lee as Presiding Elder. He was the first min- 
ister of this conference sent into the States of Maine, New Hampshire and 
Rhode Island. He located about 1800. He was brother of Rev. David Wager, of 
Columbia County, N. Y., and of Henry Wager, father of Hon. David Wager, 
law partner of Horatio Seymour, and grandfather of Gen. Henry Wager Hal- 
leck. Immediately after his marriage Mr. W^oodworth removed to his Fenner 
farm. Twenty-six years were passed here in the enjoyment of the respect of 
the community, shown by the many positions of honor and trust he held in 
township and county; among them Commissioner of Deeds and Magistrate for 
several years. One incident of his life exemplifies his indomitable energy 
and perseverance very forcibly. When he had nearly paid for his farm and 
began to feel in somewhat easy circumstances, he undersigned a friend and 
relative to a large amount, and by so doing lost heavily and was plunged into 
debt so deeply that his friends despaired of his saving his farm. But he at 
once sold off everything except the bare necessaries for farming purposes, and 
with an industry that knew no flagging, set to work to pay off the debt, a task 
which took more than ten of the best years of his life to accomplish. In 
1859 he sold his farm and removed to Cazenovia in the same county, and from 
there to Windham, this county, in 1860. His deafness increasing, he led a 
more retired life in Windham than in former years. Home was the most 
attractive place to him and to make it enjoyable he gave his best energies. 
He was a keen observer of men and things, and all his actions and words 
evinced a sound judgment which was held in high esteem by all who knew 



926 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

him. From the days of his majority he was a Democrat in politics, voting 
for Buchanan, but supporting Lincoln in 1860, and ever after the Republican 
party with zeal. During the Rebellion he was a member of the War Com- 
mittee of Windham, and did what lay in his power to support the X^nion 
cause. Mr. Woodworth was of an inquiring, active cast of mind, was a great 
reader during the intervals from more active duties, always seeking informa- 
tion. His knowledge of the political history of our country was extensive. 
He delighted in discussion, and his sword of argument was edged with a 
satire and wit which rendered it keen and cutting. Though jSrm and decided 
in his convictions, he extended to others in the sphere of thought the suffrage 
he secured to himself. In early life he became a Methodist, he while here 
holding a certificate of membership from the Methodist Episcopal Cburch, of 
Cazenovia, N. Y. Thorough honesty was his admiration, and for hypocrisy 
he entertained the highest contempt. To be more than he seemed rather than 
less was his highest aim. These traits were exemplified in his character. In 
business he was successful in spite of his misfortunes, and he accumulated a 
handsome competency, far in advance of those whose dishonesty robbed him 
of years of toil. To be a good farmer, according to his ideal, was his highest 
happiness as an occupation. On coming to Windham he bought Lot 33, then 
known as the Willis Strickland farm. It was ever after his residence. He 
made his home in Fenner an attractive place, and his Windham home will 
long bear the impress of his energy and love of order. He died suddenly of 
paralysis, January 30, 1884. 

HON. E. S. WOODWORTH, son of Thomas J. Woodworth, was born in 
Fenner, N. Y. , August 24, 1841. His boyhood years were spent on the farm 
and in the district schools of the neighborhood. In 1858 he entered Oneida 
Conference Seminary, and completed a three years' course in 1860. In the 
winter of 1 858-59 he taught his first term of school in Lenox, N. Y. , and so 
well did he succeed that the next winter he was employed to take charge of 
one of the principal school in Cazenovia, the village of his home, his parents 
having moved to this place in 1859. In July, 1860, after leaving school, he 
came to W^indham, Ohio, his parents having made their home there in May 
previous. He at once began labor on their farm. In the winter of 1860-61 
he taught in Ravenna, and for many succeeding winters in different schools of 
Windham. In 1862 he spent some time in school at Hiram, thinking to enter 
the Junior Class of Michigan University in 1863, but the events of the war 
and other circumstances changed that plan, as well as his ideal for life-work 
— the study of law. In 1864 he was a member of Company I, One Hundred 
and Seventy-first Regiment Ohio National Guards, and in the battle of Kel- 
lar's Bridge, Ky., he was severely wounded by a ball shattering his right leg 
below the knee. On the morning of this battle he volunteered at the request 
of Gen. Hobson to gain what knowledge was possible of the situation of the 
Rebel force under John Morgan at Cynthiana, some two miles away, who 
earlier in the day had an engagement with a small detachment of our men 
under Col. Garis. He was to advise Col. Garis to fall back to Kellar's Bridge 
if practicable. However, it was found that our force there had already been 
forced to surrender, and Woodworth, who succeeded in getting within the 
enemy's picket line and almost in the town, was happy to get out much 
faster then he went in, after a close range encounter with a calvary- man who 
followed him and after exchanging several shots got the benefit of a ball from 
Woodworth's revolver. On reporting to Gen. Hobson he received his thanks 
as well as much credit by all who knew the circumstances of the exploit. 
Being much exhausted on his return to his company the officers advised him 



WINDHAM TOWNSHIP. 927 

not to go into the right that was commencing, but he insisted on going, and 
was wounded as stated. With the wounded from this battle he was taken to 
Covington, Ky. , where he remained nearly four months before he was able to 
be removed home. He refused to have his leg amputated when advised to do 
so by the post surgeons, and so saved his limb. In 1871 he married Belle C, 
daughter of William Rudd, late of Sullivan, Ashland Co., Ohio, who, while 
a member of the Forty -second Ohio (Garfield's regiment), received a wound at 
Champion Hills, from which he died. The William Rudd family at present 
reside at McMinnville, Tenn. The children of this union are Nellie E., born 
October 20, 1873; Glenn R., born January 29, 1877, and Clyde W., born 
November 26, 1880, but who died March 19, 1885. He was an attractive child 
who won all hearts. Mr. Woodworth is in politics an ardent Republican, and 
enjoys the remembrance that his first vote was cast for Garfield on his first 
election to Congress, and his first Presidential vote was for Lincoln on his 
second election. He has held many positions of trust, among them Justice 
of the Peace some eight years, which position he resigned on his election to the 
Legislature in 1881. In that body he was esteemed for his strict and assid- 
uous attention to the duties of his position, and for a new member was more 
highly honored than is usual by being placed in important positions on com- 
mittees. In the County Convention of 1888 he lacked only seven votes of a 
re-nomination. Like many others of the Sixty-fifth Ohio General Assembly 
he 8ufi"ered because of his vote favoring the " Scott Law " and kindred tem- 
perance legislation. However, his friends believe he has nothing to regret, 
for even in defeat is sometimes high honor. He has been an active worker polit- 
ically for several years, and in the campaign of 1884 served his party as mem- 
ber of the Republican County Central and Executive Committees. Mr. Wood- 
worth lives in the enjoyment of an attractive farm-home, made so by the joint 
labor of his father and himself, he having added to his paternal acres. He is 
at present Senior Vice-Commander of Earl-Milliken Post, No. 333, G. A. R. , 
and is a member of Silver Creek Lodge, F. & A. M. He is a member of the 
Congregational Church of Windham, in the Sabbath-school of which he is an 
active worker. Wherever known he enjoys the confidence and esteem of all 
with whom he comes in contact, and in all the relations of life he sustains 
such a character as to stand high in the esteem and honor of the people of 
Portage County. 

SAMUEL YALE, farmer, P. O. Windham, was born September 15, 1844, 
in Windham Township, this county, son of Edmund and Nancy (Russell) Yale, 
the former born in 1806 in Mahoning County, Ohio, and the latter in 1809 in 
Hamilton County, N. Y. They had a family of five children: Edwin, Celia, 
Sanford S. (died in the army during the late war of the Rebellion), Samuel 
and an infant (deceased). Edmund Yale was a good farmer, a thorough busi- 
ness man and an influential citizen. He died in 1878, and his loss was not 
only felt in his family but by the whole community. His widow still survives. 
Our subject was reared on a farm, his educational advantages being limited to 
the common schools of his township. He was married September 5, 1867, to 
Miss Savilla S. Shibley, born in Windham Township, this county, March 30, 
1848, and by her he has three children: Edmond, Alta C. and Edith A. Mr. 
Yale has made farming the principal occupation of his life, having no special- 
ty but growing the usual crops and handling stock. He is a consistent mem- 
ber of the Congregational Church, energetic and enterprising. Mr. Yale is 
one of the substantial men of this township. 



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